When the homeowners of this beautiful residence decided to build a new home in an area closer to their community of friends, their goal was to create a warm and inviting home that was perfect for entertaining guests. Caitlyn Noble sits down with the couple to learn more about the building process from their perspective.
The homeowners explain, “The most important thing to us was to have an open layout with plenty of natural light streaming in throughout the day.” A painter in his free time, the husband also wanted to incorporate warm color tones inspired by the couple’s travels over the years.
They knew that bringing their ideas to life would require putting together a talented team that could help realize their vision.
The couple had recently purchased a lot and proudly selected Rufty Homes to build their new home. It was Rufty Homes “who had built several of our friends’ homes and came highly recommended to us. Jon Rufty recommended that we work with Frazier Home Design and we chose Heather Holcombe Designs to help us achieve a cohesive look that matched our style,” says the couple. “And then we worked closely with our Rufty Project Manager, Allen Moore, who helped figure out creative solutions in almost every area of the home.”
When it came to incorporating color in the design, it all came down to balance. Heather explains, “Our goal was to find ways to use distinct colors throughout the home but in a cohesive way. To do this, we used similar palettes in different areas of the house. For example, there is a rust-colored stone in the foyer that is mirrored with the paint we chose for the back of the bookshelves in the family room. We also carried the granite countertops from the kitchen into the master closet and used the same shade of blue featured in the kitchen in the master bathroom tile.”
One of the home's most prominent features is the smoky blue kitchen cabinets, which are perfectly complemented by the custom-designed textured blue tile backsplash, which features a fig tree. “It took several iterations to get the design of that tile exactly right, but it was more than worth it to get the end result,” says Heather.
It was that attention to detail from every member of the team that made the building process a smooth one for the couple. The wife goes on to say, “Allen and Heather were extraordinarily helpful and awesome to work with. They both helped guide us to make the right decisions and we felt we could rely on them completely. A project of this size, with so much complexity and customization, comes with challenges, especially since we were specific about what we wanted. But, we all worked together to get everything right down to the last detail. ”
For Allen Moore, the challenges are part of what he loves about his work. “I enjoyed the process of helping the couple figure out exactly what they wanted, even if that meant making changes on the fly. The staircase, for example, started on paper as a completely different design, but it was very satisfying to listen to the homeowners and figure out a solution that better fit their needs and wants. The finished staircase couldn’t be more perfect for the space.”
This idea of helping homeowners find creative solutions during the build process is set from the top down, starting with Jon Rufty, which was immediately apparent to our client. He explains, “Jon was always solution-focused any time we had questions or concerns. It was obvious that he has a passion for what he does and his top priority is making sure his customers are happy.”
Now, as they prepare to move into their new home, the homeowners most look forward to the time they’ll spend together with their friends and loved ones. Whether it’s hanging out on their screened porch, surrounded by nature, or having a drink in their downstairs bar that was inspired by a trip to Dubai, their place will feel like home to all who visit.
For more photos of this beautiful new home, click here.
Building a custom home is one of the most exciting projects you can do in your lifetime. Before getting started, however, there are several important decisions you’ll need to make. If you find yourself wondering if you should choose an architect or custom home builder for your project, you’ve come to the right place for guidance.
We hope that reading this guide will help you start planning for your project so you’re one step closer to building the home of your dreams. If you’re interested in learning more about the luxury home-building process, we’d be happy to talk with you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling 919-460-8550 or contacting us online.
Architects play an important role in the home-building process, as they understand the mechanics behind how to design a structurally sound home. When you hire an architect for your luxury build, there are several important things they’ll do for you.
For starters, an architect will sit down with you to listen to your wants and needs. From there, they’ll create a complete design concept that not only fits your ideas but also complies with local building regulations.
If you already have a lot for your future home, they might also visit the building site to consider the landscape in their design plans.
After they complete the design sketches, they’ll prepare official construction documents and plans. This includes the specifications for the following:
Architects will not only make sure that any design plans comply with local building codes, but they will also give you guidance about how to move forward with your design without running into violations.
There are a few aspects of your home design that are non-negotiable, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, how many stories you need it to be, etc. An architect will ensure that all of your requirements are accommodated in the design.
Finally, an architect can give you insight into whether the land you’re looking at is appropriate for your design needs. If they notice any concerns that could lead to issues down the line, they’ll raise them now so you can re-evaluate.
If you’re not sure whether you need to hire an architect for your luxury build, consider the following benefits of doing so.
The reality is that not every architect will be the right fit for your needs. In order to find the right architect, we recommend following these tips:
Start with location: Designing a custom home is a personal experience. You should expect to meet with your architect multiple times throughout the design process, and it might be easier to meet in person. Even if you’re fine doing virtual design meetings, it can help to hire a local architect so they can visit your land in person as they plan your home design.
Find a style that matches yours: Next, search for an architect that has a portfolio of designs that are similar to what you want in your own home design. If you love the outcome of their previous work, there’s a better chance that you’ll be happy with your own design plans as well.
Make sure they have plenty of experience: Everyone has to start somewhere, but working with an experienced architect can help you have a better overall design process. In terms of experience, look for an architect who has designed homes that are similar in style, size, and budget to what you need.
Here at Rufty Homes, we’d be happy to give you recommendations for architects, interior designers, etc. We’ve worked with many local professionals over the years and are here to give you our vetted recommendations as needed.
Now that you know more about what architects do, let’s take a closer look at the role custom home builders play in your project.
That’s right! Your luxury custom home builder will work closely with your architect during the design phase to ensure that it’s possible to bring the design to life on the lot you’ve chosen. In doing so, they’ll coordinate with your architect on how to build the design in the most cost-effective and efficient way possible.
Once your design plans are finalized, your custom home builder will work to make sure that your build stays on schedule by coordinating workers and materials to make sure they arrive on time. If a delay does come up, they’ll work to get the project back on track and communicate with you so you never feel out of the loop.
Your custom home builder is also responsible for bringing in the right subcontractors for the job and overseeing the work that’s done to ensure it meets your standards. The right custom home builder will also have the necessary knowledge to make sure that there aren’t any corners cut during your luxury build.
When you hire an experienced custom home builder, you can have peace of mind that they know about the most common problems that come up during a build. But, more importantly than that, they know how to prevent some of these issues from ever happening. When a problem does arrive, they’ll also know how to solve it in the most efficient way possible.
Finally, your custom home builder will evaluate your home at the end of the project, making a punch list of the finishing touches that need to happen before you move in. This helps to take the stress off your shoulders knowing that every little detail will be attended to.
When you want to truly build the home of your dreams, there’s no better choice than hiring a custom home builder like Rufty Homes. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of doing so.
Choosing the right custom home builder is just as, if not more important, than choosing the right architect for your home. Here are some tips to help you feel confident in your decision:
Look at their portfolio of work: If you don’t like the completed work of a custom home builder, you probably won’t be happy with the final outcome of your home either. We recommend looking through a builder’s portfolio so you can find a good fit.
Ask questions: Building a custom home is a big decision. Before committing to a builder, take the time to ask any questions you have. The right builder will be happy to sit down with you and answer them before starting on your project.
Read reviews and ask for referrals: Finally, we recommend reading through testimonials from past customers or asking a builder for referrals to get a better idea of what it’s like to work with them from the people who know best.
If you’re wondering, “Should you choose an architect or a custom home builder for your project?” we recommend hiring both. An architect and custom home builder can work together to ensure you get the home you’ve always wanted. If you’d like to learn more, please call 919-460-8550 or contact us online.
When you build a custom home in Wake County, NC, you have the opportunity to create a luxurious space of your own that perfectly suits your needs. If you’re wondering how to truly experience luxury living with your new house, you’ve come to the right place for guidance.
Continue reading to learn tips on creating a luxurious space that will always make you feel at home.
One of the many reasons that people are flocking to the Triangle is because it’s beautiful. When you’re deciding where to build your custom home, mindfully picking the right location can go a long way in helping you experience luxury living.
When you’re considering where to build, think about which amenities are most important to your family. Would you like to live on a beautiful golf course? Or maybe a secure gated community is most important to you? Whatever the answer, prioritize finding a great location before you start building.
After you have your location picked out, you can start to think about the specifics of the home you’re going to build. What kind of interior design appeals most to you? Many of us know what we do and don’t like, but we can’t always translate those opinions into a cohesive design.
We recommend that our clients work with an experienced interior designer to help them create a luxurious space that they’ll truly enjoy. Our team can offer you a list of vetted designers that we know and love, or you can hire someone of your choosing. Either way, make sure you choose a designer who has a portfolio that reflects your personal sense of style.
When you want to experience luxury living, you should be thoughtful about every aspect of your home. This starts by creating an amazing entrance. Instead of overlooking your foyer, use the space to create a “wow” moment that you and your guests will enjoy every time you enter the home.
We love this example, which features a striking staircase, a statement-making chandelier, and a bold piece of artwork that looks nothing short of luxurious.
Speaking of artwork, when you’re designing your home, incorporate some of your favorite pieces throughout the space. Art is uniquely personal, so take time to be thoughtful about the pieces you buy, opting for the ones that really speak to you.
Seeing some of your favorite pieces of art every day is a little luxury and will make for great conversation starters when you’re entertaining.
When you want to experience luxury living in Wake County, NC, the Rufty Homes team is here to make it possible. When you’re ready to build a custom home, we can help you find the right location and build a space that you’ll truly love for years to come.
To take the next step towards creating a life of luxury, reach out to us with your project ideas for yourself or custom home ideas for kids. We’ll be here to listen and guide you through the next steps of the custom home-building process.
We’d like to offer our sincerest thanks to everyone who voted for us in the Midtown Magazine’s BEST OF RALEIGH! 2023 Diamond Awards and Cary Living Magazine’s BEST OF WESTERN WAKE! 2023 Diamond Awards for Best Builder.
We’re thrilled to announce that we were named the Gold Winner in Cary Living Magazine and the Silver Winner in Midtown Magazine.
You can see the announcements in Cary Living Magazine and Midtown Magazine, either in a physical copy of the magazines or by reading the digital versions at the links below.
Cary Living Magazine January/February 2023
Midtown Magazine January/February 2023
We couldn’t have done this without you! We can’t thank you enough for your support over the years. It truly means the world to us.
The kitchen is truly the heart of the home and it’s where we spend an average of 400 hours every single year. Why not spend all of that time in a kitchen you truly love? The popularity of custom-built kitchens is on the rise, as homeowners take the time to create a space that’s as beautiful as it is functional.
Need some inspiration for your Wake County custom-built home design? We think you’ll love these 10 kitchen designs we’ve done for clients over the years as much as we do!
We love the natural light flooding into this kitchen thanks to the windows throughout it. Not only do they fill the space with a light and airy feel, but they also give you a great view while cooking your favorite meal.
We truly enjoy creating spaces that encourage connections for our clients. This large island has plenty of space for the whole family to gather at the end of the day, sharing stories and making memories with each other.
Available in thousands of different styles and designs, tile is a great way to make a statement in your kitchen design. We love the subtle use of the patterned tile here, combined with the plain black tile behind the oven for a bold, yet classic design.
Dreaming of a rustic kitchen? Try incorporating a touch of nature into your design, like these wood beams and natural wood cabinets. They especially pop against the stark contrast of the light countertop and appliances.
The kitchen isn’t just for making delicious food. It’s often the place where the whole family gathers before heading out the door to start the day. We love this organizational hub complete with storage and a built-in whiteboard that the entire family can use.
A range hood plays an important role in improving the air quality in your home, but that doesn’t mean it can’t also be a beautiful design feature. We love the striking color of this one and how it’s an eye-catching feature of the overall kitchen design.
We always love a good contrast of color, but this design is particularly unique. The kitchen island’s light cabinets and dark countertops are the perfect complement to the dark cabinets and light countertops throughout the rest of the kitchen.
A prep kitchen is often thought of as “out of sight, out of mind,” but we believe it’s still worthy of a thoughtful design. From the convenient chalkboard to the wire storage baskets and plentiful shelving, this is truly the prep kitchen of our dreams.
While your family will surely get plenty of use out of your formal dining room, sometimes it’s nice to have a more casual spot to eat a quick bite together. This built-in, booth-seating breakfast nook is the perfect cozy spot. If you need a luxury home design in the Raleigh-Durham area, we can help you get the best use of space for your kitchen.
Light and bright designs will always be in style, but you can get creative by incorporating smaller pops of color in your kitchen design. We love the contrast of this dark kitchen island (and barstools!) with the white cabinetry and backsplash.
We hope you feel inspired by these custom-built kitchens! Which design would you most like to see in your own home? We love helping our neighbors and community in the Wake County area. We are happy to help anyone in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Cary, Wake Forest, and nearby areas. Whether you want to build a new custom home or begin a luxury renovation, our team is here to bring your ideas to life. Contact us today to get started.
As we near the end of the year, I always like to take some time to sit back and reflect on the last twelve months and look ahead at what’s to come in the new year. I find that by doing so, I’m reminded to count my blessings both professionally and personally.
Here at Rufty Homes, 2022 was a great one for our team. Working together, we completed the following:
I recognize that each and every one of our team members played a role in the success of these projects and I’m so thankful for their commitment to serving our customers. To help us celebrate our hard work this year and enjoy some well-deserved time off, our office will be closed the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
As proud as I am of our team's work this year, this time of year is also a reminder that work will never be the most important thing to any of us. Spending time with our friends and family is truly what it’s all about.
I look forward to spending these last few days of the year slowing down, living intentionally, and savoring every moment spent with my loved ones. Regardless of what or how you celebrate, I hope you get to spend plenty of time with those you love as well.
Finally, as we look ahead to 2023, I want to thank you for being here and taking an interest in the work that we do. We have big things on the horizon for the new year and we look forward to sharing them with you.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year,
Jon Rufty
Now that autumn is starting to end, it's time to change out those fall home decor pieces. Whether we’re building a new custom house or renovating a space for our clients, our goal is to create a home that our clients can enjoy all year long. That means incorporating home design trends that are perfect for use regardless of the weather.
If you’re looking for more ways to get more use out of your home in the winter, you’re in the right place. Below are some of our favorite home design trends that are perfect for these chilly months.
Get all the joy of spending time outdoors without the discomfort by adding a screened-in porch to your backyard. By including a fireplace, you’ll have a cozy spot ideal for late night social events or watching a beautiful winter sunrise with a warm cup of coffee in your hand.
You can make it even more functional by including wiring for a TV in the space. Then, you can use the space to host guests for football games or watch your favorite holiday movies with the kids.
If you want to actually get out in nature without being too cold, another option is to build an outdoor fireplace in your backyard. To really make it feel luxe, opt for a built-in seating area around the fireplace as well so there’s room for the whole family to enjoy it.
Looking for a simpler design upgrade? Consider adding outdoor heaters to your space that you can move around as needed. These are ideal for use during an outdoor dinner party or gathering to keep everyone comfortable.
When it’s cold outside, it can be hard to motivate ourselves to leave the house. By incorporating a rec room in your house, you won’t have to! Create a home gym that has all of your favorite equipment to make it easier than ever to stay on track with your exercise goals.
You might also build a game room complete with a pool table, televisions, and even arcade games that the whole family will enjoy escaping to when it’s cold outside.
What sounds better than lighting a fire and enjoying a nice glass of wine with loved ones on a chilly night? Not much, if you ask us! With some thoughtful design, you can create a wine area that not only stores your favorite bottles but also serves as a beautiful space in your home.
In addition to a wine fridge and shelving, don’t forget to add some nice lighting to further elevate the space. Looking for some inspiration? The wine area in this home features a unique window looking into the dining room, where the homeowners can store corks from their favorite pours. It’s a functional, yet high-end design that’s nothing short of eye-catching.
During the winter months, a warm, home-cooked meal always hits the spot. Why not give yourself more space to prepare your favorite dishes? A scullery is a smaller, second kitchen, ideal for prepping food and keeping the mess of cooking out of your main kitchen.
When designing one for your home, we recommend including plenty of storage space, an additional sink, and a smaller refrigerator for extra ingredients.
After reading through this article, we hope you have plenty of winter inspiration for your own home. If you’re planning a luxury renovation and you want to incorporate these home design trends in the process, the Rufty team would be more than happy to talk through your ideas. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you create a space you’ll love.
Do you remember the days of using a paper map to get around instead of a built-in GPS on your phone? What about getting a phone call on a landline with no way of knowing who it might be because caller ID wasn’t around? Just like technology has transformed our everyday life, it’s also made the home-building process much easier.
Let’s travel back in time to the “olden days” and take a look at how we used to build homes compared to what we do today. No DeLorean required!
Creating a beautiful backyard pool is one of the most fun aspects of building a custom home. Back in the days before technology, Jon Rufty and his team used to lay out the shape of a future pool using a garden hose! While it obviously got the job done, it certainly wasn’t the easiest method.
These days, we use computer-aided design (CAD), software to design pools digitally, down to the very last detail. This makes for a much easier and more precise process on our end and gives our customers a more accurate idea of what they can expect in their backyard design.
One of the most important parts of our job is finding suitable lots for the homes we build. We used to have to send multiple members of the team out to potential sites to evaluate land, which took a lot of time.
Now, we can use technology like 3D scanners and drone footage to get a good overview of the land and take measurements to help us determine where to build.
Before technology was an everyday part of life, all of our home plans and designs started on paper. Architects, designers, and our construction team relied on paper drawings and sketches as the building plans, and it was hard to share them with multiple people quickly.
We now rely on 3D designing tools to create elaborate plans for the homes we’re building. Not only is this a greener solution, but it allows for more dynamic changes and it’s easier to share the documents with anyone who needs to review them.
These days, it’s hard to remember the days before we always had a smartphone by our side. Of course, in those “before times,” it was much harder to communicate with clients. To do so, we would use fax machines, pagers, and paper documents for our communications.
Today, our clients love that we can easily communicate with them via email, calls to their cell phones, and even text messages. This quick communication makes for a smoother building process and helps our clients feel in the loop about every detail of their build.
Part of our success over the decades is due to our ability to adapt how we work. That includes embracing new technology that can improve the home-building process for our team and our customers.
However, one thing that will never change is that we always put our customers first, listening to your every need to design a home you’ll truly love. Explore more about the Rufty Difference to get a better feel about what you can expect when you work with our team.
Imagine, for a moment, the home of your dreams. What does it look like? What features does it have? Now think of your current home. Could your existing house transform into your dream home with a little work? One of the most important decisions we help our clients make is the choice between a custom home vs a luxury remodel.
Which option is right for you? In this article, we’ll cover the most important things to consider when making your decision.
The most important thing to keep in mind is the location of your current house since it’s not something that you can change. If you love your current location, but your home’s interior or exterior feels dated, it might be worth planning a luxury remodel instead of trying to find a new location you love just as much.
On the other hand, if you no longer love your neighborhood or you’re ambivalent about your location, you might be able to find a better lot on which to build your new custom home.
Next, consider how quickly you need or want the project to be completed. Building a custom home from scratch takes much longer than a luxury remodeling project. If the timeline is a concern, it might be better to find ways to renovate your current house to better fit your needs.
Keep in mind that ongoing supply chain issues are impacting both new builds and remodeling projects, which could further delay your project.
Before deciding whether to build a custom home or start a luxury remodel, take some time to think about how much you’re comfortable spending. Not surprisingly, remodeling your home, even with luxury features, will cost less than designing a brand new custom build.
However, when building a new home, you can roll the costs into the overall mortgage amount. This might make it easier to fit into your budget vs paying out of pocket for remodeling costs in addition to your existing mortgage.
Another important thing to consider is the luxury features you want from your new space. We recommend making a list of your desired features, ranked by order of importance. From there, think about how realistically you can incorporate these features into your existing home.
For example, if you dream of a resort-style pool, but have a small backyard, you’ll have to weigh how important it is to get the pool. If it’s the top feature on your list, then that can help you decide that a custom build makes more sense for you.
Finally, consider the convenience factor of doing a custom build vs a luxury remodel. If you opt for renovations, will you continue living in your home during the process? If so, think about the logistics of that and how the experience will be for your family.
If you decide on a custom build, you’ll need to deal with selling your current home and potentially finding a temporary place to stay if you sell your home before your new one is finished. Carefully weigh the convenience factors of both options to help you make your decision.
We hope that reading this article helps to give you a better idea of what to consider when deciding between a custom build vs a luxury remodel. Of course, we realize that each situation is unique and we’d be happy to talk you through the options and help you make the right decision for your family. Contact us today to start talking with our team.
As a luxury home builder, we try to make the home-building process as enjoyable as possible for our customers. One of the ways that we do this is by helping our clients feel prepared before we ever break ground on a project.
The best way to do this is by encouraging our clients to ask questions. But, how do you know what exactly to ask? We’ve got you covered. Continue reading to learn the most important questions to ask your builder before your project begins.
When you’re building a luxury custom home, few things are more frustrating than not knowing who to contact when you have a question. Sure, you could contact the main office, but the person you speak with may not know the specifics of your project. Before getting started, ask whether you’ll have a single point of contact during the project.
Here at Rufty Homes, all of our clients have a project manager assigned to their build. This ensures that you can always contact someone who will know the intimate details of your project. We find that this helps our clients to be more involved at every step of the process. In addition to your project manager, you will have a client coordinator in the office who helps keep you and your interior designer on track with schedules, selections, etc. This team is here to answer any questions you have during the process.
Along those same lines, you may find that you feel more connected to your project if you receive regular updates about the progress being made. It’s a good idea to ask your builder how often you can expect to hear about the construction progress.
Our Rufty Homes team knows firsthand that our clients are as unique as the homes they build. No single homeowner has the same preferences as another, which is why we don’t offer a “cookie cutter” approach to communication during a build. Instead, we let you set the tone. If you want to hear regular updates from us, we’re more than happy to provide them. If you’d prefer that we only check in with questions or major updates, we can do that too.
One of the most important questions you can ask your luxury home builder is about the estimated timeline for your project. They’ll be able to give you an estimated completion date by taking numerous factors into consideration, like supply chain issues, design and construction time, weather, and more.
Realistically, you should expect your luxury custom build to take anywhere between one or two years to complete, depending on the scope of the project. When you choose the Rufty Homes team for your build, we’ll be honest and transparent about your timeline and give you immediate updates if something comes up that may delay the completion date. We are not willing to sacrifice quality to save a few weeks of time.
Finally, it’s important to ask your builder about how often you can show up to the job site during your build. Ideally, you’ll be able to stop by frequently, so you can see the process for yourself. After all, this is one of the exciting parts of building a custom home!
At Rufty Homes, we understand that our clients want to be part of the process, which is why you’re free to visit the job site, so long as it’s safe. We encourage you to communicate with your project manager, who will give you guidance on the best times to visit for your own safety.
After reading through this guide, you know exactly what to ask before construction begins on your custom home. Now, you need to find the perfect luxury home builder for the job. We hope you’ll agree that the Rufty Homes team is the right fit for your needs. To learn more about how we’ll approach your project and what sets us apart from other builders, reach out to our team today.
According to at least one survey, 40% of Americans agree that buying a home is the most stressful event in modern life. When you go through the process of building that home before you move in, the stress can multiply. Fortunately, the luxury home builder you hire for the job can make all the difference in your experience.
If you want a build a luxury custom home with less stress, it’s important to be thoughtful about choosing a builder for your project. Continue reading to learn about the most important factors to consider when deciding which luxury home builder to hire.
The best way to get a sense of what it’s like to work with a particular builder is to learn about their reputation with past clients. When searching for a builder for your project, the internet is a good place to start. Research local luxury builders to see what kind of feedback their clients have. You can do this by reading testimonials on a builder’s website, or looking on the company’s social media pages for even more reviews.
Here at Rufty Homes, our reputation means the world to us. Simply put, if our clients aren’t happy, then we’re not doing our job and we’ll do everything in our power to make things right.
It’s also important that the builder you choose has a great reputation with subcontractors in the community. A great builder knows how to treat subcontractors right, making connections that span across multiple projects.
Beyond reputation, you also need to get a sense of the kind of work a builder can do before you decide to hire them for your project. The easiest way to do that is to look through their portfolio of work.
As you look through photos from past projects, take note of the features that stand out to you. Have they built homes that have features you’re interested in? Is there anything you notice in the photos that you do or don’t particularly like? If you find examples that you love, be sure to reference them when meeting with the builder to help them get a better sense of what you’re looking for in your own build.
Also, keep in mind that luxury custom homes are unique to individual homeowners. When a builder has a very diverse portfolio of different styles, it’s usually a good indication that they can listen to a customer’s unique wants and bring them to life.
When you first start talking to a potential builder, pay attention to how they communicate with you. Do they respond to your questions promptly? Do they ask for clarification when needed? Do you make an effort to reach out to you?
How a custom builder communicates with you before you hire them will give you a good idea of how they’ll communicate with you during your project. Look for a builder that communicates with honesty and transparency to give you the best possible building experience.
Here at Rufty Homes, we pride ourselves on our stellar communication skills. We never want you to feel like you’re going through the build process on your own, so we go above and beyond to talk you through each step and answer any questions you may have along the way.
Finally, you’ll want to choose a luxury home builder that puts an emphasis on using high-quality materials. Building a luxury home is no small investment in time or money and it should be done the right way. This starts with using high-quality materials, from tile and cabinetry all the way down to the nails used in the framing of your home.
Before making your decision on who to hire, talk to potential builders about the quality of the products they use. Any knowledgeable builder will be happy to talk to you about the materials they use and why to help you get a better sense of the overall quality you can expect.
When it comes time to choose a luxury home builder in the Triangle, we hope you’ll agree that Rufty Homes is the name to trust. With an unmatched reputation in the community, we have a broad portfolio of work and we take the time to listen to our customers’ wants and needs during every step of the project.
Beyond that, we build our homes to last, so you never have to worry about quality issues down the line. If something happens beyond our control, we promise to be there for you, working to make it right, no matter what.
Are you ready to take the next step towards your custom luxury home? Contact our team to tell us about your ideas and to learn how we can make them happen.
When James and Melissa Burke set out to build their home with the Rufty team, they had two main requirements: the home needed to reflect their modern farmhouse aesthetic and be functional and accommodating for their four young sons. They decided not to rush the process, buying the Rufty Homes' lot in 2017 and waiting to break ground on it until 2020, when the timing worked best for their family. Carter Skinner, the original home designer, played a critical role in the initial plans, as well as, helped James and Melissa realize their overall vision.
“From the very start, the Rufty Homes team made us feel very comfortable. They took the time to listen to our vision, helped us review lots based on the ideas we had for our home, and were flexible, waiting to start on the build until we were ready,” explains James.
When talking through their ideas for a modern farmhouse style, they leaned on the Rufty team to help them find the right designer for their project. “They recommended that we work with Jenn Frost of JSF Designs, and immediately we knew it was the perfect fit,” says Melissa. “Jenn has a clean and tailored style with pops of fun and that’s exactly what we wanted to reflect in our home. The connection we formed was instant and it was great knowing we could completely trust her to bring our ideas to life.”
For Jenn, the feeling was mutual. “Melissa was very organized and knew exactly what she wanted. The goal was to create a fun, welcoming, and functional space for their boys, while still incorporating a cohesive modern farmhouse style with pops of blue throughout. We worked so well together and by the end of the project, Melissa and I had formed a genuine friendship,” she says.
Once the build process was in motion, the Burkes relied on their Rufty Project Manager, Garth Stevens, to help find the best possible vendors. “Garth was always so responsive and kept things organized for us. He took the time to shop around for different vendors and provide us with pricing options, which we really appreciated, especially as this was our first time going through the home building process.”
One challenge during the build was that many materials were back-ordered, due to ongoing supply chain issues. What could have been a headache for everyone involved was instead handled seamlessly. Jenn explains, “Though I’ve worked with Rufty Homes many times over the years, this was my first time working with Garth. He made the process easy. Even when dealing with product delays, he kept open lines of communication so everyone was on the same page and knew what to expect.”
While unforeseen issues always arise during a project, there were a lot of fun moments as well, particularly in creating unique spaces for the Burke’s sons to enjoy around the home. “We created an amazing loft space for the boys, which includes a ladder entry and net play area. We also added an indoor climbing wall so they can stay active. But, even outside their rooms, we made sure there were spaces created with the boys in mind. One of my favorite elements was a hidden door in the butler’s pantry that leads to a small hideaway space. The Burkes wanted a beautiful home, but more importantly, it needed to reflect their family and I’m so proud we were able to do that,” Jenn says.
The end result is a welcoming and cohesive home that is designed to meet the Burkes’ needs now and in the future, as their children grow. Melissa explains, “We love how open the space is and that it’s great for entertaining. We have no doubt that it will be a great place for our kids’ friends to come to hang out as they get older. We can’t thank Rufty Homes and Jenn Frost enough for helping us to navigate the build with ease and deliver the home of our dreams.”
See the full project gallery here.
While you might have every intention of building a luxury “forever” home, sometimes things change. You might, for instance, decide to relocate to a new area. Or, maybe your needs change and your custom-built home no longer works for your family. Regardless of whether you intend to stay in your house forever or for a few years, it’s helpful to learn more about the resale value of luxury homes so you know what to expect should you eventually decide to sell.
We interviewed a few of the experts at Luxury Home Marketing Group here in the Triangle, asking them questions to get their insight into how luxury homes, their features, and their builders all play a role in resale value. We hope you enjoy this fascinating interview!
“I have not been able to identify that a luxury home has better resale than homes in other price ranges, BUT, a custom-built luxury home carries strong resale value.”
“Yes, but it can vary based on location and price point.”
“Yes, because the quality of the build stands the test of time.”
“I think it depends on the age of the home and neighborhood.”
“Yes, especially if built by a custom builder like Rufty Homes, as agents immediately recognize the quality of a Rufty-built home.”
“I always mention the builder, especially one like Rufty who has a sterling reputation. Adding Jon’s name to my listing gives the home an automatic edge over the competition.”
“Absolutely, yes.”
“I always mention the builder’s name when listing a resale home.”
“It depends on the builder, but always when it is a top custom builder.”
“I always mention the builder. I think it is important to our clients to know we have relationships with builders… it creates a level of trust on our end.”
“More than increasing the value, it increases the buyer’s comfort level. We do have to explain that a Rufty home will have more custom details than most luxury homes. They are works of art, not just a home. And, we explain that Rufty Homes stands behind the homes they build.”
“Yes.”
“Absolutely - especially since all of Rufty Homes are custom and Jon has an excellent reputation in the Triangle.”
“Absolutely! Rufty has a great reputation in the luxury community.”
“Top features at this time are luxurious kitchens with a scullery kitchen, exceptional outdoor living spaces, covered back porches with phantom screens, outdoor kitchens, well-appointed owner suite closets, a private lot, and accessibility to life amenities (grocery, shopping, dining). Swimming pools are also a must.”
“High-quality trim is always a must in a luxury home as well as the best appliances. Kitchen cabinets are also critical as the kitchen is such a focal point now.”
“Pools, large closets, quality appliances, unexpected things like remotes for screens and shades, whole house water filters, retractable doors, a safe room, a “Costco” room, circulating hot water, several fireplaces, a true spa bath, unique lighting, and a 4+ car garage.”
“Kitchen space, no formal dining, two offices, open floor plans, plenty of outdoor living spaces, pools with water features, fire pits, and a 4+ car garage.”
“Floor plan and ‘wow’ features that set it apart from standard builds.”
“Quality materials, of course, but I think the uniqueness that comes with a luxury home makes it extra special.”
“Media rooms and formal living rooms.”
“Some people say theater, but I still like a quality theater.”
“That depends… with custom homes the buyer plans for their specific needs that sometimes will not add value to the home or fit the needs of future buyers.”
“I think theater rooms are a thing of the past, along with multiple bonus spaces. My opinion only.”
“We have a critical housing shortage in both new and resale homes. Buyers are willing to purchase an existing luxury home in need of updates as they recognize they have ‘good bones’ and they have private, mature landscapes. Being built by a well-respected luxury builder is essential.”
“We have a desperate need for luxury homeowners to have a place to ‘downsize.’ There is nowhere to go if you want a 3600 or 4000 sq ft luxurious home with all the bells and whistles like they have with their large estate homes. So, they end up not moving.”
“Sellers are waiting to sell their homes because there is nowhere to go - no inventory. When luxury resales hit the market, they are gone in less than a week!”
Thank you to everyone at Luxury Home Marketing Group who took the time to share their thoughts with us! To see what sets our homes apart from other luxury builds, learn more about The Rufty Difference today.
Chad and Caroline Day didn’t plan to build a home when they moved to the Raleigh area in March 2020. They always intended to buy a place, but they quickly realized that it was hard to find something they loved that didn’t need a lot of work.
Then, fate seemed to intervene. “We were talking to one of our friends that had already talked to Rufty Homes and they mentioned that Rufty owned another lot on the same street in a neighborhood in North Hills. They encouraged us to reach out to Jon, and we found out that someone else had just backed out on the lot so it was available. The timing couldn’t have been better,” Chad remembers.
After an initial meeting to talk about ideas, the Days quickly realized that the Rufty team matched the quality of what they were looking for in a forever home. “We wanted a home that our family could grow into and that we could enjoy together for a long time. After meeting with Jon, it was clear that Rufty could make it happen. To be able to live right down the street from our good friends made it even better,” Caroline says.
New to the home building process, Chad and Caroline wanted to work with a team that they could trust, and they felt that connection with the Rufty team instantly.
“There was never a question that they were putting our needs first and they were always honest with us. At one point in the building process, we talked in-depth about reconfiguring the layout of the home to change the orientation of the garage. Jon was upfront with us and told us they’d absolutely do it if we wanted, but he warned us that lumber prices were starting to go up, which could impact the project. We appreciated that honesty, and looking back, making the decision not to change the garage was the best thing we could have done,” Chad says.
Even though construction on their home began at the height of the pandemic, the Days never felt like they got anything less than the best from the Rufty Homes team, the subcontractors, and their interior designer, Heather Holcombe. In fact, even when working virtually, they all formed genuine connections, working together to create the home of Chad and Caroline’s dreams.
Heather remembers, “Right away, we had a great connection. Both Chad and Caroline were involved in the process, and we worked together to design a space that’s traditional, yet timeless, that will grow with them over the years. By the end of the project, we achieved their design goals, and we formed a real friendship.”
The result is a classic look, with a blue and white color scheme, statement lighting fixtures, and a nod to Europe through wallpaper accents and the black and white tiled laundry room. Their home also has stunning crown molding details as well as functional spaces like a shoe closet, outdoor space, and home gym.
Caroline explains, “We can truly envision ourselves here for the long run. Not only is our house exactly what we wanted, but we’re in a great neighborhood with our friends and we look forward to continuing to grow our lives here. Throughout the whole process, the Rufty team’s goal was to build a home with our best interests in mind and the end product reflects that. We couldn’t be happier.”
Take a look at the full project photo gallery here. >>
Once again, we're pleased to see the latest custom designs from Rufty Homes featured in a recent Triangle Business Journal Luxury Home magazine. We're honored to feature the top custom homes throughout Raleigh, Cary, Wake County and surrounding communities.
Please join us for our Open House on Thursday, June 28. We're welcoming friends and family to our new workplace. Join us and celebrate 30 years of custom home building. See the details and RSVP here.
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