Co‐founder and President, Rich Backus, is lead designer and project manager. Rich holds the following accreditations from the NAHB: Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) Certified Green Professional (CGP) Graduate Master Builder (GMB) Education Instructor Site & Plan Review Especially when the plans are prepared by others, we need to review together your home site, and the manner in which your plans work with the site. Similarly, thorough plan review usually highlights areas which need clarification or refinement. Specifications Detailed specifications are frequently omitted from residential home construction contracts. Hence the confusion and miscommunications common in the industry. A thorough list of specifications includes details from site preparation and foundation installation, through to fixture selection and door knobs desired. Budget The greater the accuracy of the written specifications, the greater the accuracy of the construction budget. Schedule A written schedule is also frequently omitted from home building contracts. We find it an important shared communication tool. It helps to highlight the relationships between varied phases of construction, as well as set timelines that vendors and trade contractors appreciate knowing and following. Construction Contract Obviously the secret to all successful relationships is communication. A thorough construction contract is essential to clarifying expectations, and ensuring that those expectations are fulfilled.

Rich Backus is dedicated to the Green Building Movement and holds the following accreditations: