Now that we are looking a remodel square in the eye, since the devastating tornado, this might be a good time to reflect about how one goes about deciding on a builder. Fortunately for me, the selection process was simple! We've known Jim Hemphill and his wife for many years, long before my real estate business. I've had the privilege of watching Jim's business grow and had the opportunity to see for myself his consistent commitment to quality over the course of 20 years. Our first buisness meeting with him confirmed that we were in good hands and felt comfort in knowing that he and his crew have the experience to bring our home up to the standard and beauty I imagine in my head. From his gentle voice of reason to his unique ability to assist us in decision making, Jim quickly became a professional we knew we could trust and work with. Our remodel is well under way!
Not everyone, however is lucky enough to personally know a reputable builder. In that case, rely on referrals and ask friends and family. People are quick to want to share their experiences, good or bad. Once you ask around and gather a list of builders, visit some homes they've built, then go to the NAHB (National Home Builders Association)
website: http://www.nahb.org/generic.aspx?sectionID=123&genericContentID=284
and check to see if they're a member. That website is a great resource for getting all your questions answered about the home building process.

Labels: Home Building, Jim Hemphill, kay pratt, real estate, remodel, remodelling, tornados

Anyone who has lived in Oklahoma for a minute knows that tornados are a fact of life here. I've always been sort of amused by them and even somewhat exhilirated watching them....from afar. I know what to do when they are too close for comfort and I've seen first hand the devastation they can cause. However, I've never ACTUALLY had my own home hit by a tornado....until this week! It was 3:00 in the afternoon and I'm normally never home during the day but happened to be there then....and conveniently near our storm shelter. Just like the stories you've heard, the slate gray clouds start churning into a funnel and the wind blows like crazy and then you hear the "whirring" sound. At that point we closed the lid tight on the cellar over us and waited it out which was only a few minutes.

Upon opening the cellar door, the damage was evident immediately. Large trees uprooted all over the yard, fences mangled, debris everywhere and the house behind us had no roof! The eerie quiet quickly turned to sirens and flashing colored lights as the patrol cars surrounded the neighborhood to offer assistance. Three cheers to the Edmond Police Department for quick response!!!

Fortunately, although the damage was extensive to our home and many others near us, there were no injuries or lives lost in our area. That was not the case in Lone Grove, OK. Our hearts go out to the families there.

While recounting the event of February 10th, many friends and associates across the country have asked if I was scared. The answer is, "No." I was not at all frightened because the storm shelter gave me a very secure feeling. While in the shelter, I did not even think we would have damage but even if we did, I knew we'd fix it. I also knew we had insurance and my loved ones were all accounted for. The occassional tornado is the price we pay for the benefit of living among the most hospitable and kind people in the world!

Labels: acreages, Edmond, storm shelters, tornados