Common Questions: The ins and outs of building a custom home.

What is Larsen’s experience in homebuilding?

Larry Larsen is the president and owner of Larsen Development Company and has a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from Kansas State University. He has been designing and building homes in the Denver area for more than 35 years.  He has received numerous national and local awards in recognition of outstanding home design and construction management, including Builder of the Year. He has designed and constructed hundreds of homes in the Denver metro area.  

Will Larsen incorporate customized designs and details in my new home?

Larsen Development is all about details and customized design. Larry Larsen personally supervises the design and all of the details. Larsen builds a limited number of homes each year so that we can customize your home and provide the attention to detail that you deserve.  

If I find a house or plan I love, can you build it?

Show us your plan and share your ideas. Together we can make it better. We love the challenge of taking your ideas and creating the home you want.    

What if I want a totally custom home designed from the ground up?

Tell us what you want. We know how to manage the process of developing custom plans. Larsen Development has built numerous, award-winning custom homes over the years, including the 1995 Parade of Homes Best Custom Home.

If I have seen one of your homes and want a home with some of the same features, can you do it?

Larsen Development can design your home by customizing features of proven floor plans.  We know from experience what floor plans work the best and what they cost to build. We will not repeat exact floor plans and exteriors.  However, we can create your unique home by building upon proven, popular plans.
 

How do I select all the cabinets, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, tiles, carpets, paint colors, etc.? I think I need professional help.

Larsen customers work directly with experienced professionals to select all of the finish materials in your new home. This professional guidance is included in our design build management fee.

I want to know how furniture will fit in my house.  I can’t tell by looking at plans.

Interior designers will professionally space plan the furniture layout for your home.  We have found that many home plans do not furnish well.  This professional service is included in our design and build management fee.

I need help selecting window coverings and I want to buy some new furniture for my new home.  How can I accomplish that?

Interior designers are available for an additional fee to design, purchase and install window coverings, furniture and accessories. You deal directly with the interior designer.  They know your plans and finishes, and can help with a few pieces or a complete turn-key design. Please keep in mind that your own designers are always welcome.  

What will my home cost and how are you compensated?

Larsen is a cost/plus, fixed/fee homebuilder.  We work with you to establish a line item budget.  We agree upon a fixed design build fee for Larsen to create the design and manage the construction of your home.  This fee stays fixed during construction even though you may decide to upgrade your home. You pay the actual cost of all labor and materials that go into your home.  All costs are totally transparent.

How long will it take to build our home?

Larsen can build your home in 7 to 8 months.  Design and permitting your home will take 2 to 3 months.

How do we find a lot to build on?

Larsen may own lots that you can build on or we can find a lot for you. We receive many good leads from owners that are looking to sell their home.  Call us anytime to discuss how we can help you. 

How does the financing work to build a new home?

The two common types of construction financing are traditional construction loans and construction permanent loans. We can assist you in obtaining these loans to buy a lot and build your home.  You will close on the loan in your name.  The construction loan advances funds to purchase the lot and pay all construction costs.   

We want to be environmentally responsible.  Are you a builder that understands sustainability and green building?

We are a certified green builder and have extensive education in green building.  We have been certified under the National Association of Home Builders Green Building Program.  We are an ENERGY STAR partner and all our homes exceed ENERGY STAR standards. We use third party energy rating companies to verify that the design and construction of the home maximizes efficiency. Our energy rating company inspects critical construction processes and certifies the home when completed. We have a third party building sciences consulting company that continually advises our company on how to improve our performance.  

I understand that solar panels may make sense and the utility companies and government help pay for it.  Do you have experience in how this works and what it costs?

Larsen has experience in designing and installing solar photovoltaic systems.  These systems can provide much of the electricity your home requires.  If you want solar, we know how to lead you through the process.  Xcel Energy and the federal government currently subsidize a significant portion of the cost.  

Is Larsen a member of an industry trade association and do they stay current on industry trends and education?

Larsen Development Company is a member of the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Denver, Colorado Association of Home Builders and the National Association of Homebuilders.  Larry Larsen has been actively involved with the homebuilding industry for many years. Larry Larsen is a Lifetime Director of the National Association of Home Builders and past President of the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Denver.  He has held many other industry association positions.  Larsen Development stays current on industry trends by being actively involved in the industry and through continuing education programs.

Does Larsen belong to the Better Business Bureau?

Larsen Development is a member of the Better Business Bureau with a Gold Star “A” rating.

Does Larsen provide a warranty on their homes?

Larsen homeowners are provided with a one-year materials and workmanship warranty and a six-year structural warranty.

How is the Larsen warranty managed?

Larsen’s homeowners warranty is managed by ProHome, a third-party warranty management company.  ProHome is available 24 hours a day to handle emergency and routine requests.  We monitor ProHome's service to ensure that you are receiving the service you expect.

Can you give us references of people you have built homes for?

Certainly.  We will be happy to give you names, addresses and phone numbers.