Hello, My family will move to the States (Maryland)in the end of the year. So we're thinking of building our first house. I'm german and used to live in classic stone-on-stone buildings who last for centuries. Plus green building is a big thing over here and you see solar panels on every other house. My husband (American) is also interested in saving energy, solar technique, geothermal energy, etc. But...he likes the comfort, space, luxury and looks of big Toll Brother Mansions. ;-) To be honest, I don't trust these builders. I've read so many horror stories about cheap quality, paper mache walls with faux stucco and cr***py installations. So, can anybody suggest a Builder in Maryland who builds really green, offers different options of alternative energy and energy saving, has a good reputation and still knows what craftsmanship means? :-) Thanks a lot!

try this link
http://www.passivehouse.us/passiveHouse/PHIUS_Certified_Builders.html
also look on the passive house site for consultants or designers in your area who will know qualified bulders.

Talk to local architects and building suppliers. The mechanicals should be contracted directly and be design/build. Careful of the gimmicks, which include much of the "Alternative" or "Green" technologies. There are many proven technologies that actually save energy and the environment and many more that cost without saving.

The best house is usually a mix of old and new technologies in a balanced mix.

why dont you try online or you can even ask for reference form your friends and family. always give preference to references for your known circle because they already might have some firsthand experience with them.

I wouldn't automatically write off major builders like Toll Bros. First, separate the complaints you are reading into boom and bust (after 2008.) Quality control is tougher in boom times. In most states, if you have pickup truck, you can call yourself a carpenter. Back in the boom, tens of thousands did. Speed is the construction goal here. Banks and builders want the home done in four months no matter what, and there were some truly ugly whats back in the boom. Toll bros at least has a system, a reputation to protect and the resources to buy back lemon homes.

That said, you will have fewer choices of location and green features. And the result will seem shoddy compared to German craftsmanship because almost all American homes are shoddy by comparison. Americans don't stay put. And neighborhoods can change drastically in 40 years.

You don't say where in Md, and it matters a great deal. The DC market is as strong as ever. Attractive existing homes usually end up in a bidding contest in the first weekend after listing. Back in the boom, the DC suburbs tried to slow development by charging impact fees and adopting tougher building regulations (storm water management, fire suppressing sprinkler systems) to slow down development. Those measures remain, as do high construction costs, even in counties with weak real estate markets.

You need local help in other words. Or, if you aren't sure where in Md., you need to make that decision first. Good luck. I hope you have a sense of humor.

Hi Lynnio, We are not located in Maryland but we do supply in that area. If you are looking for quality in materials that are long lasting and green. Take a moment to look at our panel system 'Kwik-Build Panels. After reviewing please let us know if you have any questions. Best, David