Testimonials - John Mauk

“The team at CMB epitomizes conscientious and committed service. It's rare to find an organization (in any field or industry) with equal parts expertise and patience. It's even more rare to find an organization with the prowess to maintain its qualities during hard times, e.g. COVID supply chain issues. CMB did it.

We had never built a home (or had one built), so we began the process with every imaginable question. Through each phase, we had a string of elementary concerns. In fact, we worried that our persistent questions would wear thin. With a less attentive and patient builder, they may have. But Colin and his team were always glad to explain, re-explain, and guide us through uncertainties. We'd heard all kinds of lore about builders, but we realized early on that we could call our builder, site manager, or product/budget manager at any point and we'd get a call back immediately. We had persistent phone, email, and F2F contact.

As with any complex process, a custom home project is apt to involve revision, re-tracing, or even mis-communication. Weather, supply chain issues, and product variables will impact the process. The important question is how the team will manage such variables. CMB was agile and nonplussed. When something went off the rails, they recalibrated, managed all concerns, and put any issue to rest quickly. We learned, early on, that CMB has immense experience and knows how to weather all the strange possibilities that may come along.

We also came to understand the crucial role of a local network. So much about a new build depends upon a wide range of professionals beyond the immediate crew. CMB relies on the best (Boardman Valley Electric, Bay View Flooring, Creative Kitchens, Rite Choice Plumbing and Heating, B&Z Well Drilling, TC Mirror and Shower Door, Michigan Gutters, Northern Garage Doors, Hallmark, Thomas Building Design, ETNA Supply). It was also no surprise to hear praise about our builder as we worked with these companies. In short, CMB is part of a professional community, the best of the region.

Finally, it's important to note the budget and schedule--practical matters that can bedevil clients. Here's the thing: From day one, Colin estimated our completion date and total costs. We came in slightly ahead of schedule and slightly under those initial estimates. (Of course, individual results may vary! We made some sober(ing) decisions early on, but the CMB team helped us to see all possibilities.) We were fully aware of costs and options at each phase.

Thanks to CMB, we have a home--one we'd imagined for years--and we have total trust that it's been thoroughly considered. CMB is clearly developing longterm relationships with its clients. We're grateful to be among them.”