The advantages of being an owner builder

In the realm of construction, the term "owner-builder" might be a relatively new concept to some, but it's a route that's gaining traction for a myriad of reasons. While many might instinctively lean towards hiring a General Contractor (GC) to oversee their construction project, there's a notable alternative that can offer you more control, savings, and a sense of accomplishment: becoming an owner-builder. In this article, we'll delve into the advantages of taking charge of your construction project with the help of industry experts like Keith Kelch and the experienced Findleton family.

1. Control and Personalization

One of the most significant advantages of being an owner-builder is the level of control you have over your project. Unlike with a General Contractor, you get to make every decision – from selecting materials, design details, and finishes to choosing contractors for various tasks. This control allows you to personalize every aspect of your build, ensuring that your vision becomes a reality.

With Keith Kelch's online training course and consulting services, you can harness his 35 years of experience as a General Contractor and educator. His methods and materials guide you through the process of handling inspections and achieving the same high-quality results that professionals deliver.

2. Cost Savings

A significant incentive for taking on the owner-builder role is the potential for substantial cost savings. When you hire a General Contractor, their fee typically ranges from 20% to 30% of the total construction cost. ($150K per parcel/$1.5M) By managing the project ourselves, we eliminate this extra expense, allowing our LLC to allocate those funds to other aspects of your build or even invest them elsewhere.
The Findleton family's expertise in various construction fields, from grading and foundations to electrical work and interior decoration, is invaluable. Their collaborative efforts can potentially save you money on hiring separate contractors for each specialized task, all while ensuring top-notch quality.

3. Avoiding Contracts and Change Orders

The traditional approach of hiring a General Contractor often involves complex contracts and change orders. These documents can lead to unexpected costs and disagreements. As an owner-builder, you have the ability to directly communicate with your chosen contractors and make adjustments on the fly. This streamlined process minimizes misunderstandings and helps keep your project on track.

4. Prop 13 Benefits and Tax Planning

Property tax rates, particularly in California, can be a significant consideration for property owners. Taking advantage of Prop 13 – a California initiative that locks in property tax rates upon final inspection – can lead to lower taxes year after year. With a buy-and-hold strategy, the savings gained through lower taxes can compound over time, providing a substantial financial benefit beyond avoiding capital gains tax.

5. Legacy and Shared Vision

When we undertake a construction project as an owner-builder, we're not just building a physical structure – you're creating a legacy. By involving family members like the Findletons, who bring their wealth of construction experience and expertise to the table, you're ensuring that the project becomes a shared endeavor that benefits current and future generations.

With a goal as inspiring as building the "9th Wonder of the World," you're not only constructing a physical space but also a hub of inspiration and transformation for families and communities. This shared vision and commitment to leaving a positive impact can be deeply fulfilling.

In conclusion, becoming an owner-builder empowers us to take control of our construction project, customize it to our preferences, and save costs in the process. By leveraging the expertise of individuals like Keith Kelch and the Findleton family, we can navigate the construction process with confidence and realize our dream while building a legacy for the future. Remember, the journey of building isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about shaping your vision and contributing positively to the world around us.