Category: TFU

“… refuse to be fearful… Don’t give in or give up believing that in fact your life is yours. It’s unique and not truly in anyone’s daily control but your own. And… that surrendering your peace of mind is counterproductive to problem solving, family fun and colonic regularity.” ~Jack Costantino, President, TFU~

In the grand scheme of things, when approaching a new project, we believe understanding the outcome before a shovel hits the ground is the most important step. Our clients sometimes spend years contemplating, researching and dreaming about their new homes or renovations. We are frequently greeted with a thick portfolio of napkin sketches, clippings and sample plans. After over 50 years as a hands-on carpenter / builder…I’m always impressed with their significant investment in time, their intelligence and awareness of the building process.

Continue reading “A worthwhile Resolution for 2011…. BE FEARLESS!”

“After over 50 years as a hands-on carpenter / builder…I’m always impressed with our clients significant investment in time, their intelligence and awareness of the building process. Beginning with complimentary pre-design Site Evaluation Visits (SEV), TFU provides a permits to paint capability…and everything in between. Our clients decide.” ~Jack Costantino, President, TFU~

In the grand scheme of things, when approaching a new project, we believe understanding the outcome before a shovel hits the ground is the most important step. Our clients sometimes spend years contemplating, researching and dreaming about their new homes or renovations. We are frequently greeted with a thick portfolio of napkin sketches, clippings and sample plans. After over 50 years as a hands-on carpenter / builder…I’m always impressed with their significant investment in time, their intelligence and awareness of the building process.

Continue reading “Sometimes it’s MORE than nice when a plan comes together!”

“Local planning boards maintain a very crucial role in the managed growth of a community. And understanding their expectations is crucial to moving your new construction project forward in a timely and methodical fashion.”

On the surface, it would seem a community should always welcome new residential construction. Benefits include additional tax revenues as well as the opportunity for local merchants to expand their sales. Companies absorb new users of electricity, water, and related utilities. School systems have the opportunity to grow as well, attracting new talent while offering the student body expanded services.

Continue reading “Local Planning Boards – their needs versus your wants”

“Using a whole peeled tree as a post can be startling to some; but never fails to provoke conversation while communicating the reality of the living trees we’ve invested in the process. There is no doubt that when moving through this beautiful space visitors will be reminded that they are strolling through a relocated forest; emphasizing the value and importance of the eco -friendly management of our timber lands.” ~Jack Costantino, President, TFU~

Although our obvious focus is Timber Frame / SIP, design assembly and construction, I must admit I LOVE LOG cabins. For years, as a youngster, my family and cousins spent every summer in two beautiful cabins at the base of Bish Bash Falls in Copake, NY. My Aunt Henrietta a well known NY artist painted a scene which hangs in our living room today. In fact I believe it would be difficult to find anyone who isn’t charmed by LOG structures. Our remnant pioneer spirit is stimulated by the experieince of spending time in one.

Continue reading “Thinkin’ INSIDE the LOG…”

“…think about approaching a financial institution and investing further in your home’s inherent value – chances are you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the result.”

With the holiday season in full swing, this is the perfect time of year to engage in a brief discussion regarding illiquidity.

Continue reading “Home ownership – an investment and a piggybank!”