How The Under-Insured Are Rebuilding
A report on the state of the 2007 San Diego fire survivors estimated that 1/3 fall into the category of being under-insured. This is and was alarming news to those that thought they were adequately covered. It was unwelcome news to those that have already lost so much.
It raises many questions. How did we get into this mess? Where do we turn? In such circumstances, it is easy to reach a conclusion that nobody understands your dilemma.
When the CEO of Envision Custom Homes heard about the high percentage of under-insured, he said, "I want to help the underinsured rebuild. Let's do everything possible to make it happen."
His challenge caused the staff of Envision Homes to study carefully their process for fire survivors. The first step is critical -- an analysis of the policy by a licensed adjuster to ensure that the under-insured maximize their insurance proceeds. Once the budget is clarified, then an architectural design of their custom home is completed. This step requires a number of meetings.
In the design process, there are opportunities to make things work. Expensive design features may be modified, square footage may be reduced by a small percentage, flooring upgrades eliminated or postponed, and adjusting the mix of amenities - all without sacrificing quality. And the design may also be done to accommodate adding desired upgrades at a later date.
Envision calls this approach "budget maxing" and it works to restore hope. The builder and the client work closely together to plan and rebuild a custom home that fits their needs and budget. It does take time and effort but is worth the investment.