Jim and Berni
Heleski
Adjusted floor plans, additional square-footage, an erroneous survey, adding an entire finished basement...those were just some of the obstacles Community Builders overcame to help Jim and Berni Heleski build the home of their dreams: a wide-open 2,300 sq. ft. single-story home with a completely finished, wood-foundation basement nestled just off the shore of Lake Huron in Sand Point, Mich.
"This was the first time we built a house and after listening to everyone's horror stories of their homes being built, we expected many problems," recall the Heleski's. "We were pleased that everything went so smoothly and it was a good experience."
The Heleski's could have opted for builders on either side of their family, or a good friend involved in home building. But after following the recommendation of a friend, they contacted Community Builders and immediately felt at ease. "We checked out a couple of homes they built and decided to go with them."
It was a decision they wouldn't regret.
"I think what sets them apart from their competitors is their excellent workmanship and thoroughness," tells Jim Heleski. "We have had many compliments on the trim and finish work." The couple was also drawn to idea of minimal subcontracting; Community Builders does most of their own work...and does it well.
"Some may think they work slower than necessary, but we were more interested in quality work," says Berni. And they certainly got that. Featuring a master suite with a large bathroom and walk-in closet, the home feels, and is, wide open with its vaulted ceiling in the living room and array of windows. Community Builders adjusted the original floor plans to include a sun room to go with the dining room, breakfast nook, kitchen, and first floor laundry.
"We love the custom hickory cabinets in our spacious kitchen and the granite-topped island."
The three bathrooms, sunroom and foyer are tiled. And most of the rest of the house is red oak flooring with a black walnut inlay outlining the living room. The bedrooms are the only rooms with carpet.
"They do most of the work themselves and take pride in doing a good job," says Jim. "Even with all the custom work they did, Community Builders provided ways we could cut costs and still get the look we wanted. They really listened to what we wanted and went over everything to make sure it would work."
The Heleski's entered the fog of home building not really knowing what to expect. They'd heard stories, but didn't want any part of the horror. So they went with Community Builders and its reputation of superior craftsmanship and over 25 years of experience. And the fog cleared pretty quickly.
"We would do it again but only with Community Builders."
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