Is the Upgrade Worth It? episode artwork

EPISODE · Jul 1, 2026 · 9 MIN

Is the Upgrade Worth It?

from The Craft of Custom · host Paul LaRoche & Emily Aborn

Premium appliances, smart home systems, luxury finishes, high-end HVAC, the options during a custom build are endless... and the price tags can be too! But which upgrades actually deliver long-term value, and which ones are just expensive, shiny distractions? In this episode, Paul gets honest about what he recommends without hesitation, what depends entirely on how you actually live, and what he actively steers clients away from. This conversation helps you separate genuine investments from overpriced hype. If you're trying to figure out where to spend and where to save, consider this your insider's guide to making decisions that matter most. Listen to learn: Which upgrades Paul recommends to nearly every client based on proven long-term payoffWhere mid-tier options perform just as well as premium versionsHow to evaluate smart home systems and HVAC upgrades for your actual lifestyleThe luxury features that sound appealing but don't hold up or get used as often as you might think Connect with LR3 DevelopmentEmail: [email protected]: 603.320.0337Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3DevelopmentWebsite: www.LR3Development.comAbout Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLCArchitecture and design are in Paul’s DNA.When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began.After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in.After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back!A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire. About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & PodcasterEmily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help. Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

Premium appliances, smart home systems, luxury finishes, high-end HVAC, the options during a custom build are endless... and the price tags can be too! But which upgrades actually deliver long-term value, and which ones are just expensive, shiny distractions? In this episode, Paul gets honest about what he recommends without hesitation, what depends entirely on how you actually live, and what he actively steers clients away from. This conversation helps you separate genuine ...

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Is the Upgrade Worth It?

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This episode is 9 minutes long.

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This episode was published on July 1, 2026.

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Premium appliances, smart home systems, luxury finishes, high-end HVAC, the options during a custom build are endless... and the price tags can be too! But which upgrades actually deliver long-term value, and which ones are just expensive, shiny...

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