Dream Homes Rebuilding Blog – 1-27-17 Shore House Lifters Indicted ! A Real Scope of Work -Rebuilding seminar – Hometown Hero – RREM

January 28, 2017January 29, 2017 Vincent Simonelli of Dream Homes Ltd.2 Comments

Dream Homes Ltd.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Blog –

1-27-17

Hi Sandsters –

Hope all is well with you today.

Today I’ve got a ton of stuff for you. I have a recap of the last week, which was filled with seminars, awards, social engagements and events. (Quite a bit more activity than I am used to, but now that I have my Golden Hometown Hero Cape, I am bearing up under the pressure.) We bring back the Hall Of Shame and feature the Shore House Lifting Miscreants (Thanks Bill Gephardt for great comments on Facebook about how to pick an established contractor). There’s a whole bunch of interesting items for your consideration today.

***One of the more interesting items I include is a copy of one of our Estimate / Scope of Work, which shows you what a proper scope of work should look like, and the minimum standard that you should accept. If you are considering purchasing anything more complex than an 8’ x 16’ deck, you need to look at this and revise your expectations accordingly. It adds a few pages to this week’s blog, but if it helps you, it’s definitely worth the read.

We’ll talk about last week’s Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar, we’ll congratulate Kathy Dotoli, Esq. for her Top Ten in NJ Award for Customer Satisfaction, we’ll talk about our Hometown Hero Award from Brick, and we’ll mention the 2 Caravans where I spoke, which were sponsored by Gary Migliazza from City Abstract.

Finally, with absolutely no finesse or sense of style, we present lots of videos for your viewing pleasure. I’ve been trying to pay for someone to create landing pages in WordPress so I could group all our video together, but that seems to be beyond our capacity for some reason. (We manage multiple complex systems with 1000 steps and 50 simultaneous moving parts in each project, but unless I learn how to fix our blog page, we can’t seem to get it in order. Sigh. Help me, please.)

Anyway, here we go….to a galaxy far, far away….you can see me yakking away below if you didn’t get to the last seminar.

A Whole Bunch of Videos….Some fun, some helpful, some enlightening, some educational…

Here are 2 wonderful testimonials from two of our clients, who spoke at the Rebuilding seminar last week.

https://youtu.be/Wlq32ccpmrY Pat Daly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRp22IiCw-U Al Gashler

Thank you both – I’m honored that we’ve could help you!

Videos from the 1/18/17 Rebuilding Seminar – From Vince

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWX162QRlAs&t=6s Vince Simonelli – Change orders and Hometown Hero!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDEoyrqhV6Y Vince Simonelli – Being your own General Contractor – Elevations, flood insurance time frames, the cost / benefit equation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cAMXlXHq8s Vince Simonelli – Communication with your Builder & ICC funds

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVwDlrfqxf0 Vince Simonelli – Why We are Raise Our Homes!

Here’s a video of Dan Wheaton, Architect, who we work with on several our projects…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KWmN3eq4BM Dan Wheaton, Architect

Thieves and Lowlifes – The Hall of Shame

Breaking News!!!

Shore House Lifters FINALLY Charged by the Division of Consumer Fraud! Bye Bye Paul & Paul !!

(Unfortunately it’s a civil charge, and not criminal, which is a real shame. These guys did the same thing, over and over and over again…)

These guys deserve all they get and more for the pain and aggravation & loss they’ve caused so many people. They knew what they were doing. Assholes.

$1.2 million in theft – I’ve been warning people about this for 2 years.

http://www.app.com/story/news/local/brick-point-pleasant/point-pleasant-beach/2017/01/26/sandy-fraud-alleged-against-pt-pleasant-contractor/97086052/

Price Home Group – Interesting article – Another Interesting Group of Thieves –

Paraphrase: Do you guys really need to take $20,000 – $30,000 a month each in salary immediately, when you opened the company with $10,000?

http://www.app.com/story/news/local/ocean-county/sandy-recovery/2016/09/30/price-home-group-sandy-contractors-rrem/90125590/

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar –Wednesday a week and a half ago on January 18^th, 2017 we held our last Rebuilding Seminar, which was a great success. Since then we’ve taken on 2 new clients, one of whom we are rescuing from the infamous J&N Contracting. We also had 2 of our current clients attend and give us wonderful testimonials, which was a fantastic experience. Those videos are above if you want to view them. The seminar continues to be the most effective method for people who are just starting their projects, or who have been abandoned by other contractors to get answers and chart a path going forward. We’ve been holding them for 4 years now, we’re the only ones who make the effort and it is well worth it based on the number of people we’ve helped.

Our next Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar will be held on the Ides of March, which is Wednesday March 15th, 2017 from 6 pm at the Tuscan Bar and Grill on Hooper Avenue in Toms River, across from the Ocean County Mall. We’ll focus on Sandsters that are early in the process, and have not completed design work, or chosen a builder or architect. We offer engineering & architectural design advice, RREM guidance at the initial stages, and help with choosing the right builder or contractor. Please call to reserve a space if you would like to attend since refreshments will be served and space is limited.

Congratulations again to Kathy! We’d like to offer a special congratulation to Kathleen Dotoli, a worker’s compensation and disability attorney in Toms River. Kathy regularly gives an excellent consumer protection presentation at our Rebuilding Seminars Kathy was recognized with a very prestigious award – she was voted one of the Top Ten Attorneys in NJ for Client Satisfaction in the area of Disability Law. Way to go Kathy – much deserved!!

You can find out more about Kathy Dotoli and her legal practice at https://www.facebook.com/TomsRiverWorkersCompLawyer/

Dream Homes Team and Vince Simonelli – Hometown Hero Award in Brick Township!

The Hometown Hero ceremony was last Friday, January 20^th at 7 pm at Brick High School. I received a Golden Hometown Hero Cape (which I wearing 24 hours a day since then.) You’ll be able to recognize me on the street since I’ll probably be the only guy walking around with a Golden Cape and sandals.

I gave a short speech, thanking our great Dream Homes team, Bob Steimle for nominating us and the teachers and administration in Brick Township for holding such a great program.

Needless to say, we’re quite proud of the nomination! This award is given in Bricktown to people and companies who do nice things to help people in need. Our great team has helped an unfortunate Sandster – a good guy named Bob Steimle. Thanks for the kind words and recommendation Bob! I’m happy we could help.

Dream Homes is very honored to receive the Hometown Hero award. It represents the spirit of who we are and we hope to embody that spirit every day going forward.

Mission Statement and Comment: We’re here to help you when no one else will. We regularly handle the messiest, most unpleasant, real estate, construction and renovation situations. We do the projects that no one else can do, and help people finish their projects and get back in their homes. If you’re stuck and can’t figure out how to proceed, call us and we’ll do our best to help you.

There’s Real…and then there’s Memorex…(am I dating myself again??)

Sandsters, here’s What an Estimate and Scope of Work is Supposed to Look Like…

(Forgive the formatting mistakes, I just grabbed a spreadsheet and copied it in to the blog. If they make you crazy, email me and I’ll send you a spreadsheet with a sample scope of work.)

Estimates for custom or semi- custom new homes should be 3-5 detailed pages, as well as a standard features list. Elevation projects should have scopes of work between 4 – 8 pages, and they should be extremely detailed. If they are not detailed, the person who did them does not know your project well enough to build it.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

A wholly owned subsidiary of Dream Homes Ltd.

314 S. Main Street, Forked River, NJ 08731

Mailing: PO Box 627, Forked River, NJ 08731

1/25/2017 Office: 609 693 8881 Fax: 609 693 3802 Cell: 732 300 5619

Estimate Scope of work Happy Homeowner

123 Satisfied Street, All Over, NJ

Description: This elevation project shall include completing the helical pile foundation and installing a new grade beam, as per plan. Concrete block will be installed and a new floor system will be constructed.

The house will be lowered onto the new floor, and all necessary bolts, straps and connections will be made.

Reinstall the existing furnace & boiler and new hot water heater in their old locations on the new floor system.

Install new hot water baseboard in new bedroom and repair hot water baseboard in cedar room.

We will install engineered wood flooring in the entire house, except sun & utility room, which will be ceramic tile.

A new bathroom with shower will be built and the existing kitchen will be reinstalled.

A new composite 38′ x 8′ wraparound deck w/vinyl rail will be built in the rear with stairs built to grade.

A new composite 4’x6′ composite deck w/vinyl rail will be built in the front, with stairs built to grade.

The existing electrical service will be elevated to > BF +1, as required.

All utilities will be reconnected from the street, and all electric, gas, water and sewer will be reconnected at the house.

Most importantly, at the end of your project, you will be our 1592nd satisfied homeowner since 1993.

Detail SCOPE OF WORK

Preparation, Mobilization & Elevation, as appropriate

Submit plans, surveys, plot plan, building & zoning permits, as needed

Mobilize equipment and machinery, prepare site

Disconnect/cut and cap water/sewer

Lower house onto new foundation.

Demo & Removal

Demo / saw cut existing slab as needed, to install new pilings and footings for piers

Foundation – Pilings

Install and certify 8″ steel helical piles, up to 15′ in depth, up to 3 piles

Foundation – Concrete

Exterior concrete block 8″x16″, new, < 15 courses

Install Smart Vent or equivalent flood vents, up to 8 vents

Bolts, rebar, strapping, all necessary hardware

Install concrete lintels over foundation openings, as required

Apply smooth mortar parge coat to all exterior concrete block

Engineered fill, to elevate crawl to outside grade (per cubic yard), 1 load, 20 cubic yards

16″x16″ concrete block piers, pilasters or steel lolly columns, < 3 pcs.

8″x16″ CMU block piers/pilasters, < 6 pcs.

Footings for piers, 24″x 24″ x 18″ dig, form, rebar, concrete, < 3 pcs

Footing/grade beam, 24″x18″, form, rebar, concrete

12″ concrete sonotube footings for exterior platform & stairs, < 14 pcs

4″ concrete slab under house, patch as needed, < 400 SF

Install 2 x 2 patio blocks at bottom of stairs/entries, 4′ x 4′ or as needed, front & rear

Framing & general carpentry

Repair/replace sill plate – 2″ x 6″ treated lumber

Install H 2.5 hurricane clips from girders to new floor/ceiling joists, roof rafter, for code

Install triple 2″ x 8″ girders/joists, for girders, as per plan

Install triple 2″ x 10″ joists under house, create girder, as per plan

Remove door to exterior in utility room, patch in sheathing, sheetrock & siding.

Pin in closet, left rear of house, insulate, repair siding and sheathing

Floor System & Platforms

Build / raise AC platform / brackets, exterior, 2 pcs or wider

Elevated 2″ x 8″ floor system, with 3/4″ t&g sub floor, < 960 sq ft

Elevated 2″ x 10″ floor system, with 3/4″ t&g sub floor, < 250 sq ft

Windows

Install new Silverline double hung 36″ x 46″ window, lower level, 4 pcs

Material allowance: $200 per window

Garage Doors

Install 1/2 HP garage door opener, 1 pc(s).

Install new 8′ x 7′ Clopay or Haas garage door, vinyl, insulated, allowance $900 per door

Doors

Install new exterior 36″ door(s), from garage & basement, 2 pcs

Install new 72″ Silverline or American Craftsman sliding glass door, 1st floor, 1 pc(s)

Material allowance: $800 per door

Siding, Gutters & Leaders, Cultured Stone, Trim Board

Repair and replace siding, match existing as closely as possible

Note: Cedar Impressions in front, and standard vinyl siding in rear and sides

Extend / install new, gutter downspouts and leaders, < 80 LF

Install new Certainteed siding, below existing, < 900 sq ft

Includes corners, starter strip, J channel, faschia

Install new Cedar Impression siding in front of house, < 200 square feet

Extend down to 2′ from grade

Roofing

Not included in the scope of this estimate – to be estimated separately as needed

Insulation

Install faced R19 Insulation, in floor, as needed, < 1220 sq ft

Sheetrock & cement board

Repair sheetrock cracks, as needed, ready for paint

Install 2 layers 5/8″ sheetrock, garage ceiling

Install 1 layer 1/2″ sheetrock for walls, lower 4′ throughout house

Interior – General

Reinstall existing kitchen, sink, appliances, counters

Install new vanity, sink, faucet, toilet, shower valve & diverters

Tile surround with tile bed

Tile allowance is $2 per sq ft (floor & wall)

Fixture allowance for vanity, sink & faucet: $400

Install floor drain w/overflow pan for washer, new laundry room (if required)

Supply and Install baseboard molding, as needed, < 220 LF

Install chair rail in sunroom, as needed, < 55 LF

Carpet & Flooring

Install 3/4 oak hardwood throughout house, < 1000 sq ft

Note: Homeowner to supply engineered hardwood flooring

Install tile in sun & utility room, $2.00 psf material allowance, up to 340 sq ft.

Install underlayment – 1/4″ plywood for bath

Paint

Paint new sheetrock 2 coats, lower walls where repaired

Stain sunroom in rear, walls, < 500 sq ft

Plumbing, HVAC & other mechanical

Repair baseboard heat as needed, sunroom

Install new baseboard heat in garage/MBR, to existing boiler, < 40 linear feet

Lower and reconnect outdoor shower, plumbing only – leave structure at grade

Insulate pipes w/foam under floor, as needed

Reconnect washer & dryer – in new laundry room

Lower hose bib(s), 1 pc.

Install hose bibs, 1 rear left, 1 front garage, 1 covered porch

Add washer and dryer location to new laundry, addition

Reroute all water lines into floor joists

Reconnect / reset furnace on new floor

Reconnect boiler

Install new 50-gallon hot water heater

Electrical: Install exterior waterproof outlet box, front & rear stairs, needed for code, 2 pcs

Install wiring and ceiling lights in basement, 4 pcs.

Install switches as per new plan, < 2 pcs

Install exterior lights, front and rear, homeowner to provide fixture, 2 pcs.

Junction box for garage door openers

Install smoke detector(s) / CO2, basement, < 1 pc(s)

Lower & reconnect electrical meter and service as required

Platforms, Entries, Stairs & Rails, Elevators & Lifts

New 38′ x 4′ wraparound Trex composite deck, vinyl rail & stairs to grade, 13 steps, < 220 SF New 4′ x 6′ platform & stairs w/vinyl rail to grade, front,

Install additional 4′ x 17′ section, rear, including pilings or footings, < 180 SF

Note: Stairs to be from platform at hot tub end of deck towards house, 12 steps

Install additional 4′ x 20′ section, left rear, including pilings or footings, < 80 SF

Trex composite decking, revise plan, 12 steps towards right

Lead Remediation

Not included in the scope of this estimate – to be estimated separately as needed

Asbestos Remediation

Not included in the scope of this estimate – to be estimated separately, as needed

Landscaping, Fencing & Pavers

Not included in the scope of this estimate – to be estimated separately as needed

Miscellaneous & Finish

Repair exterior sheathing after lift, < 100 sq ft

Reconnect electric, plumbing & gas to house

Reconnect water and sewer to house after elevation

Final cleaning – construction & site

Jobsite dumpster, or remove debris – one 30 yard

Temporary toilet

Insurance: general liability, worker’s compensation

esign / Survey stage – In addition to Scope of Work (By Dream Building or others)

Engineering & architectural design – foundation, footing and piers, entries

Survey work – foundation as-built, final survey & final flood elevation certificate

Design stage – In addition to Scope of Work

Elevation, foundation, and all items as per the scope of work above:

Design/Survey stage

Total – entire project – all items as per scope of work above

Notes & Comments – General

This estimate is based on installation of new grade beam and concrete block, as per plan.
This estimate is based on plans and engineered drawings dated 11/7/13 and may change if plans change.

2a. This estimate based on raising the house to approximate finished floor elevation 12.85 from previous FF elevation 4.3 (NAVD 88)

This estimate is valid for 30 days, after which prices may fluctuate based on market conditions.
This estimate does not include township zoning or building permits, which are estimated to be < $1500

4a. This estimate includes 1 dumpster. Additional dumpsters billed at $675 each.

4b. If permits are issued between October 1st and February 28th, an additional cost of $400 will be added to winterize plumbing in house.

This estimate does not include landscape, sprinkler repair, or fence, yard, driveway or sidewalk restoration, except as noted.
This estimate does not include paver/driveway removal/replacement, except as noted.
Fill (in addition to 1 load included) that is needed to elevate crawl or grade will be billed at $24 per C/Y, or $480 per load.
All decking & stairs in front & rear to be Trex Select composite with white trim, and vinyl railing.
Additional flood vents shall be billed at $185 per vent, if required by township.
This estimate does not include movement of utility poles or electric, cable or phone wires at the street.
Contractor is not responsible for structural defects in the fireplaces or chimneys. Repairs shall be estimated as needed.
Contractor is not responsible for plumbing leaks caused by poor winterization. Repairs shall be estimated as needed.
Though care will be taken when removing and resetting hard surface counters, contractor is not responsible for damage to same.

Homeowner Signature: _________________________________________

Contractors Signature : _________________________________________ Date

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

Terms and Conditions

Licensed Building company: Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

License information: New Home Builder License #: 045894 Home Improvement Contractor Registration #:13VH07489000

Project start and duration: This project is estimated to take no longer than 150 days from receipt of building permit and will start

upon receipt of building permit from township. Receipt of certificate of occupancy shall constitute completion of project.

Any items remaining on a punch list shall be completed within 30 days.

Deposit & Cancellation: From the date of the signing of this agreement, the homeowner may cancel within 3 days for any reason.

Notice of cancellation should be signed and in writing and either fax or email notification is acceptable.

Should this agreement be properly cancelled, any deposit money shall be returned in full within 30 days

Deposit upon signing shall be 5% of contract, with payments to be made as per our payment schedule.

Legal, billing & changes: Homeowner agrees that any dispute which they may choose to pursue arising from this agreement shall be

settled by arbitration or under any applicable new home warranty. Any necessary arbitration shall occur in Ocean County, NJ.

Invoices are due upon receipt and shall be based on the pricing above in each category.

Balances over 30 days may be subject to legal and collection fees and interest at 1.0% per month.

Invoices past due may cause your project to be delayed. Contractor reserves the right to stop working until payments are current.

Payment to contractor shall not be contingent upon receipt of funds from any outside source.

Changes to the scope of work must be in writing and may incur a $250 charge per change order.

Homeowner agrees that images of the project may be used in various advertising venues, including print, internet and mailing.

Items cannot be removed from the scope of work without written agreement from both parties. Homeowner shall not work on or have any

contractors work on the project without written consent from Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC.

Entry on property during construction: Homeowner agrees that for insurance reasons, Client will not enter project site during construction

without a representative from Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

By signing this estimate, I Vincent Simonelli, Member, affirm that the information within is true and accurate, that I’m an authorized representative

of Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC and can bind the entity to this estimate. I have visited and examined the project site and have examined

any existent plans & specifications, and will execute this contract and perform all its items and conditions and will provide, furnish and deliver.

Reminder: If you’ve been ripped off by any dishonest contractor and are stuck, call us and we’ll help you. You may qualify for a $2000 credit towards your project.

Yeah, We Do That for You… This was an excellent (if I do say so myself) article from the 1/8/17 blog, which received much positive response from many people. If you missed it, go back and read it now at http://blog.dreamhomesltd.com

Definitions & Important Considerations That Can Delay Your Project: See previous blogs

Remember – if you have a specific question, send me an email or a text. Don’t wait for a seminar or a site visit to clarify a point. Whether you are Dream Homes/Atlantic Northeast Construction client or not, I’ll always try and help you or guide you in the right direction. If you’ve sent an email or left a voice mail and haven’t received a response, try and contact me again. Messages are lost occasionally.

Note to Sandsters: Though I write this blog to help guide Sandsters and others through the maze that is any reconstruction project, we actually do what I write about. Dream Homes Ltd. and Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC are new home builders and general contractors who are actively renovating and reconstructing projects up and down the shore. We supervise and manage elevation projects & house moves, demolish and build new homes, and develop and build entire new neighborhoods. In the past 23 years, we’ve completed over 1500 new homes, 150 elevation projects and 500,000 square feet of commercial buildings. We work with private clients as well as Path B clients in the RREM program. Call, text or email to set up an appointment for a free estimate on your rebuilding project.

That’s all for today Sandsters. I hope my words helps you move forward and I hope to see you at the seminar later tonight. As always, call or write with any questions.

Regards,

Vince Simonelli

Dream Homes Ltd.

Virtual Learning Company Inc. (Nasdaq VRTR)

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

New Home Builder #045894

Home Improvement Contractor #13VH07489000

PO Box 627

Forked River, NJ 08731

Office: 609 693 8881 F: 609 693 3802 Cell: 732 300 5619

Email: vince@dreamhomesltd.com

Website: www.dreamhomesltd.com

Blog: http://blog.dreamhomesltd.com

Twitter: #foxbuilder

New Homes & Rebuilds in Ocean, Monmouth & Atlantic County

Dream Homes Rebuilding Blog – 1-18-17 – So You Really Wanna Be a Builder? Rebuilding Seminar Tonight Tuscan Bistro 6 PM

January 18, 2017 Vincent Simonelli of Dream Homes Ltd.1 Comment

Dream Homes Ltd.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Blog –

1-18-17

Hi Sandsters –

Hope all is well with you today. Today I have a short blog for your review.

Following up on one of the topics in Sunday’s blog, here’s an excellent brief summary about why you really don’t want to GC your own project. I’ve edited a little, but the following is an email conversation between myself and Scott Lepley, an architect in Bayville who we’ve worked with for over 20 years.

Scott wrote to me yesterday…

“Hey Vincent, one main point on the fallacy of acting as your own GC: if you don’t have friendly contacts, if you’re going to be calling names from a phone book, if your subs realize they’re only doing one job for you vs the 20 jobs a year they do for any GC they work for, you will get prices that will be so high that you will end up spending more money than if you hired a GC and paid him a fair percentage. Case in point: we are building a new home on LBI right now, 2 framers that I thought I had good relationships with gave me prices of $49,000 and $35,000 to frame our home. Travis’ framer did the job for $21,000. (Over the years) I repeatedly have seen savings working through a GC on almost all phases of the project, although the framing was the biggest number.”

I responded…

“You’re absolutely correct Scott – I’ve written that exact scenario as well as many other reasons in the Rebuilding blog a number of times. No one wants to believe that, but it is absolutely true.

A repetitive volume of steady work consistently creates discounted, fair pricing, 99% of the time.

One additional item you didn’t mention was that a “Relationship Based” project (which is what you have with steady subcontractors) ensures that companies will be around to address any warranty issues. A “Transaction Based” project (which is what one has when building one project on an individual retail basis) doesn’t offer any type of loyalty or incentive for fair pricing.

Hiring a general contractor doesn’t cost you money – it saves you money.”

Thoughts to ponder.

3 Brief Repeats from Sunday’s blog – See details below for each one of these topics

Tonight’s Rebuilding Seminar – 3 spaces left –
Congratulations to Kathy Dotoli, Esq. for her Top Ten Award for Customer Satisfaction
Hometown Hero Award from Brick – Dream Homes to receive on Friday night 1/20/17 at 7 pm.

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar – Tonight Wednesday January 18^th, 2017 – 6 PM – Tuscan Bistro in Toms River. Provenance & History : We’ve been holding this seminar for 4 years and counting; we are the only company actually bothering to tell you how to intelligently complete an improvement or renovation.

Our next Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar will be held this Wednesday January 18th, 2017 from 6 pm at the Tuscan Bar and Grill on Hooper Avenue in Toms River, across from the Ocean County Mall. We’ll focus on Sandsters that are early in the process, and have not completed design work, or chosen a builder or architect. We offer engineering & architectural design advice, RREM guidance at the initial stages, and help with choosing the right builder or contractor. Please call to reserve a space if you would like to attend since refreshments will be served and space is limited.

Congratulations to Kathy! We’d like to offer a special congratulations to Kathleen Dotoli, a worker’s compensation and disability attorney in Toms River. Kathy regularly gives an excellent consumer protection presentation at our Rebuilding Seminars (you can hear her again this Wednesday, 1/18/17). Kathy was recognized with a very prestigious award – she was voted one of the Top Ten Attorneys in NJ for Client Satisfaction in the area of Disability Law. Way to go Kathy – much deserved!!

You can find out more about Kathy Dotoli and her legal practice at https://www.facebook.com/TomsRiverWorkersCompLawyer/

Dream Homes and Vince Simonelli have been nominated as one of the recipients of the Hometown Hero Award in Brick Township! Thanks to all the people (clients, competitors and trade partners) who have called us to congratulate us and wish us well – your kind words are appreciated.

Needless to say, we’re quite proud of the nomination! This award is given in Bricktown to people and companies who do nice things to help people in need. Our great team has helped an unfortunate Sandster – a really good guy named Bob Steimle. Thanks for the kind words and recommendation Bob! I’m happy we were able to help.

The Hometown Hero ceremony is this Friday, January 20^th at 7 pm at Brick High School. I originally thought I would receive a Golden Cape (which I was planning to (modestly) wear 24 hours a day for the next 8 years, other than during times of disaster or civil emergency (or rather, for certain during those dark times) And yes, that is perfectly normal behavior.) but it turns out that it is an ordinary colored cape. That’s ok – I’ll probably still wear it 24/7 so – have no fear – you’ll be able to recognize me on the street since I’ll be the middle age guy with the cape and sandals.

I will also get to give a lengthy, in depth speech (of approximately 30 seconds), which I promise will enthrall the multitudes gathered that evening. Do not miss it! If you do, it will probably be enshrined in the Library of Congress, so don’t worry…

So please join us on the 20^th of January at Brick High School. Go to the Brick web site and sign up for a ticket or just show up!!

All kidding aside, Dream Homes is very honored to receive the Hometown Hero award. It represents the spirit of who we are and we hope to embody that spirit every day going forward.

Reminder: If you’ve been ripped off by any dishonest contractor and are stuck, call us and we’ll help you. You may qualify for a $2000 credit towards your project.

Yeah, We Do That for You… This was an excellent (if I do say so myself) article from last week’s 1/8/17 blog, which received much positive response from many people. If you missed it, go back and read it now at http://blog.dreamhomesltd.com

Definitions & Important Considerations That Can Delay Your Project: See previous blogs

That’s all for today Sandsters. I hope my words helps you move forward and I hope to see you at the seminar later tonight. As always, call or write with any questions.

Regards,

Vince

Dream Homes Ltd.

Virtual Learning Company Inc.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

New Home Builder #045894

Home Improvement Contractor #13VH07489000

PO Box 627

Forked River, NJ 08731

Office: 609 693 8881 F: 609 693 3802 Cell: 732 300 5619

Email: vince@dreamhomesltd.com

Website: www.dreamhomesltd.com

Blog: http://blog.dreamhomesltd.com

Twitter: #foxbuilder

Dream Homes Building/Rebuilding Blog – RREM ClawBack Madness – Being your Own GC and other Insane Habits – Rebuilding Seminar 1/18/17 at Tuscan Bistro – Hometown Hero!

January 15, 2017 Vincent Simonelli of Dream Homes Ltd.Leave a comment

Dream Homes Ltd.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Blog –

1-15-17

Good morning and Happy Sunday to all of you, Sandsters and others!

Today the weather is much nicer than a week ago, when we were sitting with back to back snow storms…today should be a high of 47, which is pretty good.

More importantly, since December 21^st (the Winter Solstice), we have added 26 minutes of daylight to each of our days!! That is so encouraging…more daylight makes everything in life more palatable.

Today, we have a passel of things for you. We talk about the latest RREM Rip-off, the Clawback Nightmare and how to avoid this whole (potentially costly) situation. We touch on being your own GC, which I continue to feel is similar to amputating your own appendage or performing your own root canal. For a repeat, I’ve been nominated a Home Town Hero in Brick Township for nice things our great team has done for an unfortunate Sandster, a good guy named Bob Steimle. The ceremony is this Friday January 20^th. We also remind you about our next Rebuilding Seminar, which is this Wednesday January 18^th. I also brought the Definitions section back at the end of the blog, for your convenience.

Congratulations!! We’d like to offer a special congratulations to Kathleen Dotoli, a worker’s compensation and disability attorney in Toms River. Kathy regularly gives an excellent consumer protection presentation at our Rebuilding Seminars (you can hear her again this Wednesday, 1/18/17). Kathy was recognized with a very prestigious award – she was voted one of the Top Ten Attorneys in NJ for Client Satisfaction in the area of Disability Law. Kathy’s been a great help to many Sandsters and we’re proud to have her as part of our professional family. Way to go Kathy – this award is much deserved!!

You can find out more about Kathy Dotoli and her legal practice at https://www.facebook.com/TomsRiverWorkersCompLawyer/

Repeat: I mention another repeat, which was in last week’s blog, called “Yeah we do that for you”. If you didn’t catch it last week, it’s worth reading.

Being Your Own General Contractor …Is that Wise? See Details below for more info…

January (1/18/17) Dream Homes Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar – Rain or Shine – Hot or Cold

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar – This Wednesday January 18^th, 2017 – 6 PM – Tuscan Bistro in Toms River. Provenance & History : We’ve been holding this seminar for 4 years and counting; we are the only company actually bothering to tell you how to intelligently complete an improvement or renovation.

(There’s more information in last week’s blog, so if you missed that one, go back and read it…)

Needless to say, we’re quite proud of the nomination! This award is given in Bricktown to people and companies who do nice things to help people in need. Our great team has helped an unfortunate Sandster – a really good guy named Bob Steimle. Thanks for the kind words and recommendation Bob! I’m happy we were able to help.

The Hometown Hero ceremony is January 20^th at 7 pm at Brick High School. I originally thought I would receive a Golden Cape (which I was planning to (modestly) wear 24 hours a day for the next 8 years, other than during times of disaster or civil emergency (or rather, for certain during those dark times) And yes, that is perfectly normal behavior.) but it turns out that it is an ordinary colored cape. That’s ok – I’ll probably still wear it 24/7 so – have no fear – you’ll be able to recognize me on the street since I’ll be the middle age guy with the cape and sandals.

So please join us on the 20^th of January at Brick High School. Go to the Brick web site and sign up for a ticket or just show up!!

All kidding aside, Dream Homes is very honored to receive the Hometown Hero award. It represents the spirit of who we are and we hope to embody that spirit every day going forward.

Reminder: If you’ve been ripped off by any dishonest contractor and are stuck, call us and we’ll help you. You may qualify for a $2000 credit towards your project.

RREM Rip Off – Clawback Madness: Ok, we’re back to needing to call or write Kim Guadagno…or the people that spoke to us last time we wrote a letter. Of course, nothing much has happened yet, but hope springs eternal and the wheels of RREM progress grind slooooooowwwwlllyy, so we’ll be patient about waiting for homeowner fraud to be fixed, the RREM payment and closeout schedules to be sped up and the repeat fraud issue from contractors to be improved.

The Clawback issue is a whole other issue, which is rapidly turning into a full-blown disaster. George Kasimos from Stop Fema Now has been on this issue for couple of years and it’s now starting to come to a head. It will be the Next Great RREM Debacle, Major Issue #4.

Here’s the Important Point to Remember: The short version is that if you don’t do all the items on your RREM scope of work/ECR, your program manager at the final walk through will identify any missing items and Claw Back the money from you.

There is little or no common sense in this process, since CBI and Gilbane (thought 2 of the largest construction management companies in the country) do not generally have construction personnel working as program managers, but accounting clerks and paper pushers. That means that if you don’t fix the interior door to a closet that you don’t really need or care about, some idiot is going to not it on your sheet and ask for the $114 back.

Before we discuss the idiocy and lack of thought inherent in this business model, let’s talk about how to avoid it entirely. You can avoid this issue by giving your builder or contractor the RREM scope of work in the beginning when your project is first being estimated, and specifically asking for an estimate based on all of the RREM scope. Important Note: There is absolutely nothing wrong with doing minor finish items yourself – simply don’t include them in your builder’s major scope of work (what I call the heavy rigging – elevation, foundation, pilings, borings, floor systems, strapping and bolting, utility reconnection, etc.).

Just be aware that someone must complete these items – or the amounts shown on the non-redacted scopes of work – are the amounts that RREM has allowed for these items – and the amounts that will be deducted if these items aren’t completed.

Minor finish items include paint, trim, general clean up, hanging ceiling fans, light sheetrock, reconnecting some appliances, final clean up, etc. Again, you can do these items yourself to save money.

Note: You must ask your RREM program manager for the ECR/Scope of work with the pricing. They do not simply give it to you with your original package (Insane RREM Practice #684). If RREM is paying you more for that item than you are paying, obviously you will have your builder complete those items.

The lunacy inherent in this entire process can be described simply – Instead of awarding a lump sum of money and requiring only that the critical, life-safety and code compliance issues are completed without worrying about aesthetic and finish items, RREM very specifically goes through each and every item and asks for money back if items are not completed.

That’s not how your insurance company does it. If you accept an insurance award, if you return your house to a livable condition with a certificate of occupancy, they don’t give a fig is you change the doorknob in bedroom #3.

IE: Let’s inject a little common sense into the final RREM scope evaluations and grant closeouts.

The only items that matter are as follows: 1) Bringing the elevation of the home into compliance with the new flood codes 2) Obtaining a certificate of occupancy after passing all mechanical, building and engineering inspections 3) Providing a new survey and flood elevation certificate showing the house and all mechanicals are safely out of the flood plain.

In other moronic, insane developments, the RREM Scopes of Work are sometimes changing in midstream, without the Sandster being informed until the end. The solution to this is ironically easier – you must file suit against the DCA (or realistically join a class action suit currently in process), in the same way you would sue a dishonest contractor who changed the terms of the contract in the middle of the project.

Solution to avoiding RREM Claw back: Have a very clear idea what you are obligated to do for your RREM grant, and who on your team is doing each item.

Acting as Your Own General Contractor….

Many Sandsters have read my numerous articles on this subject. In deference to the well- meaning Sandsters on Facebook on the Stop Fema Now Thread, acting as your own general contractor is not a good idea about 95% of the time. You may notice that I specify general contractor, as opposed to any work at all.

I’ve said repeatedly in the past, and state again 5 paragraphs above, that there is nothing wrong with doing your own finish work (a good list is above) in your house to save money. It doesn’t matter if it’s a new home or a renovation, that’s a good rule of thumb.

However, doing your own general contracting, unless you are literally living on the street and have no other alternative (in which case you probably won’t be able to finish your job anyway), you should retain a professional to manage your project.

In much the same way you wouldn’t perform your own root canal or other medical procedure, act as your own attorney, do your own electrical, HVAC or plumbing work, repair your own car, or do your own taxes or financial planning, you definitely shouldn’t run the major aspects of your own project.

Currently, we have 28 active projects (6 new homes and 22 moves/renovations/elevations) and 8 of them are projects that we call Rescues. Rescue Projects are where the builder is in jail, took off with money, can’t finish, or completed such poor work that the job was stopped by the township.

Home elevations and new home construction are not items you want to undertake yourself unless you meet at least 5 of the following 5 conditions:

1) you are already planning a divorce or don’t speak to your spouse much, since when the project doesn’t work out it will be your fault or

2) you have some type of architectural, mechanical, engineering or construction background and have done this type of work before and

3) you plan to devote your attention to the project on a full-time basis and

4) you are flexible, calm, organized, a fantastic communicator and have a demented twisted sense of humor. It helps if you are familiar with Chaos and Game Theory.

5) you have money in reserve so if (when) you screw something up, you can afford to pay to fix it.

Really, truly I speak the truth unto you Sandsters. Don’t try this at home. If you try and fix your car, do your own taxes or perform your own root canal and they don’t work out, you can fix these items fairly easily. If you get in the middle of a home elevation with your house up in the air and run out of money, patience, ideas or the ability to continue, you’re in a bad pickle.

Do the finish work to save money – leave the heavier work to the professionals.

Besides all that, you will rarely save money and it will most definitely take much longer.

Definitions & Important Considerations That Can Delay Your Project:

RREM Program Manager: RREM Program Managers DO NOT supervise the construction of your project. You do, as you should, since it is you that is responsible for how the money is spent. RREM Program Managers manage the paper flow for your project, authorize payment disbursements and (try to) lead you through the confusing RREM maze. That’s it. Nothing further.

They do not consult with you on construction process, give legal advice or comment on who you should choose as your builder, or advise if they are competent and stable.

You are the only person responsible to oversee the professionals you hire. A sobering truth, but one worth remembering.

Lowest adjacent grade (LAG): This is an important elevation since the lowest point in your crawl space must be even or above the LAG. That is important because even if you don’t want your crawl filled that much (so you have more storage space) you will not pass final zoning / final building if this condition is not met. LAG is defined as the lowest grade immediately next to your house. There can easily be a foot or more difference between one side and the other, or back to front, so if you wish to use the least amount of fill (maximizing room in the crawl) make sure you find the lowest adjacent elevation.

Elevation: Elevation refers to “height above sea level” and not the height above grade at the house or distance the house is being elevated. The numbers on your Flood Elevation Certificate indicate how high in vertical feet your crawl, finished floor and grade are above the sea level at the ocean beach. It’s easy to make a mistake with these descriptions and it causes much confusion. Example: If you are raising your home to elevation 11, your finished floor is 6 and your grade is 4.5, you are raising your house 5’ to elevation 11, or 6.5’ above grade. When you use the expression “elevating my home 5 feet” that means you are lifting it 5’ from where it is now. The expression “building or raising the home to elevation 11” refers to the height above sea level, not the distance you are lifting.

Footprint: A building “footprint” is defined as the disturbed area of the lowest level including the garage.

Ex: a 1200 square foot ranch with a 240 square foot deck has a footprint of 1440 square feet.

Survey: An exact depiction of what exists on your lot, from a top view.

Plot plan: A top view of what you are proposing to build, including new heights, stairs, entries, decks, etc.

These two items are not the same and you will need both for your project.

HVAC Elevation height in crawl space: This must be considered when planning your lift. This is the elevation of the lowest duct, furnace or air handler in your crawl space. Most townships require a minimum elevation of base flood, some townships have no restriction, and some are at minimum BF + 1 to the bottom.

Design scope: These costs are defined as architectural and engineering fees, all survey costs (survey, plot plan, foundation as built, flood elevation certificate and final survey), soil boring & geotechnical costs, cribbing diagrams, permit fees, soil conservation design, and wind load calculations.

Please note – you do not get $15,000 in cash to spend on your design scope. You get up to $15,000, depending on what your actual costs are. So, if your design costs are $9,200 you get $9,200. If they are $14,000, you get $14,000. If they are $16,600, you get $15,000. The balance of any remaining money in the $15,000 design scope budget does not go back into your grant and you don’t get to keep the extra cash.

If you signed your grant prior to October 1, 2014, you are not eligible for the extra $15,000 in design scope funding. Note: I have seen a number of clients kick, scream & please enough to have the $15,000 added to their grant, even though they had signed before 10/1/14, but that is not the policy.

Contingency costs: This item is part of your grant package and is designed to provide for unforeseen events or conditions that must be corrected in order to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) and finish your project.

These are not mistakes, omissions or errors on your part, your builder’s part or the design professional that did the plans. Rather they are items that are not knowable or evident in the actual structure until it is elevated, or the result of one of the shore townships deciding arbitrarily to change, invent or augment the existing building code. These items include (but are definitely not limited to) rotten or termite infested sheathing, wall studs or sill plates, twisted, broken or rotten girders, site conditions or changes needed to comply with current codes which were not in place when the house is built, upgrades to water pits or valves required by the MUA, installation of hard wired smoke & CO2 detectors, installation of condensate lines to the exterior from the dryer, and many other items that we’ve encountered. These items should be itemized by your builder in a separate sheet and submitted to RREM. 95% of the time you will be reimbursed.

There is not a monetary limit to this contingency, although it is generally 5% – 10% of the grant amount. The contingency does not come out of your grant award.

That’s all for today Sandsters. I hope my words helps you move forward and I hope to see you at the seminar on the 18^th. As always, call or write with any questions.

Regards,

Vince

Dream Homes Ltd.

Virtual Learning Company Inc.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

New Home Builder #045894

Home Improvement Contractor #13VH07489000

PO Box 627

Forked River, NJ 08731

Office: 609 693 8881 F: 609 693 3802

Cell: 732 300 5619

Email: vince@dreamhomesltd.com

Website: www.dreamhomesltd.com

Blog: http://blog.dreamhomesltd.com

Twitter: #foxbuilder

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Dream Homes Nearly Famous Rebuilding Blog – 1-8-17 -Why use Dream Homes? “Yeah, We Do That For You” – Hometown Hero Award in Brick – Rebuilding Seminar 1-18-16

January 8, 2017 Vincent Simonelli of Dream Homes Ltd.Leave a comment

Dream Homes Ltd.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Blog –

1-8-17

Greetings and Happy New Year to all …it’s been too long since I’ve last written.

Today I am writing and looking at the snow…which I truly and completely dislike…if we were meant to live in weather like this, we should have been born with fur, methinks…

To start off, I hope everyone’s holiday season has been wonderful. I wish all of you a safe, healthy, prosperous New Year. 2017 is shaping up to be a much better year for many people and I hope you are one of them.

Today, we have a few items of note. As a repeat, I’ve been nominated a Home Town Hero in Brick Township for nice things our great team has done for an unfortunate Sandster, a good guy named Bob Steimle. The ceremony is January 20^th, and I even get a Golden Cape, which I will (modestly) wear 24 hours a day for the next 8 years or so. We mention our next Rebuilding Seminar, which is 10 days from now on Wednesday January 18^th. Finally I close today with, “Yeah we do that for you” which is definitely worth reading…

January (1/18/17) Dream Homes Seminar – Rain or Shine – Hot or Cold

Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar – Wednesday January 18^th, 2017 – 6 PM – Tuscan Bistro in Toms River. Provenance & History : We’ve been holding this seminar for 4 years and counting; we are the only company actually bothering to tell you how to intelligently complete an improvement or renovation.

Our next Nearly Famous Rebuilding Seminar will be held Wednesday January 18th, 2017 from 6 pm at the Tuscan Bar and Grill on Hooper Avenue in Toms River, across from the Ocean County Mall. We’ll focus on Sandsters that are early in the process, and have not completed design work, or chosen a builder or architect. We offer engineering & architectural design advice, RREM guidance at the initial stages, and help with choosing the right builder or contractor. Please call to reserve a space if you would like to attend since refreshments will be served and space is limited.

The seminar date happens to be only 2 days before the Hometown Hero event! That’s right – Dream Homes and Vince Simonelli have been nominated as one of the recipients of the Hometown Hero Award in Brick Township!

Not to repeat great news, but I’m quite proud of the nomination! This award is given in Bricktown to people and companies who do nice things to help people in need. Our great team has helped an unfortunate Sandster – a really good guy named Bob Steimle.

Here’s what happened. Last year we got a call from Hale Built House Raising asking us if we could help a person in need. They explained to us that Bob Steimle had been the victim of fraud – Bob’s contractor had moved his house from his foundation 50 feet into his back yard and disappeared to another state, leaving Bob stranded in a trailer for 14 months. Bob needed help and Hale and Acme Piling joined together to install pilings and move the house back to where it needed to be.

But Bob still needed a builder to complete the project, which is where we stepped in.

The builder who could undertake the project had to understand the construction and financial issues and be able to work within the RREM program’s constraints and Bob’s needs and complete the project. Dream Homes stepped up.

I called Bob, who gave me his information, and told him, “Bob, we’ll help you out.” We scheduled a time to talk further and for me to look at his house. The next day I met Bob and 2 days later I gave him an estimate (he got his estimate in 2 days instead of 2-3 weeks). We signed a contract on the 3^rd day, Bob gave us a $500 deposit and we started working.

A short time later, I’m happy to say the Dream Homes team is well on its way to finishing Bob’s house and getting him back home.

Thanks for the kind words and recommendation Bob! I’m happy we were able to help.

The Hometown Hero ceremony is January 20^th at 7 pm at Brick High School. I originally thought I would receive a Golden Cape (which I was planning to (modestly) wear 24 hours a day for the next 8 years, other than during times of disaster or civil emergency (or rather, definitely during those dark times) And yes, that is perfectly normal behavior.) but it turns out that it is an ordinary colored cape. That’s ok – I’ll probably still wear it 24/7 so – have no fear – you’ll be able to recognize me on the street since I’ll be the middle age guy with the cape and sandals.

I will also get to give a lengthy, in depth speech (of approximately 30 seconds), which I promise will enthrall the multitudes gathered that evening. Do not miss it!

So please join us on the 20^th of January at Brick High School. Go to the Brick web site and sign up for a ticket or just show up!!

All kidding aside, Dream Homes is honored to receive the Hometown Hero award. It represents the spirit of who we are and we hope to embody that every day going forward.

Yeah, We Do That For You… Ok, finally, I’m getting to this article. Believe me, Dream is much more diligent delivering projects in a timely manner than I am at blogging regularly. I’ve promised this article for the last 2 months and have not written it until now.

For the last few years, Sandsters have been asking “Why should we use Dream Homes for our project?”. I normally respond with some of my standard replies, but have been thinking about writing them down in a slightly more informal way.

I keep looking at those Geico ads, where Geico compares themselves to the competition and it’s absurd. Comparing us to 99% of every company in this business is like comparing a Yugo to a Mercedes or Joe’s General Contracting to Bechtel. Ridiculous. Dream Homes is so far superior in so many ways to our competition, that it amazes me that RREM doesn’t call us to finish the balance of the buildouts for the RREM grants. It would save a ton of time and aggravation for a lot of people.

Finally, we have parity and supply/demand balance in the market. The crooks are being run out of town on the proverbial rail, and the honest builders (who are actually more scarce than hen’s teeth) are still here, doing responsible business. Now we can choose to work with honest, civilized, pleasant clients and sub-contractors…and choose not to work with dishonest, uncivilized, negative, argumentative folks. Negative people should please go with God…elsewhere. Life’s too short.

Anyway, back at the ranch…here’s why people trust us with their projects.

”Yeah, we do that for you…..”

This is a list of what Sandsters ask us every day about new homes and renovation projects…and the answers we give them…

Q: Do you help us design our project right from the beginning?

A: Yes, we do that for you.

Q: Will you deal with the architect and engineer to create plans and foundation & piling designs?

A: Yup, we do that too.

Q: How about the surveyor? Survey, plot plan, foundation location, final flood elevation certs?

A..That’s a pain in the ass, but we absolutely do that for you. It makes your project move more quickly when we handle it – and it doesn’t cost you anything extra.

Q: What about soil boring? Geotechnical analysis? Foundation inspection and analysis?

A: We got that for you. Very few people know what those things are anyway, but you usually need to have them done so we can design a foundation for you. We take care of that when it’s needed.

Q: What do I do about utility disconnect and reconnect? I’ve heard that’s a complete nightmare. My Facebook group says it takes 5 months to get gas reconnected? Can you help me with that?

A: Yeah, we handle that for you. You make the calls for electric, gas and cable, and we handle water and sewer. And although it’s distasteful for us, we talk you through the Facebook Mass Hysteria, which is usually quite inaccurate. Usually anything anyone tells you on Facebook about construction science is false to some degree.

Q: How about the township and building department? Do I have to bring the plans in and meet with people?

A: Yup, we do it. We do all the submissions at the township level, including all building and zoning, from initial zoning application through to final Certificate of Occupancy. This is a lousy part of the deal…but we do it for you. Again, it doesn’t cost you anything – it’s another value added that we bring to the table.

Q: How about costs? Can you think of ways to save me money? Do you suggest alternatives?

A: As it turns out, we’re actually the only company that does that for you. We discuss alternate design ideas for foundation, wall & floor concepts, decks, stairs and entries, with the architect, engineer and other professionals assigned to your project.

We’ll usually save you $10,000 – $50,000 on your foundation design alone, by suggesting alternate means and methods. Yeah, we definitely do this for you.

Q: How about trying to figure out if an improvement I’m considering is worth the investment? Will I get my money back? Is it worth it?

A: Funny you should ask. Again, we’re the only company we know of that does a Cost/Benefit analysis for you for your project. We explain the financial implications of each portion of your project – is your idea a vanity project, a valuable capital improvement or (usually) something in between.

Q: Do you have a specific service or product that you try and sell me, or do you try and figure out the best solution for me and provide what I really need?

A: Again, an excellent question. We are one of the only construction companies that first discusses options and your situation to determine what you want, what you need and the most suitable solution for your situation. It is only at that point, that we will design and tailor a project scope of work that addresses all aspects of your needs – construction, design, cost, feasibility.

Q: I’m worried about signing a contract with a builder or contractor since I’ve heard so many stories about homeowners being ripped off. What do you have to say about that? Can you assure me I won’t lose my money?

A: Yes, as a matter of fact, we can assure you of that. As a matter of fact, we welcome inquiries into our financial strength since our financial condition demonstrates to you that we’re able to successfully complete your project. We’re the people that finish the abandoned projects other people start.

Please review our financials at www.sec.gov Our ticker symbol is VRTR.

Q: I’ve heard about people giving contractors large deposits and then never hearing from them again? What can you tell me about that?

A: We’ve been writing for years warning people about large initial deposits and advising as to how to avoid being victimized. We rarely accept more than a 5% deposit as an initial down payment. We responsibly make sure your funds are used for your project and not spent on anything else. We take care of that for you and keep your investment safe.

Q: Do you know what you’re doing? How many projects have you completed? More importantly, will you finish my project?

A: Yes, we’ll do that for you. We’ve developed and built over 1700 residential homes and 2,000,000 square feet of commercial space since 1993. Most importantly, we’ve never failed to complete a project for a client.

Q: How about dealing with RREM or my insurance company for payment requests and completing my ICC grant paperwork for my insurance company? Also, can you help me deal with my bank, which has an entire other set of requirements?

A: We prepare a special ICC estimate and scope of work for your insurance company to assist you in getting your $30,000 ICC funding. We also help you prepare and submit all RREM payment requests, and help you with final inspections and to close out your grant. We will address funding and draw request issues with you bank for you.

Q: I’m worried about unforeseen events? What if something happens while the project is under way?

A: We’ll handle whatever comes up on your project. Whether it’s a septic tank or well that no one knew about, or work that was done in your home without permits before you bought it, we’ll get you through any issues that arise.

Q: What about if I need work done after you’re finished with the initial project? And what if something goes wrong? Will you be there to fix it? Will you come back to add that room in the garage, that deck we talked about or that new kitchen?

A: We definitely do that for you. Once you’re a client, you can call us in 10 years to change a storm door and we’ll send someone over to your house the next day. At any time in the future, we will come back to your home and do work you may not have been able to do when we were initially there, regardless of the size of the project. We stand behind our work and consider the relationship to be the most important part of our agreement with you. We’ve been building and developing homes in NJ since 1993 and our client referrals and testimonials are the most important part of our legacy.

Q: Will you help me figure out which items I can afford to do now and which I can do later? I’m really confused because I feel like if I don’t do everything at once, I won’t be able to get a CO and move back in my house.

A: Again, we do this for you and very few other companies will evaluate your project like this. We’ll tell you the minimum scope of work that you need to finish your project on budget and move back in, and then we’ll help you choose items that you can afford to do now and those that can be done in the future.

Q: I’m worried about cost overruns and upcharges. I have a tight budget and can’t go over it.

A: We take care of that for you. Unless you change the scope of work by adding items in the middle, we pride ourselves on preparing accurate estimates in the beginning, so you know what to expect and aren’t dealing with any surprises. We never deliberately omit items we know you will need to finish you project, so they can be added later. Many, many builders use this technique to have you sign a contract only to add significant charges once you are stuck in the middle of it and have no choice if you want to finish. We never do this.

Q: I’m worried about communication and being able to reach my builder during the project. I’ve heard about people who couldn’t contact anyone once their project started and had their contractor close his retail storefront and leave town. Do you provide the ability to contact you and will you respond in a timely manner?

A: We do that for you. We’ve owned a building in Forked River for 14 years and we have an outstanding team in the office to respond to your needs. In addition, we’ll communicate with you in the way that suits you, whether it be via phone, text, email or personal visit.

Reminder: If you’ve been ripped off by any dishonest contractor and are stuck, call us and we’ll help you. You may qualify for a $2000 credit towards your project.

That’s all for today Sandsters. I hope my words helps you move forward and I hope to see you at the seminar on the 18^th. As always, call or write with any questions.

Regards,

Vince

Dream Homes Ltd.

Virtual Learning Company Inc.

Atlantic Northeast Construction LLC

New Home Builder #045894

Home Improvement Contractor #13VH07489000

PO Box 627

Forked River, NJ 08731

Office: 609 693 8881 F: 609 693 3802

Cell: 732 300 5619

Email: vince@dreamhomesltd.com