WILL A KALA HOME FIT MY BUDGET?

Most likely, yes. Every project begins with a budget you establish and are in control of. After you have selected a build location, a process we can help with as you evaluate options, our job is to guide you through a design process that aligns three equally important design targets, 1) the programming of your home such as how many rooms of which type, how large each space should be, and its total aggregate size, 2) your desired finishes like cabinets, countertops, tile, flooring, lighting, etc—everything that shapes how your home looks and feels, and, 3) and the required Kala performance and quality construction that ensure the health, comfort, durability, and sustainability we believe should be equitably enjoyed by every homeowner regardless of budget.

Kala uses a multi-step process to build confidence through the entire design phase to ensure that good decisions are being made by the team regarding the cost of your project. An ever more precise estimate is reviewed at the concept, schematic design, design document, construction document, and permitting stages eliminating almost any uncertainty regarding the final cost of your project. You are free to change your mind at any point in the project regarding how much you wish to spend and there is certainly flexibility if you wish to exercise it. However, the more precise you can be as we enter design the easier it is to maintain budget discipline and the faster and smoother the process will go.

Common costs that our customers often miss initially are related primarily to the build site. Site preparation, access to electric and water utilities, civil engineering, the need for a septic system, and other items can be surprising. That is partly why we like, if possible, to consult with you on the acquisition of your build site. These challenges tend to arise more often in rural or less densely populated areas. But they can arise even in the middle of the city. We are happy to help. In addition, it is easy to overestimate the size of a home that will meet your goals leading to a larger and more costly structure than necessary.

Yes. Applying thoughtful design to remove excess space and to find beautiful finishes that represent good value are the easiest ways to control cost for any construction project. If you are working with our architecture and interior design team we will provide meticulous guidance throughout the process, helping you maximize your budget to create your dream home. If you are working with an external architect or interior designer you will receive guidance from them but we stay deeply involved to ensure that your project can be realized in the budget you have specified.

No. The construction projects requiring financing are able to take advantage of conventional lending practices. The only difference is the use of the Residential Green Addendum and the importance of using an appraiser and lender that understands the importance of how your new Kala home performs, something we can help you with by connecting you with lending partners that will work with you to ensure you can move easily through the financing portion of the project.

Nothing. Every home we build is high performance and fully meets our customers expectations in terms of programming, aesthetics, and finishes.

Kala homes typically reduce the cost of energizing a home 50% - 70%. It is not unusual for this to be $100 - $400 or more per month in savings. Additionally, Kala customers enjoy years of freedom from many traditional maintenance and repair costs like wood rot, window replacement, foundation moisture, roof leaks, ice dams, short cycling of mechanical gear, and other items that can accumulate into $1,000s of dollars per year over time.