Not only do custom builders include the most-wanted features in their homes, but they also focus on the quality of the construction when it comes to the most discriminating clients -- their own family. Some custom builders opt to build their own homes with innovative materials and techniques that can serve as models for future developments.
 
Photo courtesy of Realtor.com
October 30, 2009, by Michele Lerner
Published by The Washington Times

In Howard County, a custom homebuilder started building a luxury, energy-efficient home at 14265 Triadelphia Mill Road in Dayton for his family but later decided to move out of the area.

Now on the market for $1,049,000, the brand new 10,500-square-foot custom home rests on a 1.38-acre site. The quality-built home features seven bedrooms, 7 1/2 baths and five fireplaces. This home is not yet complete so buyers may customize some of the finishes such as flooring, cabinets, appliances and paint colors.

This environmentally-friendly home is constructed with Quad-Lock insulated concrete forms that extend from the foundation to the roof to make the home more energy-efficient, able to withstand hurricane-force winds, reduce outside noise, inhibit drafts and restrict insect invasions.

Energy-efficient windows, three water heaters, triple-zone heating and a passive radon detection system add to the home's efficiency and comfort, along with multiple zones of heating and air conditioning. The home includes a concrete-enclosed "safe room" on the lower level. It also includes an elevator shaft (for the future installation of an elevator).

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