Cramer Homes

Hello,

It is unfortunate that this client has decided to write a misleading review about our company. He has chosen to leave out a lot of critical information which would undoubtedly change the way the review is perceived. Without getting too long winded I feel it is only fair that I reveal a little more of the story behind this very unique and unfortunate situation. In our 15 years of business, this is the first time we have had a negative on-line review.

After entering a contract to build a custom home with our company, the client had some very unfortunate circumstances arise throughout the process. I would never disclose any of our client’s personal information. The same is true in this case, I will explain and defend our position, without mentioning any names and I will be as vague as possible to protect the family.

This client suffered through a lot of personal, financial and employment turmoil during this construction project, it was a very unfortunate situation. The project was put on hold due to the client's circumstances multiple times. As a company, we were very sympathetic and understanding. We tried very hard to help the clients through their difficulties, stretching this project out 19 months (this home should have only taken 4-5 months to complete). We made many exceptions for them to try and ease the stress on their family and move forward with finishing their home. It was an unfortunate situation, even more unfortunate that they chose to take their frustrations out on our company and our contractors. We have no control over our client’s personal lives or finances. In our many years of business, this situation has never occurred before. We are a family business working to help our clients and their families. It is regretful that they are not appreciative of all the concessions we made in an effort help them.

In reference to the “quality issues” the client mentions….

Range hood: The clients hired their own appliance provider. Vent duct was installed in the wall stud cavity as dictated by their cabinet/kitchen design. This duct has a 16" margin so the installer should have no problem centering the hood on the range. Our company had nothing to do with the range hood installation. They purchased their appliances on their own at a “Black Friday” sale (against our recommendation).

Plumbing: Our plumbers use PEX PVC waterlines, not copper. (Most plumbers switched to PEX a decade ago.) PEX offers many advantages over copper. Copper is old technology and is only used in certain situations. The client refers to these components as rubber and brass in his review, which is incorrect (just noting for clarity). We use high quality products that exceed all building code requirements.

I am not sure what items the client is referring to as “pre-built” materials? This was a custom home. Everything was built as per plan. This home plan was a one of a kind custom plan the client chose. This was not a spec home as he states in his review. Windows, doors, etc. were ordered as noted on the plan and specification sheet which is agreed to upon at contract signing, all items are noted very clearly and we go over each line item at the time of contract.

Other issues the client notes in his review are items that were directly linked to their change in finances and thier inability to allow us to complete the home. It is unfortunate he has decided to take these exceptions we made to try and help them and present them as a flaw in our construction practices. They seem to have forgotten the special agreement we made, which allowed us to finally complete the home. This was necessary to get their mortgage approval.

We are a custom homebuilder. We have been building homes for 15+ years, with over 200 homes built. Our family takes pride in the homes we build. We literally have hundreds of happy customers. Many of our new home clients are referred to us by happy homeowners, whom we have built homes for! We form long lasting friendships with nearly all of our clients! As a matter of fact, these clients were referred to us by satisfied customers we had built a home for just a few months prior!

Jeff Cramer