KC Building Insights

Thinking of building your dream home in Brookside, Leawood, or Liberty? Great choice! But before you break ground, it’s crucial to understand what makes KC construction unique—from soil conditions and floodplain rules to energy-efficient upgrades that actually pay off in our four-season climate.

In this guide, Mike shares the top 5 lessons learned from 50+ custom homes: working with local architects, budgeting for *realistic* timelines, choosing materials that withstand Midwest humidity and freeze-thaw cycles, and why “designing for resale” doesn’t mean sacrificing character.

Forget what you see on national HGTV—KC homeowners are prioritizing *function* over flash. In 2026, our most requested upgrades include: smart storage for busy families, durable countertops that handle chili-season spills, and lighting that works for Zoom calls *and* dinner parties.

We break down the top 7 local trends (like warm white oak cabinets and matte black plumbing fixtures), plus 3 “trend traps” to avoid—like over-customizing for *your* taste and not future buyers’. Bonus: See real before/after photos from our recent remodels in Waldo and Overland Park.

That first hard freeze is coming—and with it, the risk of burst pipes, drafty windows, and sky-high energy bills. Good news: most winter prep takes under 10 minutes and costs less than $20.

Our field team put together a simple, step-by-step checklist: disconnect & drain outdoor hoses, reverse ceiling fans, inspect attic insulation, seal window gaps with removable caulk, and test your sump pump. Plus: what to do if you’ll be away during a cold snap. (Spoiler: It’s not just about the thermostat!)

Meet Jamie and Alex: two teachers turned entrepreneurs who wanted to open a cozy coffee shop in the historic West Bottoms. With no construction experience and a tight budget, they needed a partner—not just a contractor.

This full case study walks through how we helped them navigate zoning for a mixed-use building, design a commercial kitchen within 800 sq.ft., source local reclaimed wood for bar tops, and open 2 weeks ahead of schedule—just in time for KC Restaurant Week. Includes budget breakdown, timeline, and their top 3 pieces of advice for fellow small biz owners.