Day in the life of
Home Builder – Jeremy J. Gosnell
A typical day usually starts with a review of what needs to be done on a current project. Usually, this is an accounting of materials. We work closely with architects and material suppliers to make accurate material estimates but there is typically breakage or a loss of materials. For example, lumber is often warped and needs replaced. So usually off the bat, we are placing a material order for delivery. This is why most lumberyards and stores like Lowes open at 7 am. They can have materials on-site by 8-9 am.
Typically we are consulting drawings along with a laundry list of emails to ensure we are following both architectural specifications and owner wishes. We use Google docs and iPads so everyone can keep up to date on what we are trying to achieve.
Any building project is subject to multiple inspections and often we are coordinating with electricians and plumbers, while also meeting with building inspectors. Builders have a close working relationship with both area health departments (for septic and sewer) and zoning boards, to ensure you aren’t violating zoning regulations.
Many people underestimate the amount of time builders work with beauracratic agencies, which often make the rules about what can be built and where. These include homeowners associations that have strict building codes. This can eat up a whole day or more on a big project.
Also, builders need to be tech-savvy as most communications today are done electronically and most plans are submitted in 3D, realistic viewing. Also, most clients want daily photo updates if they don’t live locally. We’ve used everything from 3D cameras to drones to provide clients live updates of their project, as well as meet the needs of inspection agencies.
Pros
The pros would be that no two days are ever the same. You get to do a wide variety of things and every day is literally a learning opportunity.
Cons
That pro is also a con because you really can’t settle as a builder. Building codes and building styles change rather quickly, especially as the building world has adopted environmentally friendly buildings. Clients, especially wealthy ones, don’t just want a home, they want a home they can feel confident is modern and not overtly impacting the environment in a negative way. You have to be very open to change and growth and many builders stagnate, which can be a downfall. Also, other builders attempt to specify something that is trendy but loses its luster quickly. A builder I know tried to capitalize on the tiny home trend by mastering a specific type of tiny home and dedicating his whole firm to only that. The trend didn’t last and now he is out of business and in a mountain of debt.
