On the Home Front Blog

On the Home Front - a guide to custom-built homes.

On the Home Front

Our AB Homes blog is a local’s guide to custom-built homes in Hampton Roads. In our blogs, we will share information about the decision-making involved in constructing a new home. We want to be your resource for all things related to building your new dream home. We hope you enjoy our “On the Home Front” blog.

Join our ForKids Toy Drive – For Families in Hampton Roads

Join our ForKids Toy Drive – For Families in Hampton Roads

There are many families in Hampton Roads who are experiencing homelessness and living in poverty. To help make the holidays a little brighter for families in need, AB Homes is coordinating a toy drive for our friends at ForKids. This nonprofit organization provides emergency shelter to families and children in the region. It’s one of the largest area providers of services to families experiencing homelessness. And they support 14 cities and counties in Southeastern Virginia—including the Suffolk area.

Outfitting Your Home Office for Maximum Productivity

Outfitting Your Home Office for Maximum Productivity

It looks as if people will be telecommuting a little longer, or maybe they’ve made their work-from-home scenario a permanent switch. Either way, it’s important to have a dedicated space and the right equipment for making it work. We put out a few feelers to folks we know who are working remotely. Here’s their advice on how to outfit your home office for maximum productivity.

Five Home Upgrades that are Worth the Price

Five Home Upgrades that are Worth the Price

Your home is one of the most important investments you will make. Naturally, you want it to increase in value over the years. You can protect your purchase by keeping your home’s structure, roof and interior in optimal shape, and checking your HVAC system regularly. In addition, there are upgrades to consider when planning or building your home that will increase its equity if and when you decide to sell.

Not interested in a bidding war? Consider a Custom-Built Home instead.

Not interested in a bidding war? Consider a Custom-Built Home instead.

Anyone who has shopped for a new home lately knows: It has become a sellers’ market. Despite the U.S. recession, buyer demand is surging and bidding wars have begun. Those who can are taking advantage of historically low mortgage rates, or they are looking to relocate to less crowded rural areas. But unless you are willing to out-bid multiple offers with an excessive price for a less-than stellar home, you should consider a custom-built home. Here’s why:

The Top Five Myths about Building a Custom Home

The Top Five Myths about Building a Custom Home

Are you intimidated about constructing a custom-built home? When we first started our business, we noticed there were misconceptions among buyers. Some loved the idea of building a home the way they wanted, but thought it would be a long and involved process. Others believed custom-built would come with a high price tag, or they marked it off as something they could not afford. Going the custom-built route doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—depending on the builder.

AB Homes is Military Proud

AB Homes is Military Proud

Like our neighbors here in Southeastern Virginia, AB Homes is military proud. Our region is home to 16 military bases, so there’s a good chance residents know some of the service men and women who work in our communities. They are among our neighbors and friends. We see them at the gym, the grocery store and all around town. Military members are also our clients, and we know what it means when they have to move to a new base or a Permanent Change of Command Station.

New vs. Resale Homes? There are Arguments on Both Sides.

New vs. Resale Homes? There are Arguments on Both Sides.

There are many decisions involved in buying a home, like New vs. Resale. Should you purchase an existing residence or a newly built home? Resale homes are often found in established neighborhoods with modest, mature yards. That’s nice, but older homes may require sprucing up or renovating. New, custom-built homes give buyers the opportunity to choose a floor plan and design it from the ground up; but will it have the character and appeal of an established home?

Home as your Home Base

Home as your Home Base

We have a friend who has worked out of her house for years. Her home office is on the second floor, in a large bonus room overlooking the backyard. She is accustomed to having the space to herself during the day. Now as more people are working from home, she has an office mate—her husband …

7 Safety Features Every Home Should Have

7 Safety Features Every Home Should Have

Accidents and emergency situations can occur just about anywhere, including our homes. That’s why it’s important to make sure you have safety features in place—from first aid kits and fire extinguishers to an exit plan for you and your family. Read all about it …

AB Homes – On the Homefront Blog

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AB Homes is a custom new home builder in Suffolk Virginia, Isle of Wight County, and in the surrounding cities and counties of Hampton Roads Virginia. We build new, affordable single-family homes for all stages of life, including single people, families, retirees, and the military. With many floor plans to choose from, AB Homes builds on large lots and include a home warranty. We are a Class A Licensed contractor and a VA Loan Approved Builder. Check back for new On The Homefront Blogs.

Contact an AB Homes sales agent for an updated list of standard features. Some pictures and videos may display options or upgrades not included in AB Homes standard features. Standard features are subject to change without notice.