Vendor Spotlight – Toner Architects

Toner Architects is known for architecture that inspires surprise and delight, pushes boundaries, and finds unique opportunities in every project. They are driven to shape spaces that create long term value through collaboration and innovation. Their culture fosters long-term relationships through a shared passion for design, architecture, and building.

Toner Architects has experience on a wide range of project types, from single- and multi-family residential to commercial and hospitality, and are especially adept at adaptive reuse and complex site conditions. They are licensed in PA, NJ, DE, and OH.

Mid-Year Review

As we close the second quarter, RH Home Builder is excited to share the strides we’ve made in establishing our presence in New Jersey. Our journey in this new market has been both challenging and rewarding. We’ve actively bid on a variety of projects, including additions, basements, decks, and, notably, the early stages of new home builds.

Our commitment to not compromising on quality has been a guiding principle, even when it means we’re not the lowest cost provider. This steadfast dedication has led to some lost opportunities, but it has also laid the foundation for a reputation that we’re building to last. Our promise to deliver unparalleled quality in every project remains unwavering, as we continue to align our work with the values that have always defined us.

Building our New Jersey team has been a key focus, aiming to create a strong local presence that reflects our commitment to the community. While we are still in the process of assembling the right team, we’ve encountered moments that required us to lean on our established relationships with subcontractors and vendors from Pennsylvania. This has been an essential part of our growth, ensuring that we maintain the quality and reliability that our clients expect from us.

As we move forward, our goal is to have a fully local team, reinforcing our dedication to New Jersey and its residents. RH Home Builder is more than just a home builder; we’re a community builder, and we’re excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we continue to cement our footprint in New Jersey.

Construction Tip: Energy Efficiency

Opt for energy-efficient designs & materials to save on utility bills & reduce environmental impact.

The planning process is a great time to research not only a renewable energy system (which can provide electricity, water heating, or space heating/cooling) but also materials and features that promote energy efficiency.

Some potential energy savings options (which can also help to reduce environmental impact) to consider are:

  • Low-E and gas insulated windows
  • Structural Insulated Panels (ZIP Board)
  • Closed cell and Open Cell Insulation
  • Energy Efficient HVAC Units and Appliances
  • Solar Energy Panels and Systems

Even if you are only able to incorporate one or two energy saving design elements, it can make a big difference both financially and environmentally!

Meet Jon Martin – Acquisition Specialist

Jonathan Martin is a distinguished real estate professional with a robust background in the industry since 2017. A proud graduate of Susquehanna University, Jonathan has honed his expertise in identifying unique opportunities within the real estate market. His career has been marked by a keen focus on sourcing off-market lots for development and finding distressed homes to rejuvenate and flip. With a remarkable track record of buying and selling over 100 properties, Jonathan has made significant contributions to the real estate landscape.

Currently, Jonathan is dedicated to his role at RH Home Builder, where he leverages his extensive experience to find the perfect parcels of land for customers, ensuring their visions for dream homes become a reality. His commitment to excellence and deep understanding of the real estate market dynamics make him a vital asset to the RH Home Builder team and its clientele.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jonathan brings the same level of passion and determination to his personal life. A former college athlete, he continues to embody the spirit of competition and teamwork, avidly supporting all Philadelphia sports teams. His love for sports is matched by his affection for his dog, Gus, with whom he shares a special bond. Jonathan Martin’s journey in real estate and life reflects his unwavering dedication, strategic acumen, and the joy he finds in every challenge and success.

Our Values: Vision

Our vision is what sets us apart and guides us to see beyond the blueprint and materials. Every nail hammered, every design drafted, and every decision made in imbued with it in mind.

We’ll continue to push boundaries, challenge the status quo and build the foundations for families to thrive. Our vision is the cornerstone of everything we do, crafting homes that aren’t just places to live, but spaces where life’s best moments are celebrated.

Meet Rochelle – Creative and Administrative Specialist

Rochelle brings a wealth of experience as the Creative and Administrative Specialist. Since joining forces with the team in 2016, she has been a key contributor to RH Home Builder, handling a wide array of tasks that span administrative duties, creative endeavors, and marketing initiatives; including a variety of graphic design and marketing projects.

Incorporating her skills into every project she undertakes, her meticulous attention to detail and knack for seamlessly integrating industry best practices with dynamic market trends ensures that her projects consistently remain at the forefront of innovation.

Construction Tip – Design for Your Lifestyle

Tailor your home’s design to fit your lifestyle; consider factors like family size, hobbies, and future needs.

 

One of the biggest benefits of building your own home is the degree of customization you will enjoy.  You have the opportunity to design your home around your lifestyle.  Be sure to consider:

  • Family Size – Whether your family is multi-generational or full of fur babies, you’ll want to make sure you design a space that can easily accommodate everyone.
  • Hobbies – Let’s face it; hobbies can take up a lot of space.  Big or small, you can incorporate storage solutions for your hobbies into your custom home designs.  From garage lofts to custom built-in’s and dedicated craft spaces, the options are endless.
  • Future Needs – In-law suites? An extra bedroom in case the family grows? Consider widening your doors and hallways to at least 36” to allow for ease of mobility devices that could be needed for family members in the future.  This could save money from extra work and construction being needed at a later time.

Enjoy the freedom of designing a home that is perfectly curated around your lifestyle.

Construction Tip – Select the right plot

Consider factors like location, soil quality, topography, and public utility access before purchasing your plot.

 

Determining where you’ll live is just as important as determining who will build your dream home.  Be sure to consider:

  • Location – Do you prefer to be in the middle of it all or have a quiet country retreat? Is it close to amenities and transportation?  Too close to railroad tracks?
  • Soil Quality – The foundation of your home relies heavily on the quality of your soil. Choosing the right plot can go a long ways in saving you financially.  Good soil quality can also be a boost to home gardens.
  • Topography – Not only important for the overall aesthetic and feel of the land surrounding your home, understanding the topography can help to ensure your home building plans are viable.
  • Access to Public Utilities – Can you easily tap into public water, sewer, and gas services or are you focused on living off the grid with well water, septic, propane and solar?

These essential considerations can help you select the perfect plot of land for your new home.

Meet Alex Benazet – Operations Manager

Alex holds a degree in finance and has a background in corporate FP&A and operations. He began his real estate journey in 2018, working for Raza Homes as an operations manager.

Since then he has helped the organization more than double in size by streamlining its technology and operations as well as assisting with key acquisitions and project management. He is also a licensed real estate agent in PA.

Princeton Court Bid

The Team at RH Home Builder is thrilled to share some exciting news about our latest project that highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and transformative renovations.

We have recently bid on a promising property located at “Princeton Court” in East Brunswick, New Jersey. This project is not just any renovation—it’s a comprehensive transformation.  The project was already started by the homeowner, but it proved to be too difficult for him to finish.  We are happy to come in and save this renovation and take it to the finish line.

Project Scope

Complete Cleanout & Demolition: We’ll start with a full cleanout followed by the demolition of existing drywall to prepare for a fresh and sturdy rebuild.

Structural Enhancements: Our plan includes reframing damaged joists and doors to ensure structural integrity and longevity.

Electrical Overhaul: We’re installing all new electrical systems, including a modern panel to meet today’s energy demands safely and efficiently.

HVAC Updates: The relocation and optimization of HVAC vents will enhance comfort throughout the seasons.

Insulation: Full insulation will be installed to improve energy efficiency, keeping the home warm in winter and cool in summer.

Drywall Installation: New sheetrock will be hung and meticulously finished, setting the stage for the interior decor.

Painting: A professional paint job will refresh the entire space with a modern, inviting palette. We will use a popular color along with one of the top brands either Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams.

Kitchen Remodel: The heart of the home will see a complete transformation with new solid plywood cabinets, a luxurious quartz countertop with an undermount sink, and modern fixtures.

Flooring: The installation of new luxury vinyl plank flooring will round out the renovation with a durable and stylish foundation.

Finishing Touches: We will install all new trim around doors and windows, alongside new interior doors to enhance both the style and function of the space.