Myths about home building BUSTED!

People have all kinds of misconceptions about building a custom home. Here at The Calvosa Organization, we’ve heard just about everything. These are the five most common myths, and how we counter them.

MYTH #1: Building a home is difficult/stressful.

FACT: Building your own home can be an exceptionally rewarding experience. It all depends on the builder you work with. Experienced, professional builders will help make the process an easy one and will walk you through every step. Lack of communication can leave homeowners unsure about what is happening or when it is happening. At Calvosa, we make sure you know what’s going on at all times, and that you feel comfortable with the process.  Homebuilding-process-calvosa

MYTH #2: You won’t be able to get the home/features you want.

FACT: Knowing the difference between semi-custom and custom construction is the first step in managing your expectations. Are you choosing an already existing plan/design and customizing a few aspects of it? Or do you want to build a home from scratch? At Calvosa, we can handle either of these paths. We have a library of plans you can choose from, as well as a team of professionals that can custom design the home of your dreams. Whatever you want, we will work with you to make it happen. 

MYTH #3: Builders are unreliable/untrustworthy.

FACT: As with anything, knowledge is power. While there are bad builders out there, most of us are reliable and dedicated to doing a good job. Check reviews of any builders you are considering, and take note of positive and negative comments. We recommend that our potential clients come meet with us to ensure we have a rapport, and are able to communicate easily. Having a good working relationship with your builder makes all the difference in your home building process. If you work with a reputable builder and have open communication with them from the start, you can expect your home building experience to be a good one. Another myth is that a builder will recommend only the most expensive options. The entire purpose of engaging a home builder is to create the home that’s right for you. At Calvosa, we suggest features and options that will fit each family’s needs, but also fit your budget. Speaking of which…  

Calvosa-exterior-floorplanMYTH #4: Building a home is too expensive.

FACT: Buying a previously owned home is cheaper… until you figure out how much it will cost to upgrade/remodel it. Remodeling can cost on average about twice as much per square foot as building new. Did the previous owners leave it well maintained? How old are the windows, the HVAC unit, the roof, etc. Think of the expense and stress you may encounter replacing those! When designing a Calvosa home, you can budget to include the things you really want, while enjoying the benefits of up-to-date systems and building codes.

MYTH #5: Building a home is bad for the environment.  
FACT: New homes are built to be more efficient with resources than older homes. As technology advances, the materials that go into building a home, the appliances that run inside of it, and the resources the house requires to function, are generally better for the environment. The latest trend in building is “green,” which means new homes are made to be better for the environment. Older homes have less efficient insulation and air-sealing methods, which mean the house doesn’t stay warm in winter or cool in summer. Calvosa homes offer better insulation, low-E windows, energy efficient appliances, and high-quality heating and cooling systems. (We also offer a state-of-the-art solar-energy package.)


Listen to the facts! We’re ready to help you build your dream home. Contact us today at 631-563-2551 or info@calvosaorganization.com to get started!

Check Out This Stunner on Harley Court in Holbrook!

Customizing a new home is an experience unlike any other! With the chance to incorporate your style into each part of your home, your living space will feel entirely like you. Not to mention, our “Calvosa Touch” makes this process easier and more enjoyable than you ever imagined.


Two happy homeowners customized a home on the lovely Harley Court in Holbrook, and are now living their dream lives. A spacious foyer introduces the home’s luxurious vibe, complete with sleek hardwood floors and an elegant staircase. From custom light fixtures to wall colors — and everything in between — this half-acre lot home was built straight from the minds of the homeowners!

On the first floor, a spacious dining room, living room, laundry room, and bathroom are perfect for privacy and space, as well as for entertaining guests. The gorgeous, wide open kitchen is draped in elegant white and finished with accents of silver. These homeowners love making memories while cooking their favorite meals here!

The second floor has 4 incredible bedrooms with large windows and sleek gray walls, where anyone can sleep and hang out comfortably. A luxurious bathroom with a glass shower and relaxing tub make unwinding at the end of the evening feel like a spa session! A second bathroom provides the same feeling of comfort and luxury. On the same floor, an attic can be turned into anything you want — from a fun game room to a calming home office, the choice is always yours.

Are you ready for an innovative, breathtaking home that speaks to you and your distinct lifestyle? Are you ready for a home that’s entirely you?

 The Calvosa Organization is with you every step of the way, and makes the homebuilding process smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable. With us, you get to personalize your dream home with endless customizations!

We currently have one more homesite available and waiting for you on Harley Court in Holbrook, starting at $789,000! Let The Calvosa Organization turn your vision into a real home!

For more information on our stunning custom homes, visit www.calvosaorganization.com, drop us an email at info@calvosaorganization.com, or give us a call at 631-563-2551.

6 Signs You’re Working with a Great Builder

Choosing a builder – especially a custom builder – is an important process. From the quality and style of the homes to your ability to get along, finding just the right builder is vital. Here are some signs that you are working with a great builder:

  1. They are busy… but not too busy. If a builder has a good reputation, clients will line up for their services. While the jobs they are currently working on should take priority over new work, be sure to ask how many jobs there are and how the workload is managed before committing. At The Calvosa Organization, Vince Calvosa makes every family feel as though they are his only client. He works directly with each home buyer, designing a home and a process for each project.
  2. They’re trustworthy and dependable. If you find a builder recommended by someone you respect, that is a huge confidence builder. Whether it’s a friend or the local HBA, you’ll know they are trustworthy. Plus, you can inspect their work and get a feel for how they operate. Vince Calvosa has been building homes on Long Island for a long time. He and his crew are well-known and well-respected, and they are eager to have prospective home buyers look through their past jobs.
  3. They have a good team. When you hire a builder, you are inviting a group of strangers to become a very big part of your life. It is vital that your builder has a team that you respect and feel comfortable with. At The Calvosa Organization, you will work with an in-house architecture and design team that guides you through the creative process. Then, a best-in-class project manager and team of craftsmen ensures you get top quality construction and service.
  4. They have good ideas, and can stick to a plan. Any builder can (hopefully) follow a set of blueprints, but a great builder can think beyond what’s on the page. When you discuss your project, take note of good ideas and practical advice they builder may have. Also take note of whether they are straight with you about whether you’re being unrealistic. You need your builder to tell you the truth, not tell you what you want to hear. Vince Calvosa and his extended family of professionals work together to create a home that incorporates all aspects of your life, while staying conscious of budgetary constraints and practical needs. From 10,000 square foot custom homes to modest first homes, they know how to build unique residences – and stay on target.
  5. They’re on time and return your calls. Finding a builder who arrives on schedule for meetings is a good sign. It shows good time management and organizational skills, as well as respect for your time. Builders who return phone calls in a timely and respectful manner also pass the “great builder” test. If the builder you’re considering doesn’t hit these marks, then you should look somewhere else. Vince Calvosa prides himself on building close, personal relationships with his clients. If you need him, he’s never more than a phone call away.
  6. They have a brand. The builder that invests in cultivating a “brand” is also likely to be extremely dedicated to building a strong business and a positive customer experience. Look at their website, business cards, work shirts and vehicles. Are they consistent and professional? Is there good organization? Vince Calvosa is so dedicated to building the best homes on Long Island that he literally puts his name on every one. There’s never a question of where the buck stops. Talk about branding.

High quality materials will make your home last longer!

Throughout the ages, mankind has used a variety of materials to build homes. Certain materials have proven themselves to be dependable, sturdy, and flexible enough to meet the changing needs of people and architecture. Regardless of the materials, though, quality is the big differentiator. Here are a few examples of how the quality materials we use here at The Calvosa Organization help our homes last longer.

  • Natural materials such as stone, brick, copper and slate have been used in construction for centuries because they are durable, low maintenance, and reliable. Homes that use these materials – like ours – are built to last.

  • Wood can last for a very long time if taken care of properly. Whether used for shutters, doors, flooring, or trim, certain species of wood have incredible strength, and are naturally rot-resistant. The biggest thing to remember is that water is the enemy, so any wood must be kept dry and sealed.

  • Iron and steel are the backbone of many buildings for good reason – they are strong and adaptable. Whether they’re used in beams or studs, rebar or door frames, iron and steel will last practically forever.

  • Modern high-tech materials are dependable, too. High-quality vinyl, fiber cement, fiberglass or aluminum are lightweight yet strong, and can last for decades if properly cared for. Which is why we use these materials for our exteriors.

  • High-quality eco-friendly & energy-efficient materials like foam insulation, MDF, and recycled wood and plastic composite lumber are reliable substitutions for aforementioned materials such as wood and fiberglass.

Whether your home is 20 years old or 2 years old, superior materials make the difference between something that lasts and something that is fleeting. At The Calvosa Organization, we firmly believe that if you start with the best quality, employ the best craftsmen, and maintain it properly, your home will endure for years to come.

10 Reasons to Come Celebrate the Barlow Model Grand Opening at Grace Estates!

The Calvosa Organization will be celebrating the Grand Opening of our new Barlow model at Grace Estates on Sunday, August 6th from 12:00 – 4:00 PM. There will be drinks and refreshments, and you can meet with Vince Calvosa in person!

 

You’ve seen the virtual renderings on our website… Now you can come see this incredible home in person! If you’re still undecided, we have 10 reasons why you absolutely want to come tour the spectacular Barlow model!

 

  1. Though classically designed, the open floor plan is ideal for today’s families.

 

  1. The traditional brick exterior & distinctive architecture convey a sophistication that’s rare in new homes.

 

  1. The elegant kitchen has stainless appliances, solid wood cabinets, a large island, and stone counters.

 

  1. The stunning master suite includes an extensive walk-in closet, and a luxurious bath with a shower and freestanding tub, marble tiles, and a double vanity. 

 

  1. The formal dining room is designed for generations of family dinners and holiday celebrations. 

 

  1. Gorgeous 3.5-inch white oak flooring runs throughout the home.

 

  1. There are old-world details like an open central staircase, vaulted, tray & coffered ceilings, and deluxe molding and trim. Wait till you see the two-story foyer!

 

  1. It is located on a cul-de-sac, in a one-of-a-kind neighborhood on the South Shore.

 

  1. Just 1 mile from Great South Bay, Grace Estates offers easy access to shops, restaurants and entertainment in town.

 

  1. Prices start at $1.3 million.

 

The Barlow model is located on Huntting Lane, East Islip, NY 11730. For more information about the Grand Opening or Grace Estates, call 631-563-2551 or visit CalvosaOrganization.com.

 

We look forward to seeing you on August 6th!