If you’ve ever built a home, you know that beauty, quality and cost-savings don’t always mix. And with some projects, the deeper you go into the building process, the more those elements seem to diverge.
That designer tile you first admired in the showroom? The expanded kitchen island you fell in love with in the brochure? Sure, you were told you could have it all back when you began. But now as your home nears completion, the truth emerges: it’s all going to cost you more than you thought.
With three decades of experience building and developing communities in Johnson County, Rodrock Homes has recently launched several new programs to help new home buyers not only avoid up-front sticker shock, but also get the most value from their home long-term.
“Helping homeowners strike that perfect balance between value and style,” says Rodrock Homes CEO Brian Rodrock, “it’s what we’re known for and what we continue to do.”
One of those ways Rodrock Homes is helping buyers get the most for their money is through their Energy Efficiency Program. Because lower monthly utility bills mean homeowners have money left over for more visible amenities—like that designer bath tile, for instance—clients appreciate the value.
Rodrock Homes’ Chief Marketing Officer Jeff Reglin admits that saving energy isn’t usually top of mind for buyers looking to build a home. “It’s not glamorous or the first thing they look for,” says Reglin, “but six months after they move in they’re grateful for those savings.”
So that homeowners can enjoy both long-term energy savings and maximum comfort, the company provides furnaces and air-conditioners several grades above what city codes require and many builders install.
Many Rodrock homes come standard with a 16 seer heat pump and a 96% AFUE gas furnace. Mike Bryant, Owner of Mike Bryant Heating and Cooling, says the units give homeowners between 15 and 20 percent more energy efficiency than builder-grade models. “Some of the air conditioners function like two units in one. They operate at a different speed on milder days so homeowners save money,” says Bryant.
Rodrock Homes also installs as standard heavier-than-required insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics, something independent Energy Rater and NSPJ Architect Tim Baldridge says is vital to both comfort and cost-savings.
“The insulated envelope of a home needs to be continuous and unbroken,” explains Baldridge, who says Rodrock Homes deserves kudos for installing R-15 and R-50 insulation when only R-13 and R-38 is required. “Plus, if they’re sealing all their attic ductwork, that’s major,” he adds.
Steven Wayland, General Manager for Star Insulation agrees. “Insulating your attic is number one—that’s where you really save money,” says Wayland, who installs R-50 insulation in all Rodrock Homes’ attics. “Because people don’t see insulation, they don’t always think about it, but they see the financial impact for years to come,” says the expert.
Helping clients attain not only short term savings but also long-term returns on their home investment is key for Rodrock Homes, which builds as well as develops entire communities in south Johnson County like Wyngate and Summerwood. “Because we’re a developer too, we’re just as interested in preserving the long-term value of your home as you are,” says Jeff Gifford, Chief Operating Officer. “The bottom line is, we’re here for the duration,” says Gifford.
Like energy efficiency, quality craftsmanship and professional décor also translates into lasting style and extended value for Rodrock Homes’ clients. Double showers, expanded kitchen islands, custom cabinetry, and extensive millwork come standard on many floor plans, and the company’s innovative partnership with Kansas City’s Twigs Interiors allows buyers to outfit their homes in design boutique style without paying design boutique prices.
Better Homes & Garden realtor Erika Kauffman says she’s impressed with the quality, choice, and value in home décor options that Rodrock Homes offers.
“They’re generous and reasonable with the allowances they provide, making it very possible for a homeowner to stay within them,” says Kauffman, who recently watched a client choose flooring, paint, wall coverings, millwork, cabinetry, countertops, and even window treatments for her Wyngate home with the help of a dedicated Twigs’ design team.
And while design elements like river rock showers, shaded wall sconces, wainscoted stairways, and faux-painted ceilings are visible reminders of value, homeowners say the intrinsic values of owning a Rodrock Home—like increased family and personal time—are positively priceless.
Floor plans with lasting style ranging in price from the upper $200,000s to $800,000 have been finely tuned to offer the lifestyle-enhancing amenities buyers say they crave the most.
Expansive granite-topped kitchen islands double as timesaving stations for both food prep and family workspace. “It’s an area that’s “homework central,” says Reglin. “You can cook spaghetti and help with geometry at the same time.”
Mudrooms outfitted with computer desks and cubbies keep clutter away, while spa-like master baths with European showers encourage adult relaxation at day’s end.
Best of all, most amenities are available at every price point. “Whether you’re building a $400,000 home or a $700,000 one, we’re going to maximize the luxury and convenience you get for every dollar,” says Brian Rodrock.
To see energy efficient interiors, expert decor, and luxurious amenities for a value, come tour Rodrock Homes’ furnished models in Wyngate or call 913.851.0347 to meet with your Rodrock Homes’ team.
