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FAQs

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Is building a new home expensive in Hawaii?

Hawaii tends to have higher construction costs than on the mainland because of three key factors:
1) Transporting materials is more costly because they must be shipped over long distances.
2) The cost of living means the price of labor is higher.
3) Hawaii’s current real estate boom means contractors are very busy and incur more overtime pay competition for skilled labor.

Is new construction more expensive than buying an existing home?

New construction tends to be more expensive to buy than an older home. However, you are likely to be ahead financially with a new home when you factor in deferred maintenance. A new home comes with the protection of a builder’s and manufacturers’ warranties, and it isn’t as likely to require repairs, replacements, or remodeling as soon as an existing home.

Does new construction hold its value?

The answer isn’t simple. Factors such as location, interest rates and the economy can all affect a home’s value. However, current trends on Maui show that the real estate market has remained strong, in part because people see it as a safe place to live during the coronavirus outbreak.

How much does a kitchen remodel cost?

A kitchen remodel — using the existing footprint — will cost $35,000 to $50,000 for updates like replacing cabinets, countertops and other outdated pieces. But a remodel can easily run $100,000 or higher if you’re planning to gut the kitchen, move walls and add lots of high-end appliances and features.

An important question to ask before making this major investment is if you intend to sell within five years or less, or plan to stay for decades. If you’re likely to sell after just a few years, it makes sense to keep your remodel affordable and to stick with neutral colors, and choose upgrades that are likely to appeal to a broad range of buyers.

If you plan to stay longer, get the materials and appliances that appeal to you and make you happy. After 10 years or more, new owners will likely make their own changes anyway.

How much does a bathroom remodel cost?

Bathrooms, like kitchens, can be spendy to remodel and typically don’t return 100 percent on your investment at resale. So unless you’re planning to flip a house, it makes sense to do a remodel that suits you, your family and your budget. A good design team can find creative solutions to help you get the look you want without overspending. A mid-range remodel for a bathroom is usually about $25,000 and goes on up to $75,000 for an upscale re-do.

Many of today’s homeowners are swapping out bathtubs for luxurious walk-in showers with multiple shower heads, benches and custom tile work. Those who love a long soak in a hot tub are replacing Jacuzzi spa tubs in favor of deep soaking tubs, which can have options that include heat, colored lights and even music.

I know I want to remodel my kitchen or bathroom, but I’m overwhelmed with indecision. Can you help me with designing it?

Absolutely! Installing a new kitchen involves countless decisions, and Crescent Homes Maui’s team includes talented designers who will work with you every step of the way. First, they’ll help you home in on your wish list and priorities. Do you entertain frequently? Do you want to have seating around the cooktop? Do you prefer the look of tile floors or hardwood? Then our staff will offer solutions on everything from redesigning your kitchen’s layout to what countertop would work well with your lifestyle and budget.

There are lots of contractors out there. Why should I choose Crescent Homes?

Great question! There are many reasons to choose Crescent Homes, but one of the biggest is our great customer service. When you make a phone call or send an email, we give you a timely response. Those accustomed to the relaxed way business is sometimes done in Hawaii will appreciate our responsiveness.

How can I be assured my project will be done without a lot of delays?

This is a major concern for all homeowners. Crescent Homes beats the competition on Maui 2-to-1 in completion time. That’s because owner Calvin Baty hires his own tradespeople instead of subbing the work out to outside companies. That means a more seamless project with fewer delays.

How do I know I’m getting the best value for my budget?

At Crescent Homes we are diligent about cultivating great relationships with our suppliers. We also do both bigger and smaller construction projects. This allows us to pass along the value pricing we receive for larger jobs on to our smaller jobs.

What does Crescent Homes specialize in?

We are a full-service general contractor and can perform just about any residential or commercial construction project. We do everything from building large luxury homes to multifamily housing complexes, remodeling pools to constructing driveways. You name it, we can build it.

What do I look for in a custom home builder?

When looking for a custom home builder it’s critical that you do your due diligence to check the company’s work and reputation. Talk to former clients about what their experience was like working with the builder. Ask if the construction process went smoothly and if they were kept informed about all aspects of its progress. Be sure to look at the builder’s portfolio and talk with former clients about the quality of the work. Crescent Homes Maui, one of the island’s premier builders of new homes, has earned a reputation for excellence through decades of experience. Call them today to learn more.

What should I expect when buying a new construction home?

When buying a new construction home an important step is determining if the project offers opportunities for customization. Many builders allow buyers to choose a wide range of finish materials, including flooring, countertops, cabinets, fixtures, paint, and appliances. Crescent Homes Maui, one of the island’s leading builders of new homes, has new home projects that buyers can customize before completion. Call us to find out more about how we can make your new island home feel true to you.

Who should I hire to build my custom deck or patio?

Building a custom deck or patio can transform a home’s outdoor space. But a big job like this calls for a licensed and bonded professional with a proven track record. Be sure to ask a builder for references from former clients, as well as an opportunity to view his or her portfolio. Crescent Homes Maui has built thousands of homes and extensive remodeling projects. Call us today to talk about a new deck or patio for your island home.

What should I know about building a custom home?

Building a custom home tends to be more expensive than buying an older home. However, the price difference may be worth it because the home isn’t likely to require repairs, replacements, or remodeling as soon as an existing home. Also, a new home comes with the protection of a builder’s and manufacturers’ warranties. Crescent Homes, one of Maui’s leading builders of custom homes, has more than three decades of experience in residential construction and can answer any questions regarding a new home project. Call us today to learn more.

Which surface is the best for my driveway?

When it comes to longevity and durability, a concrete driveway is far superior to one surfaced with asphalt. In addition, concrete offers many options for customization, such as adding a permanent stain, decorative pattern, texture for traction, or the addition of attractive stones or other elements. Crescent Homes Maui, a licensed and bonded general contractor, specializes in customizing residential concrete projects. If you want the best for your home, call us today. Let’s talk about a new concrete driveway.

How do you care for a new concrete driveway?

A well-constructed concrete driveway requires little in the way of maintenance or upkeep. To get the longest use, Crescent Homes Maui, one of the island’s leading general contractors, recommends that homeowners reseal a driveway about every two years with a commercial sealer. It’s also a good idea to promptly clean up any oil, gas, grease, or other spills before they have a chance to stain the concrete.

How long do I wait before driving on a new concrete driveway?

Most experts advise waiting a full week before driving a personal vehicle on a new concrete driveway. However, it’s a good idea to wait at least a month before using it for heavy equipment or machinery. Crescent Homes Maui has built thousands of new homes both in Hawaii and on the mainland. Call us today to talk about how we can give your home a new concrete driveway that will last for decades.

Where should I start when designing a bathroom?

When designing a new bathroom, it’s tempting to say “How hard can it be? I’ll just do it myself.” But there’s a reason why there are professionals who specialize in bathrooms: The work can be exacting, painstaking, and carry a big price tag if things go wrong. First, consider the space you have to work with, and your budget. Save photos of bathroom styles you like, and visit bathroom showrooms for inspiration on choices for flooring, countertops, and cabinetry, fixtures. Then hire a licensed and bonded design/construction professional such as Crescent Homes Maui to bring everything together to create a stunning new bathroom that you’ll enjoy for many years to come. Call us today and learn why a new bathroom is a job for a top-notch professional.

What does a painting contractor do?

A painting contractor does a lot more than just apply a new coat of paint. After discussing the paint type and color with the homeowner a painting contractor first protects a home inside and/or out (and landscaping) against spills and damage with canvas, sheeting, and tape. Surfaces are then prepped as needed with carpentry repair, caulking, power washing, scraping, and sanding, followed by the application of primer and finally paint. Crescent Homes Maui, one of the island’s leading general contractors, has its own staff for painting projects. Call us today and find out how a new paint job can transform your home.

Why should you hire a professional painter?

Homeowners should hire a painting contractor because inexpertly applied paint can look shabby and will likely have to be repainted much sooner. It’s much more cost-effective to hire a reputable professional to do the job right the first time. Problems with a poor paint job include bubbling, early peeling, and flaking. These can be caused by painting during periods of high humidity, extremes of temperature, or when rain is expected. Also, inadequate surface preparation can also cause problems with paint to arise. Crescent Homes Maui has built thousands of new homes and extensive remodeling projects. Call us today and trust your treasured island home to a professional that delivers quality work.

How much does it cost to hire a professional painter?

The cost of hiring a professional painter can vary depending on the geographical location, size and height of the home, trim work, site location, and more. There can also be significant work required before paint is applied, such as repairs to carpentry, masking, caulking, scraping, power washing, sanding, and the application of primer. According to HomeAdvisor the average cost to paint a home’s interior in Hawaii is $3,358, while the exterior can be anywhere from $5,000 to $9,000. To break down that number by square foot the averages are about $4 to $7 per square foot. Crescent Homes Maui, one of the island’s leading general contractors, can provide a free estimate for painting your home. Call us today and let’s get started.

Does a pool add value to your home?

Real estate experts say a swimming pool can add about 7 percent value to a home in a climate where you can swim year-round, which certainly includes Maui. A pool is also a feature that is attractive to many prospective buyers of luxury homes. However, in order to provide the most value for your investment, the pool needs to be well-maintained, fit with the style of the home, and ideally still allow for some open backyard space. Crescent Homes Maui is a general contractor as well as a certified pool contractor. Call us today to learn how a pool can enhance your tropical lifestyle.

How do I design a swimming pool for my property?

If you’re dreaming of adding a pool to your property a good way to get started is to save photos of pool designs that you like. Look at home improvement magazines, visit websites online, and talk to homeowners who have already had a pool built. Think about whether you want an infinity pool, whirlpool spa, waterfall, fence, or another amenity. When you have your wish list, determine how much your budget is, and then give Crescent Homes Maui a call. As a certified pool professional and experienced general contractor, we are able to help you design the pool of your dreams and then build it to the highest standards. Give us a call today and let’s start the conversation.

Which shape of a swimming pool is the best?

When designing a new pool for your home it’s important to consider how you intend to use it. A curved kidney shape isn’t going to work well for dedicated lap swimmers. But if your expectation is to simply enjoy floating around with a mai-tai while gazing at the view, you can go for a more creative design. Adding a whirlpool spa or waterfall can also influence the shape. And of course, the budget: The pros say that a free-form design may not cost more to build, but it may take slightly longer to build because of excavation requirements. As a certified pool professional and experienced general contractor, Crescent Homes Maui wants you to have a pool that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Call us today and learn how we can help.

Which type of swimming pool is the best?

Determining which type of swimming pool is the best for your home depends on your space, budget, and how you intend to use your pool. An in-ground pool can be a stunning feature to a home, but it costs quite a bit more than an above-ground pool — about eight times more for a concrete pool. An in-ground pool, however, is the type of pool most people expect when buying a high-end home. Be aware that there are also different types of in-ground pools: traditional concrete; vinyl liner pools; and fiberglass pools. If you’re unsure about choosing the type of pool that fits your lifestyle, it’s best to talk to a pro like Crescent Homes Maui. As a certified pool builder and experienced general contractor, we are the top choice on the island for new pools. Call us today and let’s get started.

How much will it cost to build a custom pool?

If you’re wondering how much it costs to build a custom swimming pool you won’t be surprised to learn that there’s a big range depending on the type of pool and the features you choose. A vinyl liner pool can be $60,000 to $80,000; a fiberglass pool $65,000 to $90,000; and a concrete pool $105,000 to $120,000 or more. All have their virtues, which is why it’s important to seek professional help! At Crescent Homes Maui we take your fun seriously. We are a certified pool builder as well as an experienced general contractor. Together we can bring your dream to life. Give us a call today.

What is the best deck material to use around a pool?

The best deck material to use around a pool is usually concrete because it’s durable, low maintenance, slip-resistant, economical, less likely to torch your tootsies on a hot day, and stands up to the effects of water and harsh pool chemicals. There’s also a wide range of decorative treatments that can be used to create a stunning deck that complements your pool and home, such as stamped or stained concrete and exposed aggregate. If you’re looking to build a new pool or resurface an existing pool, call Crescent Homes Maui today. We are a certified pool builder and the island’s premier builder of luxury homes.

How much does it cost to have a custom pool deck built?

Building a custom pool deck can vary widely in cost depending on the complexity of the project and the material you choose, such as concrete, brick, travertine tile, pavers, or wood. A simple concrete deck with perhaps a stain or basic decorative application is approximately $6 to $10 a square foot. A custom deck that has more colors or a contrasting border can run up to $15 a square foot. Hand-applied designs, multiple saw cuts, and more intricate borders will put the cost even higher. The options can make your head spin, which is why it’s important to talk with an experienced professional like Crescent Homes Maui before you make big decisions. We are a certified pool builder as well as bonded and licensed general contractor. Call us today and let’s talk about your new pool deck.

What types of retaining walls are there?

There are several types of retaining walls that are typically used for residential construction. Free-standing walls, boulder walls, and segmental walls typically rely on the gravity of their weight and mass to hold back the soil. But there are also retaining walls that are cantilevered, anchored, or that use sheet piling. The options in decorative styles vary widely too. Don’t trust this important project to anyone but a professional. Crescent Homes Maui is a bonded and licensed general contractor that has built thousands of homes. Call us today and let’s talk about your vision for your home.

Which retaining wall type is the best?

Choosing which retaining wall will work best for your home involves several factors, such as your budget, the style of your home and landscaping, your site, and soil. Poured concrete is the strongest and most durable choice for retaining walls. But any retaining wall needs to be expertly engineered to ensure that the wall can withstand the pressure of the slope, dirt, and water drainage behind it. Be sure to consult a professional before making your selection. Crescent Homes Maui owner Calvin Baty has built more than 3,000 homes and done countless remodeling jobs, pools, and other home improvement projects. Make sure your retaining wall can stand the pressure. Call Crescent Homes today.

What is the difference between stamped concrete and regular concrete?

The difference between stamped concrete and regular concrete is straightforward: Stamped concrete is poured concrete that has been stamped with a decorative pattern, and often given a color stain. There is an astonishing range of patterns and colors you can choose in order to mimic the look of flagstone, tile, brick, and even wood. A key benefit is the durability and low maintenance that concrete provides. At Crescent Homes Maui we are experts in applying a colored stain or stamped design to concrete, whether it’s for a pool deck, lanai, walkway, or another hardscape. Call us today and learn more about this amazing option for your home.

What are the pros and cons of stamped concrete?

There are many pros — and few cons — to stamped concrete. First, concrete is more affordable than many other materials for building hardscaping. It’s also extremely durable and requires very little maintenance apart from cleaning it and applying a coat of sealer every few years. Finally, it’s endlessly adaptable in terms of the color and texture that can be applied to mimic everything from the high-end look of stone to grained wood. In terms of cons, stamped concrete doesn’t lend itself to DIY construction or repairs. To protect your investment, be sure to hire a bonded and licensed general contractor such as Crescent Homes Maui to do this important job. Call us today and learn more about our stamped concrete services.

Need more answers?

Call Calvin Baty today for answers to more of your questions about residential construction and to learn how Crescent Homes Maui can be the right contractor for your home project.

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