Episode 32: Mechanical Rough-Ins – Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical in Custom Home Building In this episode of Building With Breven , we continue our 7-part mini series breaking down the full process to build a home , step-by-step. Inspired by our most popular episode (Ep. 22), we’re diving deep into Step 4: Mechanical Rough-Ins —a critical stage in home building that happens right after framing and before insulation or drywall. If you want to understand how to build a home the right way, this is...
Jun 19, 2025•35 min•Ep. 32
Episode 31: Framing, Cornice & Roof Decking – How to Build the Structure of a Custom Home If you're planning to build a home , understanding the structural phase is essential to successful home building . In this episode of Building With Breven , we continue our 7-part mini series inspired by our most downloaded episode, Ep. 22, diving deeper into Step 3: Framing, Cornice, and Roof Decking . Knowing how to build a home from the ground up starts with getting the frame right—and this is especi...
Jun 06, 2025•37 min•Ep. 31
Episode 30: How to Build a Strong Foundation for Your Custom Home | Step 2 of the Home Building Process In this episode of Building With Breven , we continue our 7-part mini series breaking down each step of the custom home building process. This week, we take a deep dive into Step 2: Foundation —a critical phase that can make or break your entire home construction project. If you’re planning to build a home , understanding the foundation phase is essential to avoid costly mistakes and structura...
May 30, 2025•36 min•Ep. 30
Lot Prep Masterclass: Essential Steps to Prepare Your Land for a Custom Home | Episode 29 In this first episode of our special 7-part series expanding on our most popular episode (Ep. 22), hosts Steven Byrnes & Mike Byrnes take an in-depth look at Lot Preparation , the critical first step in the custom home building process. You'll learn about: Land Surveying & Boundary Identification: Why surveying your lot is crucial. Tree Clearing & Site Preparation: Key considerations for effecti...
May 23, 2025•31 min•Ep. 29
🏡 How Will Tariffs & a Recession Affect Custom Home Building? In this episode of Building With Breven , we dive into two major economic factors that could shape the custom home-building industry: tariffs and a possible recession . If you're planning to build a home in 2025 or beyond, understanding these trends is critical for budgeting, material costs, and project timelines. 🔍 Key topics we cover: ✅ How rising tariffs could impact the cost of materials like lumber, steel, and imported fini...
Mar 17, 2025•26 min•Ep. 28
Hidden costs in custom home building can surprise homeowners! Don't start construction until you hear this! In this eye-opening episode of "Building With Breven," we reveal the top 4 hidden costs that can blow your custom home budget. From unexpected site work to surprising permit fees, we're uncovering the financial pitfalls that catch many homeowners off guard. What You'll Learn: Why land preparation could cost you up to $50,000 more than you planned The truth about permit and impact fees in C...
Nov 03, 2024•23 min•Ep. 27
Thinking about building your own custom home? In this episode, we explore whether a DIY custom home build is truly possible and what it takes to succeed. We break down the pros and cons, key skills needed, and potential challenges faced when taking on a project of this scale. From managing permits and contractors to budgeting and design, find out if going the DIY route is right for you—or if hiring professionals is the smarter choice. Keywords: DIY custom home build, build your own home, custom ...
Sep 20, 2024•26 min•Ep. 26
Ready to move into your dream home sooner? In this episode, we reveal expert tips and insider strategies to help you fast-track your custom home build without sacrificing quality. Discover how to streamline the pre-construction and construction processes, avoid common delays, and make smart decisions that can cut your build time by up to 40%. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, these actionable insights will help you bring your vision to life faster and more efficiently. Tun...
Aug 19, 2024•30 min•Ep. 25
Learn from the mistakes of others! In this episode, we delve into the story of a failed custom home build, highlighting the common pitfalls and challenges that led to its downfall. Hear firsthand accounts of budget overruns, contractor issues, design flaws, and more. Discover the crucial takeaways and practical advice to help you avoid these mistakes in your own custom home project. Tune in to ensure your dream home becomes a reality, not a nightmare. Keywords: failed custom home build, custom h...
Jul 27, 2024•26 min•Ep. 24
Are you planning a new custom home build? Discover the must-have smart home features that will transform your living experience! In this episode, we explore the top 10 smart home technologies to integrate into your new home design. From automated lighting and security systems to energy-efficient solutions and smart kitchens, we cover the latest innovations that bring convenience, safety, and efficiency to your everyday life. Tune in for expert insights, practical tips, and a vision of the ultima...
Jun 11, 2024•31 min•Ep. 23
7 Essential Steps to Building Your Custom Home | Expert Guide (Ep. 22) In Episode 22 of Building with Breven , host Steven Byrnes is joined by special guest Mike to detail the 7 Essential Steps of Building a Custom Home . Discover expert insights on: Phase 1: Lot Preparation Foundation Construction Framing, Cornice & Decking Mechanical Systems Installation Phase 2: Drywall Installation Interior Trim Work Final Punch-Out & Closing (Key Handover) Avoid costly pitfalls and confidently navig...
Mar 29, 2024•36 min•Ep. 22
Welcome to episode 21 of the Building With Breven podcast, where Steven & Bryan dive into the realm of healthy homes. In this episode, we unveil seven crucial topics every homeowner should consider for a healthier custom home build. Air Quality Optimization: Learn about cutting-edge technologies and strategies to ensure your indoor air quality is pristine, promoting respiratory health and overall well-being for you and your family. Natural Lighting Solutions: Discover how strategic design ch...
Mar 22, 2024•31 min•Ep. 21
In episode 20 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Steven dig into the topic of builder pricing. Have you ever wondered how builders price such complex custom homes? With so many variables and moving parts it's no surprise that 3 different builders could all have drastically different prices for the same custom home. Tune in to this episode to learn what to look for and what questions to ask, in regards to pricing, as you narrow down builders for your custom home build.
Feb 14, 2024•33 min•Ep. 20
Welcome to Building With Breven, where we embark on an exciting exploration of the intricate and thrilling journey from envisioning your dream home to the exhilarating moment you finally step through the front door. In this episode, we're delving deep into the nuances of the path from custom home conception to move-in day, unraveling the secrets and insights that can transform your vision into reality. Join our hosts Steven and Bryan, seasoned experts in the realm of custom home construction, as...
Jan 10, 2024•30 min•Ep. 19
In episode 18 of the Building With Breven podcast we are joined by Addison Oaks, owner of Addison Social Co. Addison and Steven answer the most frequently asked questions that we receive from our social media accounts. These questions address the following: Do custom home builders build on my lot or theirs? Difference between a custom home builder and a volume/production home builder? How to choose a custom home builder? How to set client's expectations properly every step of the way? How does c...
Dec 23, 2023•28 min•Ep. 18
Welcome to Building With Breven! In this episode 17, we're delving into the key strategies for financing your custom home build. Our experts, Steven and Bryan, share invaluable insights to guide you through the financial aspects of turning your dream home into a reality. Discover proven tactics to evaluate + select the right financing options, and navigate the loan application process seamlessly. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or an experienced homeowner, this episode equips you with the ...
Dec 07, 2023•27 min•Ep. 17
Listen along to episode 16 of the Building With Breven podcast, where we discuss all things in the process of custom home building. We take a builder's approach to educate our listeners so they're well informed when making decisions regarding their own custom home build. In episode 16 we dive into the topic of builder value and how to compare one builder's value to another. With the help of Alex Hormozi's value equation we're able to make this a tangible comparison between builders. Although it'...
Nov 21, 2023•30 min•Ep. 16
Welcome to Building With Breven, where we navigate the intricate world of custom home building to empower you with the knowledge you need! 🏡💡 In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the often mystifying realm of pricing in the custom home building process. Join us as we unravel the secrets and unveil the price tricks employed in the industry. From hidden fees to under bids, we've got you covered. Discover how to navigate the complexities of custom home building costs and gain insigh...
Nov 13, 2023•31 min•Ep. 15
In episode 14 of the Building With Breven podcast, we break down the pressing question "Is now a good or bad time to build a custom home?". We use graphs and tables to present factual data and ultimately answer this question from an unbiased perspective. Listen to this episode if you are hesitant on starting the custom home building process due to external fears. Supporting data for this episode: https://themortgagereports.com/61853/30-year-mortgage-rates-chart#loan-purpose https://fred.stlouisf...
Oct 27, 2023•32 min•Ep. 14
In episode 13 of the Building With Breven podcast, we welcome special guest Steve Iltis. Steve is a residential home designer/architect. Tune in to this episode if you're stuck at the floor plan stage and need some guidance for your new custom home. Steve is a master at transforming future homeowner's thoughts and dreams into 2D buildable plans. Check out Steve's content and information here: Steve Iltis www.steveshannondesign.com www.txhouseplans.com Phone: 713.598.1150 Email: steve@steveshanno...
Oct 18, 2023•51 min•Ep. 13
In episode 12 of the Building With Breven podcast, we cover the highs and lows of change orders. Don't miss these tips before discussing change orders with your custom home builder.
Sep 28, 2023•39 min•Ep. 12
In episode 11 of the Building With Breven podcast, the Breven Homes duo are back and discussing construction management software. In particular, they discuss the benefits of a professional builder that utilizes a construction management software and how these benefits help YOU the client/homeowner.
Sep 12, 2023•18 min•Ep. 11
In episode 10 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Mike dive into weatherization and energy efficiency. While this episode covers a little bit of building science, it's essential knowledge to ensure you build the most weather and energy efficient custom home.
Sep 07, 2023•23 min•Ep. 10
In episode 9 of the Build With Breven podcast we take a deep dive into Preliminary Building Agreements. Be sure to listen to this episode as you're selecting a builder.
Aug 20, 2023•32 min•Ep. 9
Are you looking for ways to reduce your custom home budget? Want a more efficient home? Don't miss this episode where we break down "Value Engineering" topics and really dig into this industry buzz word.
Aug 11, 2023•29 min•Ep. 8
In episode 7 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Steven dive into custom home building contracts. Listen along as they cover the 2 main types of builder contracts, as well as the pros and cons of each. This episode is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult with a qualified legal professional before signing any contracts.
Jul 31, 2023•40 min•Ep. 7
On week 6 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Steven present 10 thought provoking questions you don't want to miss. Be sure to listen to this podcast before you finalize a builder and sign a building contract.
Jul 24, 2023•32 min•Ep. 6
Enjoy this week's episode as we address how to select a custom home builder. We start from the beginning and cover where to find custom home builders, best ways to vet each company, first impressions, understanding preliminary pricing, and ultimately how to trust your instincts when making this massive and crucial decision.
Jul 14, 2023•28 min•Ep. 5
In Episode 4 we welcome special guest, expert builder, and our father (Mike). If you're searching for a lot/land for your custom home build this is the episode for you! We break down what to look for as you hone in on a location and specific lots. Be sure to listen for the acronym T-U-T-S as a helpful reminder in your land search.
Jul 07, 2023•24 min•Ep. 4
In Episode 3 we take the daunting process of building a custom home and break it down into 10 steps. From the initial idea of building custom to the closing day, we talk through each step so you're aware of what to expect. Listen until the end for a rough timeline of each step and the entire process. Decide a custom home is right for you Select a builder Purchase a lot Design with an architect + builder + designer Preliminary Building Agreement (PBA) Building Agreement/Contract Obtain financing ...
Jul 06, 2023•40 min•Ep. 3
