Selecting a Builder...

One of the things that was the most difficult to figure out when we started this process was "who in the heck do we get to build this house"?  We contacted multiple builders and were surprised when, in this awful home building economy, very few responded to inquiries!  One of the ones we contacted and sent our plans to NEVER responded!  Now, I know that the economy is not that great right now, so why are builders not even returning emails?  We couldn't figure it out...

While I was searching on the internet for local builders, I ran across Olde Heritage from Zebulon.  I really liked their website which contained so much information about how they build in an environmentally friendly way.  Brian and I had talked about incorporating some green building techniques into our next home, but hadn't really taken a look at a truly green builder.  Brian sent them an email and received a response that SAME DAY!  So, we found a builder that was responsive...this was new.

We met with Chad Ray and instantly I felt like "this is the guy that is going to build our house".  Chad is really a salt-of-the-earth kind of guy.  He not only builds green, he LIVES green.  Chad and his family also own and operate Ray Family Farms which humanely and sustainably raises beef, pork and chicken.  They also grow produce and raise horses.  He believes 100% in what he does and gives back to the community and the environment. 

Some of the green building features that will be in our home are:
Tankless Hot Water Heater (and possibly roughed in for solar - waiting to see if we have enough sun exposure to do this)
Certified Energy Star Compliant
High quality insulation package exceeds code by 20%
Atruim windows - these have the highest energy star rating on the market
Drought tolerant and low maintenance landscaping
Refridgerants are CFC free
Energy Star Appliances
Composite decking materials
PET carpet technology with 100% recycled content improves indoor air quality
All glues, solvents, stains, paints, etc are low or no-VOC.
Fresh air ventilation capable of a full air exchange every 24 hours.
All light bulbs are CFL's.
And many more....

So, we found our builder and we are so happy that we found Chad Ray of Olde Heritage Builders!  We couldn't be more excited about building a home that is not only better for our family, but better for the environment.