From Concept to Completion

An Overview of Our Process
Building a custom home requires effective planning and meticulous execution. At Apex Mountain Homes, we make the process of homebuilding as seamless, efficient and transparent as possible. With accurate cost projections and detailed construction protocols, we pledge to each client a project that will stay on budget, on time, and most importantly, on vision.


Forming the Team
We encourage all prospective homeowners to select a builder at the earliest stage of the planning process. Why is this important? In the case of Apex Mountain Homes, it gives us the opportunity to contribute our estimating expertise, and to use our cost projection tools when they matter most. Our involvement at an early stage allows clients to explore a full range of construction alternatives and costs, and guarantees that they won’t get too far down the design road with a home that doesn’t live up to their expectations or overextends their budget. Most importantly, early involvement builds trust between the owner, the architect and the builder. A productive partnership from the start fuels a fluid process in the middle and a beautiful home in the end.


Planning and Budgeting
Our proprietary tracking system offers a means to project and monitor costs, from the day we begin collaborating until the day we finish your home. With Apex Mountain Homes, there are no surprises—just clear processes that outline the choices a client must make, the specific costs of these choices, and a timetable for their selection. Because we have complete confidence in our ability to project accurate costs, we will consider the type of contract that makes the most sense for each client. Typically, these fall under two categories:

1. Cost Plus Fixed Fee. Using this method, Apex Mountain Homes develops a cost estimate based on final plans and specifications that includes a small contingency. The cost is determined by actual construction expenses, such as labor, subcontractor costs, and materials. Our fixed contractor’s fee does not fluctuate.

2. Guaranteed Maximum Price. Using this method, Apex Mountain Homes, the owner, and (optionally) the architect develop a joint cost specification comprised of three major elements: the construction portion, the customer selectable allowance portion, and the contractor fee. The construction portion of this figure determines the guaranteed maximum price the client pays. If the final construction cost is greater, the overage is absorbed by Apex Mountain Homes. If the final construction cost is less, the savings are divided between the owner and Apex Mountain Homes. Customer selectable allowances are excluded from this calculation.


Construction
Apex Mountain Homes is a schedule-oriented and cost-conscious builder. For each home, we maintain a Project Tracking Spreadsheet that is updated and presented to the client and the client’s financial institution (if desired) with each draw request. It provides a complete financial snapshot of the project.

Because of the wide range of variables comprising a custom home, Apex has found that cost per square foot estimates usually serve for rough project cost projections only. We prefer to generate exact figures during the design process and beyond, that acurately estimate project costs. Excluded in these figures are the cost of the lot, architectural fees, tap fees, and construction loan interest. The finished product assumptions for each home are defined in the specification, but typically include log and beam accents, in-floor heat, energy-efficient windows, superior R-value insulation, and energy-efficient heating systems. We firmly believe in building energy-efficient homes that will preserve resources and deliver energy savings for years to come.

As part of our service, during all phases of construction we will work closely with you to help choose owner selected allowance options such as countertops, fixtures, floor coverings, various finishes, and appliances. We have years of practical experience in knowing which products and building materials provide the greatest value for their cost. Whether you make these decisions with our staff or in consultation with your own designer, we will make sure that your choices meet your budget, your needs, and your expectations of quality.


Completion and Warranty
Perfection is in the execution of small details, and at no time is this more important than during the final stages of construction. At Apex Mountain Homes, our final punch list isn’t focused on meeting the minimum requirements of the building department. It’s focused on meeting the highest expectations of our clients. We conduct a thorough examination of every element in your home—from electrical and heating systems to appliances and fixtures. In addition to our standard one year warranty, we also include a one year evaluation to locate and repair any small defects that have developed. At Apex Mountain Homes, we’re committed to ensuring that every client enjoys a home that retains its beauty and functionality for years to come.

Lasting Relationships
Reduced to its essence, our work at Apex Mountain Homes is all about relationships. While we receive each award and accolade with gratitude, what brings us the most pride and satisfaction is maintaining regular contact with our previous clients. Each year we host a party for past, current and prospective clients. This annual event is more than a collection of clients—it is a gathering of friends. As the months and years pass, we enjoy staying in contact with our customers. If you are contemplating building a custom home in Summit County, we invite you to consider Apex Mountain Homes. We will work tirelessly to ensure that you too join our circle of satisfied home owners.