Your Best Kept Secret

There is something intriguing about a secret room. It's something you hear about in fiction stories, but secret rooms have a history going as far back as the Egyptians. In the past they were used as escape routes, hide out places for evading capture, illegal drug smuggling, and more. In the modern times, secret rooms are a new and fascinating design feature.

A secret room can range from a niche for hiding a safe, to an underground wine cellar, to an entire room. Here's a creative idea for a secret room --a remote control lifts the stairs revealing a study for the family's teenage daughter. Fun, right? One very lucky teenager actually received this as a gift from her parents.

What a find it would be if you discovered a secret room within your home. Don't think you have one? Well, that's what one homeowner thought before she discovered a secret room almost one year after moving in. You might be wondering, why didn't the previous owners disclose it?  If you tell others about the secret room, it's no longer a secret room, right?

When constructing a secret room it is wise to consult a professional. Safety measures such as an exit strategy and proper ventilation need to be considered. If building your own, keep in mind that a true secret room means there is no evidence of the room from the outside --no joins or wires that might give it away. The cost of a secret room can range anywhere from the low thousands to over 50,000 depending on the complexity of the room. Although it might be difficult, if you are planning on constructing a secret room, make it your best kept secret.

Photo source: Pinterest.com

Photo source: Indulgy.com

 

Photo source:  Pinterest.com

Photo source: Lighthome.com

Photo source:  Pinterest.com

Photo source:  Stumble Upon article by Kristie Bertucci

Photo source:  Stumble Upon article by Kristie Bertucci

Selecting a Custom Home Builder

A new home purchase is one of the biggest investments you will make. If you decide on new construction, choosing a dependable and reputable custom home builder is imperative. Be sure to do your research, ask questions, and then choose the best company. To help in the selection process, consider the following:

 

Does the contractor have local knowledge?

The contractor you choose must have a deep understanding of the local area.  Key issues such as building codes, zoning requirements, tree permits, and site conditions differ according to each area.  For example, Sarasota, FL has city and county limits, and each has it's own set of requirements. An experienced licensed contractor will have knowledge of the local area.

 

Does the contractor have a good reputation?

Research the contractor on the internet.  The Better Business Bureau is a good place to start.  Look for additional company reviews and testimonials. Speak with prior clients.  Any contractor with a good reputation is happy to put you in contact with past customers. 

Is the contractor qualified?
Ensure the custom home builder you chose is qualified to build your type of home. For example, coastal homes require an engineered piling system. Does the contractor have experience with this type of constuction? To ensure a contractor is qualified, speak with past customers, drive by the builder's completed homes or ask to view their home portfolio. 

Is the contractor easy to communicate with?
The ability to talk openly to the contractor and his team members is a must. The entire team should take pride in not only fulfilling your individual needs, but also exceeding your expectations. The contractor should provide flexibility, allowing you to tailor your home designs according to your specific preferences.

Does the contractor use quality products?
Quality is important. Cheap is not the way to go. Furthermore, the contractor's mission should go beyond building high quality, distinctive houses. A good contractor will take that extra step in making your house a home through their superior attention to detail. Don't skimp on quality when building your dream home.