Building a new home is one of the most exciting yet daunting experiences in life. You want a builder who delivers on their promises, provides quality craftsmanship, and stands by their work.
Schell Brothers, a prominent name in the homebuilding industry, has been making waves in regions like Delaware, Richmond, VA, Nashville, TN, and Boise, ID. But is Schell Brothers the right choice for your dream home?
In this comprehensive review, I’ll break down the pros, cons, and maintenance tips for Schell Brothers homes. I’ll also compare them to other leading builders like Ashton Woods Homes, Tri Pointe Homes, and Rausch Coleman Homes to help you make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether Schell Brothers is worth your investment.
Consider Schell Brothers With My Experience
Schell Brothers has earned a reputation for building energy-efficient, stylish homes in desirable locations. They’ve also received accolades like being named Builder of the Year 2023 by ProBuilder Magazine, which speaks to their innovation and industry recognition. However, like any builder, they have their strengths and weaknesses. Let’s explore the reasons why Schell Brothers might still be on your radar.
Energy-Efficient Homes
One of Schell Brothers’ standout features is their commitment to energy efficiency. In an era where sustainability is increasingly important, this is a significant selling point.
- What They Offer: Schell Brothers designs homes with energy-saving features such as high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows, and advanced HVAC systems. These features not only reduce your carbon footprint but also lower utility bills over time.
- Why It Matters: If you value eco-friendly living, this is a major advantage. Energy-efficient homes are more comfortable to live in, with consistent temperatures and improved air quality.
Variety of Architectural Styles
Schell Brothers offers a wide range of architectural styles, from modern farmhouses to traditional designs. This flexibility allows you to find a home that reflects your personal taste.
- Customization Options: They provide ample opportunities to customize your home, from floor plans to finishes. Whether you prefer an open-concept layout or a cozy, traditional design, Schell Brothers can accommodate your preferences.
- Curb Appeal: Their homes are known for their stunning curb appeal, making them stand out in any neighborhood.
Award-Winning Reputation
Schell Brothers has received numerous accolades over the years, including being named Builder of the Year 2023 by ProBuilder Magazine. These awards highlight their innovation and quality in the homebuilding industry.
- Industry Recognition: As a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the Homebuilders Association of Delaware, Schell Brothers has solidified its reputation as a reputable builder.
Strong Sales Process
Many customers praise Schell Brothers’ sales team for being knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful during the initial stages of the homebuying process.
- Personalized Attention: The sales team takes the time to understand your needs and preferences, guiding you through the selection process with care and expertise.
- Transparent Communication: Schell Brothers excels at keeping buyers informed, providing detailed explanations of costs, timelines, and the overall process.
Community-Focused Approach
Schell Brothers doesn’t just build homes—they build communities. Many of their developments are designed to foster a sense of belonging among residents.
- Amenities and Lifestyle: Their communities often include amenities like parks, walking trails, and community centers, making them ideal for families, retirees, and everyone in between.
- Location Choices: With developments in sought-after areas like Delaware beach resorts, Richmond, VA, Nashville, TN, and Boise, ID, Schell Brothers offers a variety of locations to suit different lifestyles.
Innovative Technology
Schell Brothers incorporates modern technology into their homes, making them smarter and more convenient to live in.
- Smart Home Features: Many of their homes come equipped with smart thermostats, security systems, and other tech-savvy features that enhance daily life.
- Future-Proof Design: By integrating the latest technology, Schell Brothers ensures their homes are adaptable to future advancements.
Commitment to Customer Satisfaction (In Theory)
Schell Brothers offers a warranty program designed to address post-construction issues, providing peace of mind for homeowners.
- Warranty Coverage: Their warranty program covers structural defects and other issues that may arise after you move in.
- Room for Improvement: While the warranty program is a positive feature, its effectiveness depends on execution. Some customers have reported challenges in getting issues resolved.
Read More: My Thought on Rausch Coleman Homes Reviews
The Pros Of Choosing Schell Brothers
- Energy-Efficient Homes: Their commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency is a major advantage for eco-conscious buyers.
- Variety of Designs: Schell Brothers offers a wide range of architectural styles and customization options to suit diverse tastes.
- Award-Winning Reputation: Their industry accolades demonstrate their innovation and quality.
- Strong Sales Process: The sales team is praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and transparent.
- Community-Focused Developments: Their communities are designed with amenities and lifestyle in mind.
- Innovative Technology: Smart home features and future-proof designs add convenience and value.
The Cons Of Choosing Schell Brothers
While Schell Brothers has its strengths, there are some significant drawbacks to consider.
- Construction Delays and Management Issues: One of the most common complaints is the lack of communication and frequent delays during the construction process. Customers have reported multiple changes in construction managers, leading to confusion and frustration.
- Quality Control Problems: Several reviews mention significant issues with workmanship, including bowed walls, poor tile work, and incorrectly wired HVAC systems. These problems can turn your dream home into a nightmare.
- Warranty and Post-Construction Support: Many customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the warranty process. Issues like unresolved repairs, missed appointments, and poor communication have left homeowners feeling neglected.
- Customer Service Concerns: While the sales team receives high marks, the overall customer service experience is inconsistent. Homeowners have described dealing with Schell Brothers as frustrating and exhausting, with little resolution to their problems.
Maintenance Tips For Schell Brothers Homes
If you’ve already purchased a Schell Brothers home or are considering one, here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind:
- Inspect Everything Thoroughly: Before moving in, conduct a detailed inspection of your home. Look for issues like uneven flooring, poorly installed fixtures, and HVAC problems. Document everything and ensure it’s addressed before closing.
- Stay on Top of Warranty Claims: If you encounter any issues, file warranty claims immediately. Keep a record of all communications and follow up regularly to ensure your concerns are being addressed.
- Hire Independent Contractors for Repairs: If Schell Brothers’ warranty service is unresponsive, consider hiring independent contractors to fix any problems. While this may cost more, it can save you time and stress in the long run.
- Monitor Energy Efficiency: While Schell Brothers homes are designed to be energy-efficient, it’s important to monitor your utility bills and HVAC system to ensure everything is functioning as it should.
How Schell Brothers Compare To Other Brands
To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare Schell Brothers to other leading builders like Ashton Woods Homes, Tri Pointe Homes, and Rausch Coleman Homes.
1. Schell Brothers vs. Ashton Woods Homes
- Quality of Construction: Ashton Woods Homes is known for its attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship, while Schell Brothers’ quality can be inconsistent.
- Customer Service: Ashton Woods prioritizes customer satisfaction, offering a more seamless and supportive experience compared to Schell Brothers.
- Innovation and Customization: Ashton Woods takes customization to the next level with their Studio Series, offering more personalized options than Schell Brothers.
2. Schell Brothers vs. Tri Pointe Homes
- Quality of Construction: Tri Pointe Homes has a more reliable track record when it comes to construction quality.
- Customer Service: Tri Pointe Homes offers better customer service, with a dedicated customer care team and a streamlined warranty process.
- Innovation and Design: Tri Pointe Homes leads the way in innovation and design, offering more cutting-edge features compared to Schell Brothers.
3. Schell Brothers vs. Rausch Coleman Homes
- Affordability: Rausch Coleman Homes focuses on affordability, making homeownership accessible to a wider range of buyers.
- Quality of Construction: Rausch Coleman Homes offers more consistent quality compared to Schell Brothers.
- Customer Service: Rausch Coleman Homes prioritizes customer satisfaction, offering a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faq)
As a privately held company, Schell Brothers’ exact net worth isn’t publicly disclosed. However, their extensive portfolio and industry recognition suggest they are a significant player in the homebuilding market.
Schell Brothers was founded in 1994 by Chris and Preston Schell. Over the years, they’ve grown to become one of the leading homebuilders in the Delaware beach resort area and beyond.
Final Thoughts
So, is Schell Brothers worth it? Based on my research and the mixed reviews, I’d advise caution. While they offer beautiful designs, energy-efficient features, and award-winning innovation, the numerous complaints about construction quality, delays, and customer service are hard to ignore.
If you’re set on working with Schell Brothers, make sure you do your due diligence. Inspect every detail, stay on top of warranty claims, and be prepared for potential challenges. However, if you’re looking for a more reliable and stress-free experience, you might want to consider other builders like Ashton Woods Homes, Tri Pointe Homes, or Rausch Coleman Homes.
At the end of the day, building a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Take your time, weigh your options, and choose a builder who will deliver the quality and service you deserve.