Beyond Maryland's Minimum: Why Working with Justin and Customize Your Home Delivers Premium Value in Every Build

The Difference Between "Any Sales Agent" and "Expert-Selected Excellence"

While Maryland building codes establish basic safety minimums, Maryland's Building Performance Standards require conformance to the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC), International Building Code (IBC), and International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) - but that's just the starting point. With my 28+ years of new home sales experience and background in custom home building, I don't just sell homes; I choose to represent only builders who exceed code in many ways possible.

Why My Builder Selection Matters to You

My Unique Background = Your Advantage

• Custom Home Building Experience: Before my 28 years in new home sales, I built custom homes - I know quality construction from the ground up

• Discriminating Standards: With decades of experience, I choose to represent only builders who meet my exacting standards

• Expert Eye: I can spot construction shortcuts and quality compromises that other sales agents miss

• Client Advocacy: Focused on delivering homes that exceed expectations, not just meet minimum code

What Maryland Code Requires vs. What My Chosen Builder Delivers STANDARD

Structural Excellence: Built to Last Generations

Maryland Minimum Code (What Most Builders Deliver):

• 2x4 exterior wall construction

• Thin sheet metal attachments screwed into concrete foundation and bottom plate

• Basic nailing for drywall and subfloors

• (R-19) exterior insulation (requiring foil layer under siding to compensate for shallow wall cavity)

• Basic moisture protection

Why I Selected This Builder - Premium Standards INCLUDED:

• 6" Insulated Exterior Walls (R-21): Superior 2x6 construction providing better structural integrity and thermal performance and exceed minimum code of (R-19)

• J-Bolt Foundation Attachment: Solid steel J-bolts properly anchor walls to foundation - no cheap sheet metal shortcuts

• Glued AND Screwed Construction:

  • Ceiling drywall glued and screwed to help eliminate nail pops

  • Subfloors glued and screwed (not just glued and nailed) to prevent squeaks and movement

• Tyvek Building Wrap Infiltration System: Professional-grade weather protection on exterior sheathing

• R-38 Attic Insulation: maximizing energy efficiency

Smart Home Technology: Future-Ready From Day One

Standard Builder Approach:

• Basic electrical outlets

• Standard deadbolts and garage doors

• Manual thermostats

• Basic wiring

My Builder's INCLUDED Smart Features:

• Schlage Encode Smart WIFI Deadbolt on front door

• Ring Doorbell

• Genie WiFi Garage Door Opener with Aladdin Connect with Clopay Gallery insulated door with glass

• Honeywell VisionPro 8000 WiFi Smart Thermostat

• Alexa Echo Dot to control smart home features

• 4 USB Outlets strategically located

• Cat 6 wiring home runs and IT panel that support gigabit speed Internet

• Advanced Electrical Package with recessed lighting throughout (most builders charge $250 to $500 per light)

Premium Kitchen Package: $15,000+ Value INCLUDED

Code Minimum Kitchens:

• Basic cabinets (often MDF base cabinets) with standard hinges and countertops

• Standard appliances (often not included)

• Basic lighting

• Minimal storage

Why I Chose This Builder - INCLUDED Kitchen Features:

• Designer 42" Solid Wood Cabinets with dovetail joints and soft close features - no MDF base cabinets like many builders use

• Pantry with shelving

• Choice of Level 1 Granite or Quartz Countertops with eased edge

• Complete Energy Efficient Appliance Package:

  • 26 cu. ft. side-by-side refrigerator with in-door icemaker and water

  • Microwave with ductless hood over range

  • Dishwasher and waste disposer

  • Electric and Gas (depending on community availability) range with self-cleaning oven

• Stainless Steel Large Under Mount Single Bowl Sink

• Kitchen Island (standard, not an upgrade!)

• Laminate and LVP Flooring

• 2 Pendant Lights plus Recessed Lighting

Luxury Bathroom Features: $8,000+ Value INCLUDED

Basic Code Bathrooms:

• Standard fixtures

• Basic vanities

• Minimal tile work

My Builder's INCLUDED Bathroom Package:

• In-Suite Bath in Owner's Bedroom

• White Cultured Marble Vanity

• Designer Vanity Cabinets matching kitchen

• Medicine Cabinets in most bathrooms

• White Bathtub with 4x4 White Ceramic Tile Surround to ceiling

• Chrome Moen Fixtures throughout

Safety & Protection: Beyond Code Requirements

Standard Builder Approach:

• Minimum code smoke detectors

• Exposed fire sprinkler systems

• Minimum safety compliance

My Builder's Advanced Protection (INCLUDED):

• Sprinkler System with Recessed Heads: Pop-down design prevents accidental activation

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors per code

• Brushed Nickel Deadbolts on all exterior doors

• 1-Year Termite Control Warranty

Health & Environmental Features: Your Family's Wellbeing

What Most Builders Overlook:

• Standard carpets and paints with high VOC emissions

• Basic air filtration

• Minimal attention to indoor air quality

Why My Builder Stands Apart - INCLUDED Health-Wise Features:

• Low VOC Emission Carpet with stain treatment

• Low VOC Emission Paint on all walls, ceilings, trim, and doors

• High Efficiency HVAC System

• Water Saver Shower Heads, Toilets, and Faucets

Energy Efficiency: Built for Maryland's Future

Maryland Minimum Code Requirements:

• Basic insulation meeting 9R-19) exterior requirements

• Standard HVAC systems

• Basic windows

• Manual thermostats

My Builder's INCLUDED Energy Package:

• 6" Insulated Exterior Walls (R-21): Exceeding code by 10%

• (R-38) Attic Insulation: Superior thermal protection

• High Efficiency Electric Heating and Central Air with Honeywell VisionPro 8000 WiFi Smart Thermostat

• Double Glazed Low-E Insulated Windows with screens

• Fiberglass Insulated Front Door

• Doors and Windows Caulked and Sealed

• Attic and Soffit Ventilation System

• 50-Gallon Electric Hot Water Heater

Exterior Features & Finishes: Curb Appeal INCLUDED

Standard Builder Exterior:

• Basic siding

• Standard garage doors

• Minimal landscaping

• Basic hardware

My Builder's INCLUDED Exterior Package:

• Low Maintenance Vinyl Siding with Stone Water Table

• Tamko 30-Year Architectural Shingles

• Fully Sodded Front Yard with Landscape Package

• Brushed Nickel Interior and Exterior Door Hardware

• Concrete Lead Walks

• Exterior Hose Bibs and Electrical Outlets front and rear

Interior Luxury: Designer Details INCLUDED

Basic Builder Interiors:

• Standard ceiling heights

• Basic lighting

• Minimal built-ins

• Standard paint and finishes

My Builder's INCLUDED Interior Features:

• 9' Ceilings on entry and main living level

• Designer Light Fixtures throughout

• Ceiling Fan/Light Combo in owner's bedroom

• Hanging Fixture in dining area

• Craftsman style Oak Handrails

• Ventilated Shelves in closets

• Semi-Gloss Paint on trim and doors

• Recessed Lights throughout homes and ceiling lights in all bedrooms (most builders don't include a light)

My Personal Service & Warranty Support

Your Complete Protection with My Personal Guarantee:

My Partner Builder's Commitment - Year One 100% Support:

• Oversight of any construction-related issues

• Direct Access to Our Builder Partner Network: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, appliance suppliers

• Pre-Settlement Orientation and Inspection with the construction superintendent who built your home

• My 28+ years of experience ensuring quality at every step

11 to 12 Month Personal Walkthrough:

• The builder personally conducts the inspection as your home completes its settling period

• Address any normal settling issues at no cost to you

Long-Term Protection Through My Builder Partnership:

• 10-Year Structural Warranty through 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty

• Manufacturers' Limited Warranties on all included appliances

• 1-Year Termite Control Warranty

• HOA Includes Lawn Maintenance (in most communities)

The Hidden Value: What This Package Would Cost Elsewhere

Conservative Estimate of INCLUDED Features:

• Premium Solid Wood Kitchen Cabinet Package: $6,000-$10,000

• Kitchen Appliance Package: $8,000-$12,000

• Granite/Quartz Countertops: $3,000-$5,000

• Smart Home Technology: $2,000-$3,000

• Premium Bathroom Fixtures: $4,000-$6,000

• 2x6 Construction Upgrade: $3,000-$5,000

• Enhanced Insulation Package: $2,000-$3,000

• Designer Lighting Package: $2,000-$3,000

• Landscaping and Exterior Features: $5,000-$8,000

Total Added Value: $35,000-$55,000 All INCLUDED in your base price through my builder partnership!

Why My Construction Knowledge Protects You

2x6 vs 2x4 Construction Reality:

Having built custom homes, I know that most builders use 2x4 exterior walls and struggle to meet Maryland's (R-19) requirement, often needing foil layers under siding. That's why I chose a builder whose 6" walls easily achieve (R-21) insulation - 10% better thermal performance with no shortcuts.

J-Bolt Foundation Connection:

From my building experience, I know sheet metal connectors are the cheapest code-compliant option and can loosen over time in Maryland's freeze-thaw cycles. My builder's J-bolt system creates permanent, unbreakable connections.

Glue-and-Screw Installation & Premium Materials:

Having seen the problems caused by construction shortcuts, I insist on builders who glue-and-screw instead of just nail. This eliminates nail pops and floor squeaks permanently. I also choose builders who use solid wood cabinets with dovetail joints and soft close features - not the MDF base cabinets that many builders use to cut costs.

Why My 28+ Years of Experience Matters

I've Seen It All:

• Custom Building Background: I know quality construction from the inside out

• 28+ Years in New Home Sales: I've guided hundreds of families through the process

• Mortgage Industry Knowledge: Understanding of financing helps streamline your purchase

• Selective Representation: I choose to work only with builders who meet my standards

You Get More Than a Sales Agent:

• Expert Construction Advisor: Spotting quality issues before they become problems

• Personal Advocate: Your interests protected by someone who knows the industry

• Customization Expert: Interactive design tools plus guidance for perfect results

• Value-Driven Upgrades: The builder's upgrades are often cheaper than going to home DIY store and doing it yourself

• Long-term Support: Success measured by your satisfaction

The Bottom Line: Why Choose Experience & Excellence?

Most sales agents offer:

• Basic product knowledge

• Standard builder relationships

• Minimum service levels

• Limited construction understanding

You get with Customize Your Home:

• Deep construction expertise from custom building background

• Carefully selected builder partnerships meeting my quality standards

• 28+ years of new home experience guiding your decisions

• Personal commitment to your long-term satisfaction

Your home is your largest investment. Shouldn't you work with someone who has the experience to ensure you get the best?

Ready to Experience the Customize Your Home Difference?

Contact me today to see how my 28+ years of experience, construction knowledge, and carefully selected builder partnerships deliver a home that exceeds your expectations - not your budget.

Work with Customize Your Home: Where my expertise meets premium construction, and your satisfaction is our priority.

At Customize Your Home: My experience protects your investment. My standards ensure your quality. My service guarantees your satisfaction.