--- title: "Vacation Home Builders — Home Builders | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/vacation-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~1543577633 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1543577633.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Vacation Home Builders" category: ["Home Builders"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/4b93f7240e24b9db_9723-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "185 Cedar Point Drive, Livingston, Texas 77351, United States" latitude: 30.6829 longitude: -94.8976 phone: "(936) 646-6767" website: http://www.vacationhomebuilders.com rating: 4.7 review_count: 10 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 171 last_updated: 2026-11-05 --- # Vacation Home Builders Original Houzz profile: [Vacation Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/vacation-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~1543577633) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Home Builders - **Location:** Livingston, TX - **Serves:** Livingston, Houston Texas - **Houzz rating:** 4.7 out of 5 (10 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2013–2017), for Service, Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves Our firm specializes in the Design and Building of amazing urban retreats and Vacation Homes throughout the US, and limited work overseas. Commissions have included a tree house that much like Swiss Family Robinson was designed to look as if it was salvaged from a sailboat. One current development is Cedar Point on Lake Livingston. This large gated community offers amazing waterfront homes with great open water views and is where we are creating a old coastal feeling community using modern techniques. Our design staff is equally comfortable working with our own construction crews or remote with yours. We have been very successful in capturing the essence of a lot maximizing the views while working around the challenges. In Laguna Beach we created a four story home where due to local building codes the home could not extend but one story above the roadway. Since the client wanted a much larger home we were able to create the space by going down giving the appearance of the home "hanging" from the canyon wall offering amazing views and some real mystery for guests. Our belief is that when properly designed a home looks indigenous to the property as if its always been there or at least should have been. We adopted the thought of energy efficient sustainable homes long before the modern green movement became so popular and build homes as if we were going to live in them ourselves. While we have received many awards and been written up in numerous magazines the greatest honor we have is our current clients, recommending us to their friends. President Charles Von Schmidt has also published several articles and books on design if you would like to obtain copies for yourself please see our website or a local book store. The most recent book is "Your Home- Elements of Design. We would be honored to take the journey together with you to design your new home. The firm is headquartered on Lake Livingston and hour north of Houston, Texas. ### Services Provided - New Home Construction - Custom Homes - Energy-Efficient Homes - House Plans - Green Building - Floor Plans - Universal Design - Site Planning - Structural Engineering ### Areas Served - Livingston - Houston Texas ### Typical Job Cost $300,000 - 1.8 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Vacation Home Builders | | Address | 185 Cedar Point Drive, Livingston, Texas 77351, United States | | Phone | (936) 646-6767 | | Website | http://www.vacationhomebuilders.com | | Followers on Houzz | 171 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Vacation Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/vacation-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~1543577633) - **Website:** http://www.vacationhomebuilders.com - **Phone:** (936) 646-6767 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Graduate Master Builder - Certified Aging in Place Specialist - Certified Green Professional - Numerous Design Awards including Best of Houzz 2013 for design. - Several Magazine feature articles and Covers - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2013–2017), for Service, Design. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA)](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/greater-houston-builders-association-ghba-pfvwus-pf~848277130) - [Texas Association of Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/texas-association-of-builders-pfvwus-pf~2014183583) - [NAHB Certified Green Professional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-green-professional-pfvwus-pf~1100930283) - [NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-aging-in-place-specialist-pfvwus-pf~471784673) - [NAHB Graduate Master Builder](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-graduate-master-builder-pfvwus-pf~186571986) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.7 out of 5 — 10 reviews** ### All 10 reviews **★★★★★ — funatfifty, Aug. 2016** > Charles has gained our total trust throughout several builds. His personal knowledge and ideas proved invaluable to the process. His commitment to getting things done right stands out. Unlike experiences with other builders in the past, his follow-up on problem areas has been what you hope for. Buying this home was a great experience, and we highly recommend this firm for building your home. **★★★★★ — HU-213590, Aug. 2016** > This is the kind of person you always hope to meet in business. He was professional, experienced and honest. He stands behind his work and completes what he says he will do within the time frame he promised. We were lucky to work with such a great company and person. Charles loves to communicate so you will always know what is going on. We love this company! **Comment from Vacation Home Builders:** > Thanks so much we try and treat each home as if we wanted to live there and your comments make this all worthwhile. **★★★★★ — Janet Y., Aug. 2016** > Extremely knowledgeable and passionate builder who cares about quality. Charles listened to my needs and made my dream a reality far beyond my expectations. If you're looking for high quality and style, look no further. **★★★ — beckytucker, Sept. 2013** > We purchased a home built by Vacation Home Builders 2 years ago. There were things that remained to be completed at close. We were assured they would be completed. Two years later.... Still waiting. A repair had to be made to the garage at our expense that took 9 months and cost a small fortune for what should have cost a couple hundred. Extremely disappointed in the service and screened phone calls by site supervisor. Shame on you! Had the audacity to send a note of commitment to service. Fuel for fire. **Comment from Vacation Home Builders:** > We completed all items that I'm aware of in a timely manner handicapped by the long delays in your reporting to us. However we finished, if there are undisclosed issues please do not hesitate to contact my by email. The last visit by a member of my staff resulted in you trying to hire him to do some electrical work on the side which of course he had to decline. We are proud that we exceeded the provisions of the contract and you received many upgrades for free. > > More concerning to me is your understand of the expensive repairs you refer to In your comments. Perhaps you have forgotten that this was not a builder defect but actually due to a limb falling through your roof many months after you closed. I understand it was expensive as we had to replace Sheetrock, remove mold, and repair the roof . I also understand that because there was little rain and you only visit occasionally you may not have noticed until it became such a mess however please remember you are the property owner and responsible for upkeep of your home. We built your home with industry standard 7/16 OSB roofing and covered it with 30 yr shingles. > > When you reported the leak and damage to us, I sent a supervisor out to look at the damage as I have never had a roof failure with the modern materials we use today. Upon his arrival he discovered the limb still in your roof and took photographs showing this which we sent to you and explained this was not a warnteee issue. After some time you agreed to pay us to fix the problem. > > This could have been discovered many months earlier and reduced the damage. We caution home owners that they are the Stewarts of their home and need to be on huge lookout for issues which ultimately reduce the cost of home ownership. You did not maintain or deal with this issue in a timely manner and were it not for my firm sending a superintendent out to make the repairs it's likely you would still have the same hole in your roof. I'm confused at how your failing to maintain it become the responsibility of the builder? > > Prior to writing such a negative and somewhat biased review I wish you had contacted me if you felt issues existed, it's been more than a year perhaps two since I last had the pleasure of received any emails from you. This also brings up the screening, my superintendents do not work In an office they are out on jobs insuring that our plans are fully complied with. You communicated directly with me by email and this or text is how most of our superintendents, subs, suppliers and clients are contacted. We do not allow them to communicate except in extreme emergencies with clients by phone. This is our preferred method as it eliminates misunderstandings or confusion and provides a written record of changes or issues. > > I am sorry that you feel this way, we pride ourselves on that with over 415 homes built we are regarded as a leader in the field and hope that you continue to enjoy your home. I wish you the best in the future. **★★★★★ — freeeeed, June 2013** > Vacation Home Builders provided all aspects of building our home from design consultation to land preparation, through all phases of house construction. We were afforded every opportunity to expess desires, seek advice and request changes. We were always treated respectfully and professionally. I have had several homes built over the years. Most proved to be difficult experiences. Vacation Home Builders stands out as being easy to work with and a cut above the rest. I definitely recommend this firm. **★★★★★ — orthojoe, June 2013** > Charles and his crew have done several jobs for me over rhe past six years , including foam insulation of my office building, air conditioning work, electrical work, as well as several maintenance items. They have always done an outstanding job and are very knowledgable, professional and courteous. **★★★★★ — mlj\_hrhj, June 2013** > Vacation home builders worked with us from concept to reality . > They helped us put our house in a better location for the design we had . > To making the house a reality with a build of excellence . We had small issues during the build which they dealt with professionally and met our every needs . Our house wouldn't be what it is without the help > Of Amy the designer and Charles Von Schmidt > The builder ! **Comment from Vacation Home Builders:** > Thanks so much for the kind words. We enjoy the process and your company. **★★★★ — POA Management Services, June 2013** > As I provide property management services throughout the Lake Livingston area, I have had the occasion to serve two clients whose homes were built or remodeled by Vacation Home Builders. These homes are some of the best built homes I have seen. From a caretaker perspective, VHB has always responded quickly to any warranty issues, but compared to other new homes I have had responsibility for, these issues were very few and relatively minor. > > If I were in the market to build a custom, Vacation Home Builders would be my first stop. **★★★★★ — hayes2455, May 2012** > Vacation Home Builders created a lakeside, 2 story, 3 bedroom home for us. The design was beautiful, creative, with energy saving aspects that reflected well on the developer's experience. > The developer was very good about keeping us informed as to the progress of the building and asked for our opinion during the project. The developer was also prompt in following up on our requests even after the closing. > We would not hesitate to recommend Vacation Home Builders to anyone wanting a first class home. **Comment from Vacation Home Builders:** > Thanks Monica Its been a pleasure and Amy on my staff feels as if she has found a family not just a client. **★★★★★ — Denise Hayes, May 2012** > Vacation Home Builders created a warm and modern lakefront masterpiece from a dated 1970's style house. > Charles Von Schmidt is a wonderful builder who is wonderful with whom to work. > We highly recommend Vacation Home Builders without reservation! **Comment from Vacation Home Builders:** > LOVE you guys thanks for the kind words. You know it would not have been the same home without your vision. Using the same color with three different sheen's really taught me a new trick. ## Selected projects - [Dubose Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dubose-home-pj-vj~284659) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - [Jones on Waterfront Drive](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/jones-on-waterfront-drive-pj-vj~50554) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Garland Lake LIvingston Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/garland-lake-livingston-cottage-pj-vj~50556) - Location: Houston, TX - Photos: 1 - Description: Proof that small efficient homes can still be beautiful. This home incorporates all of our energy saving technology, quality materials in a small footprint, more like a fine yacht than a small house. - [Hayes Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hayes-home-pj-vj~50550) - Location: Lake Livingston, TX - Photos: 3 - Description: Fabulous waterfront home in clean white and modern colors, this three bedroom lake house fits the needs of this family with three separate master suites. - [Corder Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/corder-home-pj-vj~266819) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - [Jupp Lake House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/jupp-lake-house-pj-vj~51682) - Location: Livingston, Texas 77351, TX - Photos: 36 - [Okeefe Lake LIvingston Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/okeefe-lake-livingston-home-pj-vj~51909) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - [Pinwah Pines Hayes Lakehouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pinwah-pines-hayes-lakehouse-pj-vj~51694) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - [Hranicky Lake Livingston Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hranicky-lake-livingston-home-pj-vj~50560) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 20 - [Schott Lake House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/schott-lake-house-pj-vj~50553) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Hutchison Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hutchison-home-pj-vj~50551) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - [Treehouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/treehouse-pj-vj~47877) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 16 - [Whispering Pines](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/whispering-pines-pj-vj~47874) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 21 - [Yurgensen Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/yurgensen-home-pj-vj~47870) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 [See all 14 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/home-builders/vacation-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~1543577633) ## Community Q&A **Q: What material is the floor? Thank you.** *(in Photo Questions)* It looks like concrete. A: I'm so sorry this message seems to have been lots for a long time. Yes the floors are stained concrete sealed with a waterbased sealer. **Q: Approximate size of the room?** *(in Photo Questions)* We used to have an enclosed out building with our hot tub, loved it! You could use it in all weather year round. This would be a wonderful side addition to our current home. Looks just big enough, do you know the room size. A: 8 x 11 is the rooms size. The windows really open up the area **Q: Love the spa / tub, can you give details on manufacturer?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: This is a 60 inch neo angle drop in tub with jet system built by jacusi **Q: WHAT COLOR PAINT IS USED ON THE WALLS? THANKS** *(in Photo Questions)* A: These all use a granulated product from Lowes that adds a granite like texture to the coated surfaces. In fact the product was originally called liquid Granite by the stores. It is available in a variety of colors this one is forest lawn. However like most suppliers they seem to constantly be changing the names of the colors. However Lowes still has the product and the color. **Q: what is the name of this granite?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: This is lapidus. A mid range granite runs 19.00 psf in Texas **Q: Hole in the countertop** *(in Photo Questions)* Is that for trash? Thank you, Megan A: We did not build this home however in the past I have down the exact same hole with a wine cooler built in that sits under counter hiding the pumps and chillers. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-05.*