Behind The Build Podcast

The selections you make today will shape how your home looks, feels, and functions for years to come.  In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven are joined by Ferguson’s Brock Wiggins and Amy McCarty to share expert insight on navigating the selections process with confidence.  From cabinetry and kitchen layouts to lighting, hardware, warranties, and today’s most popular design trends, you’ll learn how thoughtful choices can help create a home that reflects your style, supports your lifestyle, and maximizes your investment. Whether you’re preparing for your selections appointment or simply gathering inspiration, this episode offers valuable guidance to help bring your vision to life. Because the best homebuilding decisions are the ones you’re prepared to make. Tune in. Take notes. Let’s build your legacy, together. Chapters 0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 0:16 – Welcome special guests with our partners from Ferguson, Brock Wiggins, Area Sales Manager and Amy McCarty, Interior Designer. 02:10 – Today’s topic, Ferguson Partnership & Products – Who is Ferguson? 05:34 – What Ferguson products are offered in our showroom’s selections for your new home? 06:58 – Defining cabinetry levels (price point)? 07:30 – Cabinet construction, quality & craftsmanship 10:34 – Cabinet styles & colors to personalize your home 15:07 – Your cabinet warranty 16:52 – What features are currently trending?  18:00 – Mitchell Homes’ selections process - What’s the path for our future homeowners? 19:00 – Custom price requests - kitchen layout review process dos & don’ts 30:53 – Behind the Build Podcast is brought to you by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner 31:24 – What’s the most expensive kitchen you’ve ever designed?  31:47 – Tell us what you’re comfortable spending and we’ll make sure you fall in love with what’s in your price range 39:45 – Bathrooms + vanity recommendations  45:00 – Hardware “Jewelry for your cabinetry” 47:25 – Words of wisdom to future homeowners  55:00 – Maxim Lighting and Moen quality, craftsmanship, and wide variety of selections in all price points 1:02:00 – Thanks for joining! We’ll see you next time. Message us with questions, topics you want us to cover next, and if you’d like a Mitchell Homies T-shirt!   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/ Get fast answers to your questions: Email: [email protected] Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

Building a new home on your land comes with a lot of excitement… and lot of misconceptions. In this episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven sit down with special guests, Janet Turner and Tucker Farinholt to unpack questions and concerns that came directly from our team at Mitchell Homes – All to help guide you forward with more clarity, confidence, and realistic expectations as you consider building on your land.  If you’re considering building, this episode is full of honest insight that can save you time, stress, and money along the way. Tune in. Take notes. Let’s build your legacy together. Chapters 0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 0:54 – Welcome special guests, Janet Turner, VP of Customer Lender Relations and Tucker Farinholt, Operations Support Manager 02:14 – Today’s topic, Common Misconceptions 05:54 – Money & Financing Realities 06:08 – What closing costs MH actually pays versus what you’ll be responsible for at closing (prepaids, points, owner’s title, etc.)  10:00 – Why your lot equity doesn’t lower the price of the house or your loan amount 12:20 – Qualifying for maximum financing so you can bring $0 to closing — and why that doesn’t always work  14:28 – Why you can’t change your job or finances once your loan is approved  17:51 – How placeholder allowances (for lot prep, well, septic, extra foundation, etc.) really work and why they can increase 20:50 – The realistic cost of basements and why other builders’ advertised prices can be misleading  23:00 – Why basement price adjustments due to site conditions are normal (not surprise price hikes) 25:00 – Site Work & Lot Preparation 25:24 – What’s actually included in the base price and why lot prep, utilities, sidewalks, and final grade usually aren’t 28:16 – Why we can help with land prep and utilities, but you have to specifically ask for it 36:25 – Why “cutting the lot” doesn’t always save you money on the foundation 43:05 – Final grade, seed, and straw: Who’s responsible and why it matters for county bonds and inspections 48:00 – Not every lot is buildable. The extra work and costs you should know about early 50:45 – Behind the Build Podcast is brought to you by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner 53:29 – The Real Timeline of Building a Home 53:36 – Why it takes longer than it looks (even if the house seems to go up in about 3 months) 56:28 – The key meetings that will require you to take time off work 59:00 – Moving logistics: Why you usually can’t wait until the new house is finished if you’re demolishing your current home 1:04:30 – Customizations, Plans & Expectations 1:04:38 – Why just telling your salesperson or superintendent something verbally isn’t enough  1:08:26 – Why we can’t copy another builder’s plans exactly  1:10:25 – Why online photos can be misleading about what’s included in your base home 1:12:08 – How room sizes and ceiling heights feel very different in real life than they do on paper  1:15:46 – The challenge when customers say “just figure it out” on custom requests  1:23:47 – Comparisons & “Do-It-Yourself” Ideas 1:23:56 – Why you can’t always compare your build to your neighbor’s house or a previous customer’s home  1:25:27 – “My husband is in construction and can do some of the work” why that’s often not possible 1:29:08 – Warranty, Maintenance & After You Move In 1:29:22 – How warranty walks actually work (and why we need a list of concerns first) 1:30:09 – What we will and won’t repair after closing (drywall cracks vs. repainting the whole house) 1:30:57 – Who’s responsible for HVAC filters and long-term yard maintenance  1:33:25 – The Sales & Consultation Process 1:33:32 – A consultation is not a commitment — it’s perfectly fine to just be exploring your options   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/ Get fast answers to your questions: Email: [email protected] Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

Building your home should feel exciting, not uncertain. That’s why Behind the Build Podcast exists. From day one, this podcast was created to guide you through the questions that matter so you can move forward feeling confident, not overwhelmed.  These questions came directly from you. Just to name a few - we went deep on the ones that shape your experience:  -What does the real cost look like? -What’s included and what isn’t? -How customizable is “fully customizable,” really? -What should you be comparing when choosing a builder? -What tends to surprise homeowners once the process is underway? -How do financing, land, and timing come together? This isn’t surface level. It’s the kind of clarity that changes how you approach your entire new home build. Tune in. Take notes. Let’s build your legacy together. Chapters 0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 05:38 – If I don't own land already, why should I go with Mitchell? 06:58 – Reference: Purchasing Land 101 episode 09:01 – What areas do you build in? 12:19 – What should buyers be paying attention to when comparing on your lot builders in the market? 17:39 – Do you sell land? 22:10 – Do you help with deed transfer? 22:33 – Are you a modular builder? (or stick-built/custom builder?) 24:38 – What is the average all-in cost? 25:56 – Reference: Customer Responsibilities episode 33:43 – What is included? What does the price cover? 36:42 – Are wells and septic included? / Does the price online include well and septic? / In a scenario where water and sewer connections are needed to public sources, who holds responsibility for connection? 42:01 – Can you do pools? 44:07 – Do you do sidewalks? Paved driveways? 44:34 – Are your homes customizable? / Can I customize my home? 53:11 – How much can we customize our floor plan? 54:53 – Episode is sponsored by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner 55:25 – Can we add an in-law suite? 56:23 – Do you do duplexes or barndominiums? 57:40 – What options do you have for age-in-place needs or disability accommodations? 58:32 – Can I purchase my refrigerator, washer and dryer along with the other appliances? 1:00:06 – Can we supply appliances, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, etc.? If we supply, would Mitchell Homes install? 1:05:20 – Are you able to work with HOAs & HOA requirements? Is it going to cost me more to build HOA compliant? 1:09:40 – What is the build process? How long does it take to build? 1:11:15 – Reference: Homebuyer Roadmap to Success episode 1:11:29 – Where do buyers usually get surprised in the build process? What part of building on your own land do people underestimate the most? 1:15:33 – What am I responsible for in the process? Can you guys just handle everything? 1:17:14 – Can me/my friend/family member do some of the work? (Finishing/cabinets/flooring) 1:18:32 – Apply For Trade or Vendor Partner 1:19:15 – Can we make a change after our plans and colors meeting? What is the late change process? 1:22:15 – What additional fees are going to pop up in the build process? 1:27:34 – When will I get final numbers on the cost for everything? 1:29:37 – If my appraisal comes back short, what are my options? 1:31:16 – Do you have financing options? 1:31:35 – Reference: Mortgage 101 episode 1:32:06 – What does my credit score have to be at? 1:33:17 – Do you have a discount for veterans? 1:33:51 – If I am buying land, do I still get Simply Mitchell benefits? 1:34:00 – Reference: Mortgage 101 episode 1:35:53 – Why is your quote to add a basement higher than the other builder I talked to? 1:41:24 – Do you have model homes we can go tour?   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/   Get fast answers to your questions: Email: [email protected] Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

You've closed. You've moved in. Now what? Most homeowners have no idea what matters in the first year - what to watch, what's covered, and what could cost them down the road. In our latest episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott, Deven, and special guest, Tontanisha, our Warranty Claims & Construction Coordinator walk you how protect your investment and keep your home in top shape. We cover: - Resources included in your welcome home folder - Your pre-settlement orientation - How to submit requests the right way - The timing that matters most - Real maintenance tips   Tune in, take notes, and stay prepared. This isn't just about building a house - it's about building your legacy with confidence from the beginning. Watch the new episode, available now.   Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 01:05 – Bedrock Beliefs: Integrity & Loyalty 07:43 – Introducing special guest, Tontanisha Hines, Warranty Claims & Construction Coordinator 09:02 – Today’s topic overview: What to expect during your Pre-Settlement Orientation (POS) and what's included Warranty with every new Mitchell Home built on your land 16:33 – Timeline of generating and correcting punch list items after your closing day 22:55 – How our warranty process works - partnership with Quality Builders Warranty and what’s included in your Welcome Home folder 25:13 – How your warranty is registered, how to submit requests correctly, and turnaround time 33:30 – What are homeowners submitting at their 90-day vs. 11-month vs. What’s considered emergency repair requests? 43:18 – Episode is sponsored by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner 42:51 – Water filtration systems process and maintenance tips throughout home 55:17 – Our recommendations on timing your list submission about 10 months into being settled in your home so you don’t fall behind on the 12-month 1:00:27 – We build homes that last, with the idea that you’re going to help maintain it with us, so it does last 1:06:20 – National homebuilder association residential performance guidelines  1:09:14 – 1-year workmanship, 2-year limited systems, 10-year structural 1:15:30 – Deven speaks on the most common structural claim he’s seen over 30 years in the industry  1:16:50 – Difference between exterior and interior drains 1:21:25 – Protection and support from your builder partner, Mitchell Homes - Geo tech reports, over excavation, and more 1:24:08 – Your provided support & resources 1:26:00 – Like, subscribe, comment and email us at [email protected] if you want a Mitchell Homies T-shirt! Thanks for joining - see you next time.   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/   Get Fast Answers to Your Questions Email us: [email protected]  Call/Text us: (804) 538-3912

Building on your land is a big deal. And we want you to know, you're not doing it alone. Our newest Behind the Build Podcast episode, Pre-Con, Pre-Drywall & Pivot, is in loving memory of Jerry Thomas and rooted in something we believe in deeply: Proactive Partnership Together.   We've seen the pitfalls and learned the lessons. That's exactly why we created this podcast because we care about your experience. We want it to be enjoyable, clear, and confidence.   In this episode, we walk you through:   What happens before you break ground  Why your pre-con meeting matters  How to avoid delays  What late changes really mean for time & money  What to expect from us and how stay ahead internally every week   We're working towards the same destination and when you watch and listen, you become the expert on your own new home build.   Tune in. Take notes. Let's build your legacy, together.   Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 03:11 –Wilmington Design Studio opening soon 04:40 – Bedrock Beliefs: Clarity & Humility 09:18 – Today’s topic overview 12:42 – Pre-construction meeting timing 14:51 – Internal prep for your pre-con meeting 18:15 – What happens during the pre-con meeting 22:07 – MH customization vs other builders 30:00 – Addendums: what to expect 36:33 – Included appliances & features 47:00 – Customer responsibilities 50:10 – Setting up propane & avoiding delays 55:35 – Cost Breakdown Worksheet overview 58:20 – Construction supervisor & app expectations 1:01:21 – Projected closing + walkthroughs 1:14:23 – Late changes: timing & cost impact 1:25:48 – Building a proactive partnership with you 1:28:55 – In loving memory of Jerry Thomas   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/   Get Fast Answers to Your Questions Email us: [email protected]  Call/Text us: (804) 538-3912

Behind every home are people guiding the process, shaping the experience, and showing up long before the foundation is poured. In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven introduce four of those people—our in-house team members who walk alongside future homeowners every day. As the conversation unfolds, a shared belief becomes clear: building isn't just about the house itself. It's about making families feel confident, comfortable, and supported from day one.  These are the voices you'll hear first when you reach out. The people helping you design your home around your land, your lifestyle, and your future. The team making sure nothing feels confusing or out of reach—while keeping the process moving forward. And when you're ready to take the next step, knowing who's behind you makes all the difference. We invite you to listen in, get to know more of our team, and see why so many homeowners say the experience simply feels different.   Meet them now in the newest episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Inside the Mitchell Magic...

During the holiday season, it's nice to pause, dream a little, and imagine the next chapter of your family's story. What makes a house, a home? Some might say it's the laugher around the table, the quiet mornings with a cup of coffee, or the memories made with those you love. We agree, but a true home is also a reflection of your life, your story, and the land it stands on. At Mitchell Homes, we bring that vision to life. We study your property, understand your daily rhythms, and help you design a home that fits your lifestyle perfectly. "Standard" doesn't exist in our vocabulary because every detail is tailored to you and your land, from footprint to the finishing touches.   In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven reveal our Homebuyer Roadmap to Success: a step-by-step checklist that keeps your new home build flowing smoothly from contract to keys -- giving you clarity, confidence, and control.   PS - We've got a few surprises for you in this episode...   Take a moment for yourself this season. Your dream home is closer than you think with Mitchell Homes by your side...

 New Behind the Build Podcast Episode is Live! Featuring Special Guest: Chris Cleveland with CrossCountry Mortgage In this episode, Scott and Deven sit down with seasoned lender partner Chris Cleveland, who brings over 15 years of mortgage industry experience to the table. Whether you’re buying your first home or just want to better understand the lending process, this episode is packed with practical insights and tips. Here’s what we’ll cover:    Start-to-Finish Process Learn what it looks like when you team up with our homebuilding experts and a trusted lending partner. You’ll have support from both sides and the tools to ask the right questions from day one.    Mortgage Lending Expectations What level of service should you expect from a lender? Chris shares what really matters when choosing the right partner.    Pre-Qualification Tips Why getting pre-qualified early can set you up for success and help you make smarter decisions to protect your home investment.    Key Financial Terms Explained: Credit Scores: Why they matter and how they affect your loan options. Loan Types: Conventional, FHA, VA, and more — what’s the right fit for you? Titles & Appraisals: What they are and why they’re critical to the process. Closing Costs: What are they, who pays them, and how can you prepare?    Don’t miss this inside look at the lending side of the build on your land home journey.

Description: This isn’t just another episode—it’s the one you helped create. You sent in your questions—and now, Scott & Deven are answering them all in this special episode of Behind the Build. Whether you’re just getting started or deep into planning, this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with confidence. Here’s a sneak peek at what we cover: -Tips on finding land (and what to watch for) -New elevations and fresh design options coming soon -Custom build timelines—what to expect -The rise of duplexes and what to consider -How demolition works -ADA compliant design made simple -What’s going on with rates and demand right now -New Raleigh Design Studio is open and breaking ground on our Wilmington Design Studio -Southwest Virginia expansion coming soon Every great build starts with the right questions. And now, you’ve got the answers—tune in and take the next step toward the home you’ve been dreaming about.

What should every landowner know about well & septic? Find out on the latest episode of Behind the Build Podcast with your hosts, Scott & Deven at Mitchell Homes.   We sat down with two of our top experts—Deborah, our Pre-Construction Manager, and Jevon from RVA Site Services—to break down everything you need to know about well & septic planning:    Why using trusted contractors helps avoid delays and surprise costs   How our well & septic allowance supports a flexible budget   Maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly for decades   We're here to help you plan smart, avoid common pitfalls, and feel confident as you move forward with your home build!

Curious on how we handle the highs and lows, and why every review fuels our drive to deliver better experiences? In this new episode of the Behind the Build Podcast, Scott and Deven dive into our customer reviews—from 5-star raves to the tough feedback that keeps us on our toes. Whether you're building now or just dreaming, this episode is honest, personal and might just shift how you think about building a home...

Thinking about building a custom home—but worried about high interest rates, rising material costs, or risky loan terms? In this episode of Behind the Build, Scott & Deven reveal how we self-fund your home build using our own cash—so you skip construction loan interest, avoid tariffs, and lock in your pricing before the first wall goes up.   Here’s what you’ll learn:   - How our cash-backed SimplyMitchell financial advantages save homebuyers tens of thousands   - Why you’re protected from unexpected material cost spikes   - Simple steps to take NOW to build your dream home smarter   If you’re building on your land—or just want certainty in an uncertain market—this is the episode you can’t miss.   Whether you're a first-time builder or looking to upgrade your current home, Behind the Build offers valuable advice, expert tips, and real-life stories to help you navigate the complexities of home construction.   Subscribe to our channel to stay informed, inspired, and ready to tackle your new home building journey with confidence! https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/

Dive into the excitement on this Behind the Build Podcast episode! If you’re currently listening, we recommend watching this special episode!   We’re taking you to the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas—the world’s largest builder event. Tour our top partners like Moen, Kohler, Daltile, and Mohawk, and meet Quality Builders Warranty, whose warranty is included with every new home we build on your land.    Plus, after a year in the works, we’re revealing InSearch—a game-changing tool for YOU that is coming soon to our website. Design your custom home with interactive floor plans, right at your fingertips. This isn’t our usual technical deep-dive—it’s a fast, must-see look into the industry’s leading event. Hit play now—inspiration for your future dream home awaits!

Ready to take the first step toward building your home on your land? Episode 3 of the Behind the Build Podcast is live, and it’s packed with everything you need to know about our home building process from start to finish! Here’s What You’ll Learn with Scott & Deven: The seamless experience of working with Mitchell Homes, from browsing our website to the moment you walk into your new home with keys in hand. Ins & outs of financing, the “reservation” vs. “ratified contract” process, and much more! Practical advice, helpful tips, and an inside look at how Mitchell Homes makes it easy to build on your land in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Southern Maryland. Don’t miss this essential episode if you're serious about homeownership! Click below to watch or listen now.  

Want to know exactly what to expect when building your home on your land? Join Scott and Deven in the latest episode of the Behind the Build Podcast as they give you the roadmap to make sure your responsibilities are clear, and your build stays on track. This episode is packed with knowledge. You’ll walk away with actionable steps to keep your project moving smoothly, without delays—saving you time, stress, and money. Tips to Watch or Listen for: Securing financing & loans—no construction loans, so how does it work? Why getting your deed, surveys, and permits right is crucial What you need to know about wells, septics, and utilities Navigating bonds, balances, and erosion control And how our 150-day schedule keeps everything on track Trust us—you’ll want to have a notepad ready for this one! Have questions? We’ve got you covered—every step of the way.

Start your land search the right way! In this episode of Behind the Build, Scott and Deven break down everything you need to know about purchasing land for your new home build.   From key considerations to avoid costly mistakes, they share expert tips on finding the perfect property, understanding zoning, and navigating the buying process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to expand your land options, this episode will help you make informed, confident decisions before you break ground.   Subscribe to our channel to stay informed, inspired, and ready to tackle your new home building journey with confidence!

Welcome to Behind the Build, the podcast where Scott Sleeme, President, and Deven Sellers, Executive VP of Mitchell Homes, dive into the essential topics you need to know when building a new home on your land. Join Scott and Deven for informal, insightful discussions that cover everything from the initial planning stages to the final touches of your dream home.   Whether you're a first-time builder or looking to upgrade your current home, Behind the Build offers valuable advice, expert tips, and real-life stories to help you navigate the complexities of home construction. Subscribe to our channel to stay informed, inspired, and ready to tackle your new home-building journey with confidence!   Hosted by: Scott Sleeme and Deven Sellers