Ready, Set, Renovate!

What are your remodeling expectations?This is an important question. Certain things like craftsmanship and punctuality are standard, but other elements of the process require some guidance. Setting expectations early on in the project is a key component of Building Trust. At Daniel Builders, our Design team is here to help!In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate, you'll meet Brandon Hurtado, Design Project Manager. He has helped many Daniel Builders clients plan successful remodels. If you're wondering:how to determine if you need an interior designer or architectwhat decisions make the biggest impact on your budgetwhat deliverables you'll receive after signing a Design contracthow we clarify expectations to set your project up for successBrandon's got it covered. He shares what the Design process looks like from scope, to schemes, to selections. If you're new to remodeling, here's how we define these components of Design.Scope - a comprehensive overview, or road map, of your project outlining the expectations for buildSchemes - floor plans provided by our architecture team depicting various solutions for your spaceSelections - details that define the Design of your project, including fixtures, tile, flooring, paint, etc.Tune into the episode to see why our clients love the Daniel Builders Design team!🏡 Looking to build or renovate? Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started.0:00 Introduction 1:14 Brandon's Background & Experience 2:01 What is a Design Project Manager? 3:04 During a residential remodel, what does a Design package include? 4:55 How does carpentry experience aid Design? 5:37 How are expectations clarified during Design? 7:06 Communication between the Design and Build teams 7:37 When is an interior designer/architect necessary for a remodel? 8:57 Educating clients about the design-build process 9:38 Cost drivers during a remodel 10:46 Rewards of the job 11:22 Conclusion 11:30 How to Contact Daniel Builders

When choosing a custom home builder or renovation partner, trust matters. In our latest episode of Ready, Set, Renovate, Daniel Jachens, co-founder of Daniel Builders, shares the story behind the company, its core values, and the people who make it all happen.Whether you’re searching for a trustworthy custom home builder, considering a home renovation, or exploring career opportunities in construction and design, discover the Daniel Builders Difference!🏡 Looking to build or renovate? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started 💼 Interested in joining the team? Get an inside look at the culture, people, and opportunities that make Daniel Builders a great place to work. If you’re passionate about construction, design, and delivering exceptional results, Daniel Builders may be the place for you. Apply at: https://www.danielbuilders.com/careers 

When should you expect to inspect your home?Home Inspector, Grant Blackwell, has built a career through candid feedback. In fact, that's his business namesake! At Candid Home Inspections, Grant and his team aim to help homeowners identify minor home issues before they turn into big problems that cost thousands. Most people are familiar with home inspections at project completion, but on this months podcast, Grant "exposes" other beneficial phases of inspection. Whether you're staying, buying, selling, building, or renovating, a home inspection can give you peace of mind and foresight into future renovation plans.To contact Candid Home Inspections, visit their website or call 864.207.6073. Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started.

How do you decide whether to stay, move, or renovate?Your home is one of the largest investments you'll make in life. Not only is it a sizable financial investment, but where you live is an investment in your family, health, and happiness. What do you do when your current living situation isn't working? How do you weigh the pros, cons, and ROI when faced with a decision to stay, go, or reno? In today's episode, we speak with Kim Costa, Global Real Estate Advisor for Sotheby's International, about her upcoming book, Live in Your Wheelhouse. It discusses the Wheelhouse Method, an assessment Kim developed to help homeowners make big life decisions. We explore the wheel's eight areas and how you can use the assessment to partner with a realtor or contractor. Kim describes the renovations that have the largest ROI and how she calculates resale value. We also touch on the top real estate trends for 2026, including the market for homes that support multi-generational living, complete with a few Daniel Builders project photos.If you're facing a decision to stay, go, or reno, we hope this episode will help!  For more information on the Wheelhouse Method and her book, check out Kim's website. Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to remodel an entire home? Hear the transformation story of a Lake Hartwell home on this month's episode of Ready, Set, Renovate. You'll meet Ashley Street, the client, Cindy Jacques, Interior Designer at Buttercup Designs, and Paul Nichols, CEO & Founder of Upstate Granite Solutions. We discuss the features, fixtures, and countertops that created a floor plan perfect for entertaining. It’s truly a home for the holidays, a tour you won’t want to miss! So, let's get to it! Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started. If you're interested in the interior design services at Buttercup Designs, contact Cindy at [email protected]. If you want to find out more about the stone and countertops at Upstate Granite Solutions, visit https://upstategranitesolutions.com/.

What's it like to work with an architect?October 6th was World Architecture Day, a celebration of great architects and their work. In honor of World Architecture Day, we invited Billy Zion of Zion Architects to join us on this month’s episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! Daniel Builders and Zion Architects recently teamed up to build a four-seasons addition for a client in Anderson, SC. Tune in as Billy shares about the process, the project, and the draft to make the grade! Let’s get to it!Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started. If you're interested in more information about Zion Architects, contact Billy Zion at [email protected].

In Helene's aftermath, who did you rely on?Loved ones' faces and helping hands probably come to mind. Hurricane Helene taught us two things:1) Chaos fuels our compassion. 2) Resiliency is born through relationships.In the storm's aftermath, the Daniel Builders team supported old friends and forged new relationships. In this episode, we acknowledge adversity while celebrating the goodness we experienced through two relationships strengthened by the storm.One of our old friends is Larry Gluck. He describes how Hurricane Helene impacted his home in the Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards. While a custom build is complex, a custom rebuild presents its own unique challenges. Larry details a few of these challenges in his story.As Daniel Builders sought vendors to assist with the custom finishes of the Gluck home, we forged a new relationship with Tidewater Lumber and Mouldings. In the episode, Louis Voorhees, General Manager, takes us on a tour of the Greer Tidewater facility and reflects on the partnership that resulted when Tidewater Lumber and Daniel Builders teamed up to restore the Gluck home.Rebuilding trusses proved to be a powerful exercise in Building Trust.Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started. If you're interested in more information about lumber, contact Tidewater Lumber and Mouldings at 864.774.6053 or https://www.tidewaterlumber.com/.

September is Mold Awareness Month, and on the Ready, Set, Renovate! podcast our guest, Adam Proehl, shares knowledge on the topic. Adam and his wife, Samantha, are a one-stop shop for homeowners who see signs of mold. Adam starts the conversation by telling how Hurricane Helene triggered a myriad of mold problems for Upstate homeowners and how his business, Foothills Carpet Care, responded. Adam goes on to give an overview of the mold inspection and mold remediation processes.Daniel Jachens, co-owner of Daniel Builders, also joins us.  He shares his own personal experience with mold that caused his family to embark on a health journey due to mold sensitivity. The journey was LITERAL as they were forced to temporarily relocated.  Fortunately, not all mold is cause for concern, and not everyone is equally susceptible to it. Adam and Daniel discuss causes, mold prevention tips, and solutions for “breaking the mold” problem. Are you contemplating a major home remodel or in need of significant repair work? Now is a great time to start that process with Daniel Builders! Reach out to us at https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started or 864.506.5546. If you’re interested in more information about Foothills Carpet Care, contact them at 864.569.9366 or https://foothills-carpetcare.com/.

It's almost been a year since Hurricane Helene blew through the Carolinas. Anyone living in the area can recall the devastation experienced on September 27, 2024. In some parts of Western North Carolina, recovery efforts are still occurring.The storm caused some local businesses to shut down temporarily, while others saw enormous (and urgent) demand for their services. Tree arborists, like Athens Tree Service, saw an unprecedented number of inquiries. It took months of non-stop effort to resume some semblance of “normal.” During this time, Athens Tree Service joined forces with Daniel Builders and a few other trades to restore the home of one Anderson, SC resident. The story grants a glimpse into the generous heart and culture at Athens Tree Service. Owner Jonathan Athens joins us on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! to describe Helene’s impact, the ensuing recovery efforts, and giving generously, especially in times of need.Is your home in need of major repair work due to a storm, or are you contemplating a major home remodel? Now is a great time to start that process with Daniel Builders! Reach out to us here or call us at 864.506.5546. If you’re interested in more information about Athens Tree service, contact them at 864.556.5500 or https://athenstree.com/.0:00 Introduction 1:23 About Athens Tree Service 2:29 Safety Overview 3:14 Chainsaw Safety Tips for Homeowners 4:47 Hurricane Helene's Impact on Athens Tree Service 7:19 Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts 8:22 Generous Giving Project Collaboration 9:31 Creating a Culture of Giving 10:10 The Future of Athens Tree Service 10:46 How to Contact Athens Tree Service 11:11 Conclusion 11:33 How to Contact Daniel Builders

How does effective communication happen, especially during a remodel?Studies show that, on average, people hear between 20-30K words a day.  That’s an ocean of verbiage to process! Given this environment of information overload, finding the answer is essential if you are to avoid the frustrations of a remodeling project gone bad. To be clear, Daniel Builders has been unable to crack the “perfect communication” code.  Instead, we’ve woven communication into our DNA and core values, striving daily to improve as communicators by owning mistakes and identifying ways we can grow.One person on our team who “gets it” when it comes to communication is Vicki Jordan, our Design Administrator. She is the very first person our clients speak to after submitting a form on our website or calling our main line 864.506.5546.  As you’ll hear, Vicki goes above and beyond when answering questions and overcoming communication barriers.  She is attentive and caring, finding ways to benefit all, even those who don’t fit the Daniel Builders model.    We also speak to another great communicator, Taylor Lyles, CEO of the HBA of Greenville. Taylor is communicating nonstop with the association’s 1155+ members, including homeowners, builders, trades, and vendors throughout the Upstate of SC.  Despite the enormous membership of the Greenville HBA, Taylor makes himself accessible to address an endless stream of inquiries and has honed his ability to convey a message to a big audience.  He discusses industry communication as a whole and ways the HBA helps homeowners find the right builder for their project. To contact the HBA of Greenville, visit https://hbaofgreenville.com/ or call 864.254.0133.Do you want to be clear on what to expect during your home remodel?  Will your contractor be completely honest, for better or worse, throughout the remodeling process?  Contact us at https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started to experience the Daniel Builders difference.

How is your home’s curb appeal? Maybe it’s in a good place, or perhaps it’s unsightly.  Wherever you are on that spectrum, know this: a landscape architect can dramatically enhance your property.We know a great landscape architect! On this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate, we “dig into” a recent collaboration with Arbor Land Design. We cover “a lot of ground” as Alex Williams shares about this award-winning Simpsonville, SC property and the fundamentals of landscape architecture.If you’re in the market for a property upgrade, here are five characteristics of a good landscape architect:They work to create a cohesive flow between land and home, considering the form and function of the space. They craft an experience, not simply an end product.They actively collaborate with the design decision makers of a home, whether it’s the architect, general contractor, or some other influencer.They take the time to understand a client’s expectations and personality. They know not only what is best to plant, but when is best to plant it.They provide construction management services, overseeing other trade contractors from grading contractors to masons.Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started! If you’re interested in more information about landscape architecture, contact Arbor Land Design at 864.235.3589 or https://arborlanddesign.com/.

How many exceptional plumbers do you know?They’re out there, but not easy to find.  You're in luck, we happen to know a third-generation master plumber! In celebration of #WorldPlumbingDay and #FixALeakWeek, we spoke to Garth George, Plumbing Manager for Trusted Tradesmen & Co.  We also visited Chasidee Knapke at Gateway Supply Co. to check out some emerging plumbing technology! The conversation isn’t long, but full of great content. If you’re feeling “drained” by a plumbing issue in your home, you’ll welcome Garth’s know-how and friendly demeanor!In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate:Garth discusses the three main categories of plumbing and the qualifications needed to excel in each area.Garth explains the services reputable plumbers provide and the specialties of the Trusted Tradesmen crew.Garth provides tips on maintaining your home’s plumbing system and a valuable warning on maintaining your toilet’s warranty. This alone could make the entire episode worth watching!Garth describes emerging plumbing technology and upgrades for the luxury market.Chasidee demonstrates Zip Water USA's HydroTap Celsius All in One Faucet, which provides on-demand boiling, chilled sparkling, and chilled filtered water...all from the same tap! To get a sneak peek and learn more about the specs of this unique fixture click here.  Garth shares how Trusted Trademen & Co. puts their values into practice through generous giving."Water" you waiting for? Watch the full episode above!Are you contemplating a major home remodel that involves a plumbing upgrade? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by calling 864.506.5546 or get your renovation started here! If you're interested in more information about plumbing fixtures from Gateway Supply, reach out to Chasidee at 864.235.8700. If you need a plumber for your remodel or new build in upstate South Carolina, call Garth at 864.791.3994.

On this month’s Ready, Set, Renovate! podcast, get ready for a triple feature! Springtime is here, so naturally, we’re discussing April showers and H2O, specifically steam showers and leak detection solutions. You won't want to miss this "water-full" episode!Our first conversation is with Moen rep Jennifer Smith.  She discusses how Moen Flo minimizes water damage.  Running water is a great convenience, but it can cause catastrophic damage, headaches, and heartache. A small, undetected leak can compound over time, wreaking havoc on framing, interior finishes, and home safety. Jennifer delves into the emerging technology behind Moen Flo and how a small leak can be detected before it becomes a big problem. After talking plumbing protection, we discuss another emerging technology: steam showers! Installing a steam shower is one way to get more from your water. Chasidee Knapke of Gateway Supply joins us to share about the health benefits, maintenance, and costs associated with steam showers.   You’ll quickly see why they’re “saturating” the home improvement market. Finally, Brandon Hurtado, Daniel Builders Design Project Manager, explains how to take practical steps toward incorporating a steam shower into your next bathroom remodel. You won’t want to miss these considerations about condensation as Brandon “showers” us with information on design, tile selection, location, and installation! Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by contacting us at 864.506.5546 or https://www.danielbuilders.com/get-started! If you’re interested in more information about Moen Flo or steam showers, contact Gateway Supply at 864.235.7800 or https://gatewaysupply.net/.

Not long ago Daniel Builders wrapped up a $1.7M home remodel of a Simpsonville, SC residence.  As you might expect, the lighting fixtures were quite impressive! The Gallery of Lighting in Greenville, SC was one of the lighting suppliers for this project.  We recently spoke with Krystal Lord from the Gallery of Lighting about her role in the renovation process. From selection to installation, Lighting Specialists like Krystal help “illuminate” the path forward. Check out our interview with Krystal in the video above! When asked to comment on the remodel, here’s what Gallery of Lighting had to say:“It’s clear this homeowner had a vision for their home, and a sense of the importance that quality finishes and construction would play in making that vision come to life.” This project’s interior designer, Carol D’Cruz of D’Cruz Design, explained the “why” behind the lighting selections:“The light fixtures were all chosen for a modern aesthetic that incorporates natural materials.  I combined iron, alabaster, nickel, marble, frosted glass, and silk to achieve a timeless yet current feel.” Collin Amos from the Gallery of Lighting explained the role and priority of lighting during a remodel: “Lighting is just as important as any other detail in a home, so putting the same amount of effort into light fixtures as countertops, floors, etc. is paramount.” It all starts with “getting a plan on paper" (something her team is adept at doing). In terms of new technology and trends, the future is bright.  According to Collin, “We’re seeing more and more in the way of LED mirrors in bathrooms. They contribute to a high-end, spa-like feel in a space, and more lighting manufacturers are jumping on this trend and releasing their own designs. Key features to look for in a LED mirror are dimmability, color changing capability (warm to cool based on task at hand), and defogging features.”Are you contemplating a major home remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders Project Guide by calling 864.506.5546 or get your renovation started here! If you’re interested in more information about lighting fixtures from the Gallery of Lighting, you can visit their website or reach out to them at 864.370.4451.

Lindsey Johnson from Carolina Closets joins the Ready, Set, Renovate podcast. We recorded this one on beautiful Lake Keowee at a home Daniel Builders remodeled.  Lindsey talks about her role in the designing the kitchen pantry - which turned out beautiful!  It's a brief conversation with someone who has an expertise in pantry layout.  So let's get to it!FYI - Are you interested in SEEING this pantry?  Watch the video here.

One thing you'll find in downtown Greenville is a lot of is people who love being there.  Whether you're walking along Main St, hanging out in Falls Park, or watching a Greenville Drive baseball game, the city attracts people.  So what exactly is the appeal? Aubree Lewis, our guest on the final episode of our Condo Living series, is a realtor who has answered that question before.  Sh hosts a thriving YouTube channel that covers real estate related topics for Upstate South Caroline.  Aubree has showcased downtown Greenville on her show and understands why people find it a wonderful place to live.Aubree says the climate, local attractions, and cost of living are among the reasons for people moving there. Once we wrap up the conversation with Aubree, the Ready, Set, Renovate! team heads downtown to meet people and ask their opinion of downtown.  It's great bonus footage!  Stay tuned for an introduction to the city and a dose of good old Southern hospitality.So let's get to it!

What’s something contractors and radio don’t often have in common? Frequency. Tune in as we make waves (airwaves, that is) discussing the Daniel Builders difference! In this podcast post, two members of our team, Will Cord and Sean Harvey, talk remodeling with JD Nelson and Roger Nix on an episode of "House Plans," which aired on 98.9 WORD on June 29, 2024. This is a great opportunity to hear what is at the heart of our business.  Hear about our values, processes, specialties, and award-winning project portfolio!

How is a condo purchase financed?  It’s a bit different from purchasing a house and our guest on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! can be as thoroughly as you need when explaining how.  Brandon Calhoun of CountyBank mortgage joins us to share a few unique characteristics of the value and financing of a condo purchase.  A great episode for anyone ready to “move on up” to a condo!  So, let's get to it! How might your home or condo benefit from a Guide-Design-Build remodel? Tell us about it at https://www.danielbuilders.com/. We would love the opportunity to meet you and transform your space!

What's the difference between condo real estate law and real estate law for single-family dwellings? Significant differences exist between the two. On this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate, we speak with real estate attorney Mike Burrell.  He’s been practicing real estate law for over 35 years and offers legal insight about condos.  In our conversation, we cover topics ranging from title searches to first right of refusal to emerging trends in real estate law. This is a great opportunity to 1) get a concise, valuable overview of condo real estate law and 2) meet someone who can help with the sale or purchase of your next property!   So let’s get to it!   How might your home or condo benefit from a Guide-Design-Build remodel? Speak with a Daniel Builders project guide by calling 864.506.5546 or tell us about it at https://www.danielbuilders.com/. We would love the opportunity to meet you and transform your space!

How do you know you've found a trustworthy electrician? Of course, competence is key. A positive attitude, genuine passion for the work, and a drive for excellence are additional qualities that build trust. Do you know anybody who fits that description?  We do! Our guest on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! is Nate Collins. He’s the Lead Electrician at Trusted Tradesmen & Co. On this episode, Nate shares distinctions between electrical systems in condos and single-family homes. If you own a condo or are considering the purchase of a condo, stay "current" with the latest episode in our Condo Living series! Nate's expertise, eloquence, and energy certainly "spark" some interesting conversation! So, let's get to it! 

Who is your structural sounding board? Want to move a wall in your condo? While there are many con-”DOs”, there are plenty of con-”DON’TS” when it comes to building structure and safety. Our guest on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! is an expert in structural integrity. His name is Chad Brendle, and he’s the owner of CB Engineering Group. Chad joins us to explore the complexities of remodeling within multi-story buildings. Whether you’re a condo owner looking to remodel or a prospective buyer seeking information, Chad’s insight provides a firm foundation…in more ways than one!So, let's get to it! How might your home or condo benefit from a Guide-Design-Build remodel? Tell us about it at https://www.danielbuilders.com/. We would love the opportunity to meet you and transform your space!

Who is shaping the city of Greenville, SC?Our guest on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! is no doubt on the short list. Her name is Shannon Lavrin, and she’s the city’s CEO, also known as the City Manager.Shannon spends her days, nights, and weekends implementing city council priorities and engaging with citizens. Shannon joins us on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! to discuss the city's future and what is going on with downtown residential development. It’s a fascinating conversation all about a town many proudly call home!So, let's get to it!How might your home or condo benefit from a Guide-Design-Build remodel? Tell us about it at https://www.danielbuilders.com/. We would love the opportunity to meet you and transform your space!

What obstacles stand in the way of establishing the design aesthetic for your condo? Who has the interior design expertise to overcome those obstacles? It just so happens we're answering both questions on this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! Chisana Hice-Smith, Lead Residential Designer at In Site Designs, has significant condo remodeling experience. She shares a few things to consider before embarking on a condo remodel. You won't want to miss this conversation full of design flair! So, let's get to it! How might your home or condo benefit from a Guide-Design-Build remodel? Tell us about it at https://www.danielbuilders.com/. We would love the opportunity to meet you and transform your space!

Daniel Builders has a highly effective in-house salesforce called Project Guides, but did you know we also have a voluntary sales force?Yes, you read that correctly, “voluntary”. Who would attempt to sell something without receiving any benefit for their effort? We’re consistently humbled by the kindness of our voluntary salesforce, comprised of raving fans who share their positive experience through word-of-mouth referrals.On this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! you’ll hear from a current fan and past client, Terry Connor.  Terry hired Daniel Builders to remodel his condo in downtown Greenville, SC. He also serves on the HOA board that partnered with Daniel Builders to transform several units in the building. Terry shares his renovation experience from this unique vantage point.  It’s nothing like a traditional sales pitch, but you may walk away sold on Daniel Builders.  So let’s get to it!How might your home or condo benefit from a Guide-Design-Build remodel? Tell us about it at danielbuilders.com. We would love the opportunity to meet you and transform your space! 

Where do you begin when remodeling a condo? That’s a good question, but an even better one is “Who do you begin a Condo remodel with?”  You no doubt expect us to say Daniel Builders, and since this podcast is produced by Daniel Builders, you’d be right.  However, we’re adding a slight twist.  It’s probably best to by listening to someone who has used Daniel Builders, yes past clients.  We have one coming on the show in a few weeks.   One recurring theme among clients is Manny Figueroa is wonderful to work with and uniquely competent at what he does.  In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! you’ll get a taste of both of those traits.Manny understands the remodeling process, but not just remodeling homes. As you’ll hear in this episode, Manny has good experience with remodeling condo’s as well.  Our clients will tell you he is great person to start with when exploring condo remodels.   So let’s get to it!     Are you looking to remodel your condo? Tell us about it at danielbuilders.com. We would love the opportunity to meet you and upgrade wherever you reside!

Obviously, many do.Plenty of amenities and conveniences make city living appealing. There are a few trade-offs as well. Much of it comes down to finding and fixing up just the right place to suit the needs of your family.The Ready, Set, Renovate! podcast is embarking on a ten-part series focused on condo living. The guest on our first episode is Nick Van Gorp, an engaging and gifted realtor well-versed in the intricacies of condo life. As you’ll hear, he knows what to look for when seeking a place in the city, something he’s done for numerous clients. As a Chicago native and former condo dweller, he also speaks from firsthand experience. It’s time to learn a thing or two.So, let’s get to it!Are you looking to remodel your condo? Tell us about it at danielbuilders.com. We would love the opportunity to meet you and upgrade wherever you reside!

If you could be an expert on anything, what would it be?For Andy Naples in an expertise in electricity. Andy is an an electrical engineer (Georgia Tech graduate) who spent decades studying and utilizing electricity. Andy joined us on the Ready, Set, Renovate! podcast to share a few practical pointers and some fun facts about electricity. His passion for electricity can get anyone charged up discussing this topic.So let’s get to it!Are you considering a major remodel? You’ll want to ensure the electrical work is in good working order. Our Project Guides can help you get started. Tell us about your home remodeling ideas here.

What is the most common building material?Answer:  CONCRETEIt’s literally everywhere and has vast construction applications.  From home foundations to unique countertops, concrete is so common you're likely within a few feet of it right now.  Despite being common, not all concrete is equal.  Getting good concrete doesn’t just happen.  You need the right mix, the right delivery system with trucks & drivers and the right finishers to ensure form and function.  Austin Petratoas is our guest on this episode of RSR, and Austin knows concrete.  His career is concrete, and he doesn’t just know about it, he’s passionate about it!  That passion is observable when concrete comes up in conversation. He’s an all-around solid guy too, figuratively speaking of course.  So, let’s get to it!Does your next remodel include concrete?  Bring your remodeling ideas to a Project Guide at danielbuilders.com. From there we’ll map out steps to transform your home!

How much Design time should you spend prior to starting a home remodel?Some need quite a lot, which is why the Guide-Design-Build process exists.  Project drawings, a detailed scope of work, a complete list of selections and a fixed cost to build are all part of that process.  Not all projects require this level of upfront legwork though. Some remodels have a super straight forward Scope of Work.  Can a remodel like that go directly to the Build phase? Turns out yes.There is a category of remodels that can largely bypass the Design process. Daniel Builders refers to these remodels as Direct Projects. The Direct Projects division at Daniel Builders is able to perform remodels that require minimal or no Design work. Or, in cases where a third party architect and designer have already produced a Design, clients can utilize Direct Projects in the Build phase. In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! Many Figueroa discusses Direct Projects and his role in this division. Manny identifies which remodels are the “right fit” for Direct Projects and discusses his role getting them to the Build phase.  As you’ll see, Manny thrives on being a problem solver and understands how to create a great remodeling experience his clients. So let’s get to it! Are you ready to remodel some part of your home and minimal Design work is required? If so, tell us your remodeling ideas at here. A Project Guide will contact you and create the best path to move your remodel forward.

Daniel Builders created a FB post of a detached Accessary Dwelling Unit (ADU) on Nov 16.  The post took on a life of its own generated over 2K likes and that number is still growing as Nov 22.  Why all the interest in ADUs?  The Building Trust blog asked that question, as well as a few others to the architect, Billy Zion of Zion Architects.  Billy designed the ADU in the FB post.  As you’ll hear Zion Architects is an excellent place to start a custom build whether it’s an ADU, Guest House, Pool House, or Tiny Home. 

Is it crazy to uproot your family and travel thousands of miles in search of a new state?  Some might think so, but not Ricardo Rodriquez and his wife Amber. They thought it was a great idea. And after a year of living in South Carolina, they still do.Two years ago they were living in Bakersfield, CA. Amber convinced Ricardo that farm livin' is the life for them (to borrow a lyric from Green Acres). Long road trips ensued.  They traveled to Texas, Tennessee, Florida, and South Carolina seeking a place to fulfill their agrarian vision. A lovely plot of land in Pendleton, SC is where they landed.It's an intriguing and increasingly common story. People from all over the country want to live South Carolina. Ricardo explains the appeal, and what they learned since arriving.As you'll see his major move wasn't so crazy after all.Is someone you know moving to the upstate of South Carolina? Our Guide-Design-Build team can help them transform a house into a place they love living. We'd love to hear their custom remodeling ideas at Danielbuilders.com.

At Daniel Builders we have a blueprint for Building Trust.  Not everyone chooses us to be their remodeling contractor, but we aim to establish Trust with everyone. If you’ve seen our trucks, you know our tagline “Building Trust”.  Perhaps that sounds like abstract marketing gibberish, but we see it as a very practical pursuit. We're serious about trust and we've identified five components to building it - Honesty, Communication, Connection, Commitment, and Competence. Spend time with our team and you'll hear those words spoken repeatedly.   In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate we focus on competence, which is defined as an ability to do something successfully or efficiently. Trust based on competence is a universal principle. A pizza place who makes great pizza in a timely manner will have people returning for more. The same is true for a remodeling contractor who do great work. Their clients return for two, three, even four more remodels. We seen it happen! On this episode you'll hear from two guys who came up through the ranks at Daniel Builders. Sean Harvey is the Build Director and Sam Parkinson is a Project Manager. These guys got to where they are in large part by being competent in carpentry. How did they become competent in carpentry? As you’ll hear Sean & Sam took different paths to developing carpentry competence. One took an “old school” approach while the other learned much under the tutelage of YouTube. It’s a content rich conversation on carpentry competence. 

Kevin Schreiber knows tile.  From beautiful bathrooms to backsplashes Kevin routinely produces beautiful work.  And as a remodeling contractor, we at Daniel Builders love that about him!  As you may expect, he's a wealth of knowledge when it comes to tile.  In this episode of Kevin talks about the art, science and cost of tile, (some of it can get pretty pricey). This is an opportunity to hear from a true expert in his field, as well see his work which speaks for itself.   

Drone photography is an aspect of construction that is really taking off!  On this episode of Ready, Set Renovate!  we speak with drone photographer Ryan Swanson of Upper Edge Drone Photography.  Ryan talks about utilizing drone photography with benefits that go beyond capturing cool photos. It’s an uplifting conversation sure to give you a better view of remodeling work! (sorry can't keep the dad jokes to myself)So let's get to it!    

An Accessary Dwelling Unit is secondary housing option.  You may recognize them by other names such as Granny Flat, Guest House, Garage Apartment, or In-Law Suite.  ADUs offer all the same characteristics of a home - kitchen, bedroom(s), bathroom - while sharing the same property as the primary house.An ADU may be attached or detached or even inside the primary house.  They can benefit families who care for loved ones in a multi-generational home. ADUs also create rental income opportunities, provide office space or might be the perfect location for a new business.Taylor Lyles, HBA of Greenville CEO, is our guest on this episode of Ready Set Renovate.  Taylor discusses the growing popularity of ADUs, as well as building and permitting them in Greenville County.  As you'll here, Taylor is pretty well versed in the ADU realm.So let's get to it!Are you considering an ADU on your property?  Tell a Daniel Builders Project Guide about your ADU ideas and start the Guide-Design-Build process today! 

At last!  The remodeling of this iconic Pendleton SC home is complete.  The home has been part of the Pendleton community for well over 100 years, and officially ready for another 100 years.  Getting to his point was no easy feat as project manager Sam Parkinson explains.  In this final installment of a year long documentary, Sam expresses the excitement of finishing and finishing strong!  His efforts culminated in a stunning home, with so much of its original character restored.  Sam shares a tinge of sadness as he talks about releasing his "baby", but its an emotion quickly eclipsed by the homeowner's joy.  This journey is well worth hearing!   

Hard to say for sure, but you likely started with a one word question every toddler throughout history has asked.  "Why?"  Pretty cool how humans are programmed to search for reason at such an early age. Turns out understanding "Why?" is vital to the remodeling process. Knowing the honest answer reduces stress, and more importantly protects you from buyers remorse. In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! Chris Cloud talks abut finding  reason behind the renovation, as well as reason not to renovate. Which is WHY watching or listening to this episode is a good idea!Explore why clients are delighted with the Guide-Design-Build remodeling process.  Tell the Daniel Builders team about your remodeling ideas and a Project Guide will contact you soon!

How much do large purchases really cost?Large purchases require large sums of money.  Obviously.  The paying doesn't stop there though.  Ensuring your satisfaction with a large purchase requires paying attention to accurate information.  What are sources of accurate information?  Reputable businesses, people in the industry, and even publications all are great source, but once source provides the best idea of what to expect.  That's a past client.  Past clients speak from personal experience, and hold the answer to an important question.  Would you do it again, knowing what you know?  In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate we hear from clients who renovated a significant portion of their home.  Their scope included adding a laundry room, screen porch, deck, workshop, and a new driveway with an electric gate.  Several aspects of their experience come up through the course of this conversation, ranging from how neighbors felt about the construction work happening in the neighborhood to finding inspiration for design features.  Their experience is valuable and perspective worth hearing.  So let's get to it! Are you ready to start the renovation conversation and want an opportunity to speak with references?  Contact our team at  864.506.5546.  A Project Guide can connect you to other clients with firsthand experience of our Guide-Design-Build process.

You’ve heard the stories before.  Client goes to a custom builder with a big dream.  Builder says no problem and off they go building, when seemingly out of the blue MAJOR problems arise.  Questions and fear multiply.  Will my project ever be complete?  How much added cost?  And ultimately is this going to get worse than I can imagine?  A ton of money, time and yes someone's very home is at stake. On this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! Hailey Evans shares how she worked hard to keep her custom home from turning into a contractor horror story.  She and her builder (which was not Daniel Builders) thought they had a good idea how everything would go, but a few months into build process expectations had radically changed, and not for the better. Issues surrounding COVID only added to the difficulties.  Being a “can-do” person, Hailey rolled up her sleeves and became the self-appointed project manager for her custom home.  Pretty remarkable considering she had zero experience as a builder! As she articulates, the learning process was extremely challenging, but also very rewarding.  Hailey was determined her custom home story would have happy ending.  Fortunately, the ending was happy in more ways than one.  Are you wanting to steer clear of a renovation horror story?  Tell us about your renovation aspirations at danielbuilders.com.  A Project Guide will contact you and begin moving your ideas forward.  

Have you ever encountered a sales person who would say anything to get the sale?  Before long it's obvious your best interest is no where on their radar.  That frustrates and undermines trust.  Emotions run high when your home is on the line.  At that point there's no debating the value of a trusted advisor.  Not just a salesperson, we all want a guide who will tell the truth even if they lose the sale.  Our two guest for this episode are men of character who happen to be in sales.  Yes John Power (Daniel Builders) & Mark Martin (Keller Williams) go to work to make money, but not in a way that jeopardizes trust.  They know bad advice is a trust killer.  Listen as they speak about their somewhat novel approach - advising the client based on the client's best interest.

Yes we promote our Guide-Design-Build process at Daniel Builders, but what do clients say about it?They're bound to share their experience with somebody.  Maybe in a Google review or on social media or in a personal conversation (yes those still exist), but rest assured someone will eventually know how they really feel.   On this episode of Ready, Set Renovate we speak with one of our clients, Brian Holmes.  Brian entrusted his home to Daniel Builders to completely renovate.  He speaks candidly about going through the Design and Build phases of his project.  We hear what went right and how things were handled when they went wrong.  As a senior partner for Peachtree Planning, Brian oversees the Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson area.  He articulates and expects excellence from his team, as well as those he makes a major investment in.   Brian understands the power of brand advocates, but is savvy enough to not endorse just anybody. After all, vouching for someone else has an element of risk.  You're putting your own reputation on the line.  The photos of this renovation are pretty stunning and they can be found by watching this episode in it's entirety on our YouTube Channel, Daniel Builders Inc.  The Holmes basement will be showcased at the beginning of our conversation and the remainder of professional photos (kitchen, living area, and bathroom) at the end. Are you considering a whole home remodel and would like an opportunity to speak with references?  Contact our team at  864.506.5546 to speak with a Project Guide about connecting with clients who experienced our Guide-Design-Build process firsthand.

Being a GC or Project Manager is simple, right?Calling trades and collecting checks is all it takes, right?Any homeowner could do that, right?Wrong. Wrong. And Wrong.A GC or PM with that mindset would be a joke, a really bad joke. On this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! our 2 guests discuss the not-so-simple role of managing large custom renovations and new builds. Sam Parkinson, a Project Manager at Daniel Builders, and Stephen Jones of Caba Homes aren't whining though. They fully embrace the difficulty of their jobs and are quick to acknowledge they couldn't do it alone. Take away their trade contractors and suddenly building a custom home becomes exponentially more difficult.Managers have differing styles, but Sam and Stephen both understand what it takes to produce excellent work. And as an added benefit, they’re both likeable human beings. Enough talking about them. Let's dive into this conversation!How much expertise does your next custom renovation require? Call 864.506.5546 and a Project Guide can assist you with finding the answer.  

What part of a kitchen renovation is most important?   A)  FlooringB)  AppliancesC)  CountertopsD)  Cabinetry(having read the title, you know where this is going) Yes, cabinetry is typically the highest priority during Design.  In this episode of Ready Set Renovate we spoke with cabinet builder, Dale VanDonkelaar. After 30+ years of honing his cabinet building ability, his work is beautiful and functional cabinetry.  In fact, Dale is so focused on his craft, getting him out of his shop was a challenge.  Grateful he came on to share approximately 10 minutes of cabinet building passion and insight.  Hope you enjoy this fun, faced paced episode!  Is your kitchen ready to be renovated, new cabinetry and all?  Contact a Daniel Builders project guide at 864.506.5546 and learn more about the custom renovation process.

2022 is winding down and in this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! we're expressing gratitude to Taylor Hall.  As you'll see, Taylor is a rare combination of creative genius and technical savvy, which has benefited the TSR! podcast.  In this episode Taylor discusses his passion for videography, and how growth minded businesses can leverage that passion.  (Good video content and a gifted videographer are marketing gold)  Enough talking about Taylor, time to hear from the man behind the camera.  Let's get to it!

Know any good attorney jokes?  Funny as they may be, legal problems during a renovation aren't funny at all.  Going into a major custom renovation requires a robust legal contract, which can get quite lengthy and full of confusing legalese.  Discussing details of a contract isn't the most delightful part of renovating your home, but absolutely necessary.  The alternative of having no contract or one that's poorly written can make your renovation experience truly regrettable. Attorney Stokley Holder, of the law offices of Holder, Padgett, Littlejohn and Prickett is our guest in this episode of Ready, Set Renovate!  Andy DeLeonardis, our contract specialist at Daniel Builders, also joins conversation. Attorney jokes aside, this is a helpful conversation when you're prepping for custom renovation.  Let's get to it!Want to go through the custom renovation process (Guide-Design-Build) with full confidence?  Contact a Project Guide at Daniel Builders 864.506.5546.

Is a Design phase necessary for your custom renovation?  Some would suggest no.  They would say a skilled craftsman (or what we affectionately call Chuck & his Truck) is all you need.  And it's possible that might work.  There's a lot of risk taking that approach though.  Like anything significant you want to accomplish, the right preparation leads to the right outcome.  Design = Preparation.  Be assured a well crafted Design increases the likelihood  of getting the renovation you envision.    So what goes into a custom renovation Design?  The short answer is it varies.  Whole home custom renovations require significantly more Design work than a bathroom reno.  The goal of Design is to walk away with a rendering, a detailed scope of work, selections (colors & fixtures), and it certainly helps to have a Builder near to provide a Fixed Cost to Build.  In this episode we talk with two individuals well acquainted with the Design process.  Billy Zion of Zion architects and Laurilyn Hall of Thrive Architectural Interiors are two people with extensive experience Designing custom renovation.  You'll quickly see their contribution to that process is significant.  So without further ado…   Let’s get to it!   

This episode is all about the client/contractor relationship.  Why are some relationships harmonious and productive while others are highly strained (to put it nicely)?  Our guest, Shawn Van Dyke, is a construction business coach, keynote speaker, and author of two books - Profit First for Contractors and The Paperwork Punch List. Most contractors are not profitable which makes them feel uncertain about what they need to do to grow their construction businesses. Shawn believes construction business owners should be as good at business as they are at their craft. That's why, after twenty-plus years of owning and operating multiple construction businesses, he now works with construction business owners, executives, and managers all over the world and shows them how to stop losing profits and wasting time. He is the CEO of the Built to Build Academy® which creates confident construction business owners by providing operational systems to streamline their construction business, and get their life back.Rob Young of Heritage Custom Builder also joins us to share his experience and insight on the Client/Contractor relationship.Let's get to it!

How does a custom builder formulate a price for your renovation project?  Generally speaking, there are 2 approaches to pricing a custom renovation  – Cost Plus & Fixed Cost.  In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! Steve Carson and Larry Myers compare and contrast these 2 methods.Both are reputable builders and have well thought out reasons for their chosen approach to pricing.  Spoiler alert, neither approach fits all circumstances, although you may discover one is preferable to you, your personality and circumstances.  Only one way to find out.  Listen and decide!

At 106 East Benson St in downtown Anderson SC you'll find a building from the 1800s. You probably wouldn't guess it's that old though.  The place doesn't look it's aged a day.  Daniel Builders helped reverse the affects of time by performing a historic renovation. The success of this project was recognized by the state of South Carolina Historic Preservation Society. Joining us on this episode of  Ready, Set, Renovate! is Allie Walker, owner of Katherine Marie Weddings and Bridal Boutique.  She provided the creative direction behind this renovation.  Allie tells how she took a building full of historical charm and turned it into a beautiful bridal shop.  Let's climb into the proverbial time machine  and explore the history behind this renovation!

What would life without utility bills be like? Maybe you’ve heard legend of these "off-grid" people and their homes, but do that actually exist? And if they do exist, what modern conveniences are they sacrificing to achieve this feat? In this episode of Ready, Set, Renovate! our guest Derek Zearley discusses his modern “off grid” home, which he and his family have been living in since 2020.  Derek reveals the power source for his home (*spoiler alert* Tesla batteries are part of the power supply equation) and what it took to get the whole system up & running.  Derrick's story was also covered in this Solar Power World article, where you can see photos of home.