In this series of interviews, we had the privilege of speaking with experienced and innovative professionals in the new home construction industry. Today, we shine the spotlight on three prominent builders: DeGraff-Bloom Custom Builders, Trojanski Builders, and Pigliavento & Associates. Join us as we learn more about their backgrounds, philosophies, and the unique qualities that set them apart in the realm of home construction in the Capital Region.
DeGraff-Bloom Custom Builders
Q: Can you provide a brief overview of your history, philosophy, and approach to home construction?
A: With a quarter-century of experience in the industry, we specialize in crafting custom single-family homes. Our focus primarily revolves around development projects, where we offer a variety of pre-designed plans. We accommodate the individual needs of homeowners by providing customizable options to suit their preferences.
Q: What types of custom-built homes do you specialize in? Are there specific architectural styles or features that define your projects?
A: We excel at crafting custom homes with a traditional, Craftsman-style aesthetic.
Q: What do you feel sets you apart from other home builders in the industry, especially in terms of design and quality?
A: I personally meet with each homeowner to make sure their vision is fully understood and incorporated into the design process. We conduct design reviews to guarantee that every aspect aligns with the homeowner’s preferences. Additionally, we implement quality-assurance measures at every stage of construction to ensure that the home meets our standards before moving on to the next phase.
Q: What measures are taken to ensure the highest quality in your construction projects?
A: We use engineered wood for framing and conduct moisture assessments on the houses prior to sheetrock installation so that the moisture content aligns with our specifications. These measures mitigate any potential nail pops and cracking, and enhance the overall quality and durability of our builds.
Q: How do you integrate sustainability and energy efficiency into your new construction home designs?
A: We use our in-house team to conduct our meticulous air sealing process to ensure that the house not only meets, but exceeds the code for air changes. We integrate engineered wood products where we can, and our heating systems are custom-engineered for efficiency and comfort. We also collaborate with reputable solar companies to accommodate clients interested in incorporating solar solutions into their homes.
Q: How does Sterling Real Estate Group work hand-in-hand with your business to ensure a seamless experience for clients interested in new construction homes?
A: The agents that we work with at Sterling are all certified, new construction specialists—they live and breathe new construction, and it’s a different animal. They offer hands-on support tailored to each client’s needs, while seamlessly integrating with our established processes. Though they officially represent Sterling Real Estate Group, they function as a vital extension of our team.
Q: Are there any upcoming projects or developments that you are particularly excited about?
A: We’re excited about all of our developments! But we are working on two projects now—the first is Edgewood Estates in Clifton Park, which is tailored to a clientele seeking high-end, customized offerings. The second project is in Milton, which features our signature standard product and boasts a prime location near Saratoga.
Q: Any final thoughts or anything else you would like to add?
A: We highly value our relationship with Sterling Real Estate Group. They possess extensive knowledge and expertise in new construction, which is crucial. Their understanding of home building fundamentals, process timelines, and effective client management shows their professionalism and dedication.
Trojanski Builders
Q: Can you provide a brief overview of your history, philosophy, and approach to home construction?
A: I come from a family-owned business background in Rochester, where I worked during high school and after college. Transitioning to Belmonte Builders, I served as a project manager for several years. In 2014, I ventured out on my own, briefly merging with another construction company before returning to independent operations.
Q: What types of custom-built homes do you specialize in? Are there specific architectural styles or features that define your projects?
A: Our company stands out for its ability to cater to clients of all levels and preferences, offering tailored services and flexible pricing. We customize every aspect of our projects, ensuring each home is distinct and our carefully curated specifications reflect our commitment to quality and value. Additionally, we prioritize client education to build trust and transparency throughout the process.
Q: What do you feel sets you apart from other home builders in the industry, especially in terms of design and quality?
A: I am actively involved with our customers throughout the entire project. As a custom builder, we tailor our plans to meet their specific needs, whether it’s for townhomes, mid-range developments, or custom builds. Additionally, I always conduct the final walkthroughs, which I feel emphasizes our commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Q: What measures are taken to ensure the highest quality in your construction projects?
A: Our site supervisors conduct a rigorous 33-point inspection program, meticulously upholding consistency and adherence to our elevated standards across all developments. This standardized approach not only reaffirms our dedication to quality but also instills confidence in our customers regarding the integrity of our processes.
Q: How do you integrate sustainability and energy efficiency into your new construction home designs?
A: We prioritize energy efficiency as a fundamental aspect of our practices. As a standard procedure, we ensure that our homes are insulated with the highest possible R-values, which optimizes efficiency while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Even if the home is constructed with fiberglass, we use spray foam insulation in all primary areas to eliminate air leakage—a strategy that has proven to be successful. Even with the rise of utility expenses, our approach has effectively minimized costs for our clients.
Q: How does Sterling Real Estate Group work hand-in-hand with your business to ensure a seamless experience for clients interested in new construction homes?
A: Sterling Real Estate Group manages our sales and development operations with a high level of dedication, prioritizing training for their agents, particularly in new construction. With over 30 years of experience, I have collaborated with numerous realtors, but none match the level of expertise demonstrated by Sterling. They are the first group I’ve worked with whose agents hold certification in new home sales, and it shows when you work with them.
Q: Are there any upcoming projects or developments that you are particularly excited about?
A: We are currently finalizing a project in the Milton/Ballston Spa area and launching a new project nearby with 14 custom homes and 40 apartments. Additionally, Meadowdale’s second phase, comprising 58 townhomes, is now open, along with Forest Hills in East Greenbush, with a few homesites available there. Grande Highlands in Saratoga Springs/Wilton continues to thrive with over 38 homesites.
We are also thrilled to share that we have been named a finalist for ‘Developer of the Year’ by the Albany Business Journal.
Pigliavento & Associates
Q: Can you provide a brief overview of your history, philosophy, and approach to home construction?
A: With over 20 years of combined experience in residential building and electrical trade, I’m dedicated to delivering top-tier results. My commitment to excellence ensures that each project receives the utmost attention to detail and craftsmanship. I approach every build as if it were my own, and I strive to provide clients with the best possible outcome within the given parameters.
Q: What types of custom-built homes do you specialize in? Are there specific architectural styles or features that define your projects?
A: We prioritize contemporary architectural trends, integrating features like mismatched siding, cedar shakes, stonework, and diverse window layouts. Our core focus is on constructing single-family homes ranging from 1800 to 2800 square feet, though we also have condominium projects in our portfolio.
Q: What do you feel sets you apart from other home builders in the industry, especially in terms of design and quality?
A: I think our family-oriented approach, which includes the active involvement of family members in our business, resonates with customers who are looking for a personalized experience. I also think customers like our homey feeling, and that they don’t feel like they’re walking into a box store or just another file being pushed across the table. Additionally, we try to minimize subcontractor involvement, and we ensure open-line communication throughout every project.
Q: What measures are taken to ensure the highest quality in your construction projects?
A: We have a dedicated foreman on every site to oversee construction from start to finish, conducting daily quality checks across all phases. While it’s impossible to monitor every detail constantly, we diligently manage subcontractors, maintain material standards, enforce timelines, and uphold craftsmanship excellence for all of our projects.
Q: How do you integrate sustainability and energy efficiency into your new construction home designs?
A: We have significantly increased our utilization of spray foam insulation between the first and second floors, while opting for higher-grade blow-in cellulose in our attics to enhance insulation efficiency.
For new projects, we’re prioritizing ZIP wall technology, which integrates a moisture barrier into plywood, offering a sharper look and a better air seal value compared to traditional methods.
Q: How does Sterling Real Estate Group work hand-in-hand with your business to ensure a seamless experience for clients interested in new construction homes?
A: We maintain a highly effective line of communication with Sterling Real Estate Group, and their agents are always extremely responsive to the customers. Our daily email exchanges ensure timely updates, eliminating any sense of uncertainty while enhancing customer satisfaction.
Q: Are there any upcoming projects or developments that you are particularly excited about?
A: Yes, in Wilton, we have a new project consisting of approximately 20 single-family homes, with Sterling Real Estate Group taking the lead. Additionally, we are starting on a substantial condominium project in Glenville, which will encompass approximately 60 units.
From innovative designs to sustainable practices, these builders are at the forefront of shaping the residential landscape of the region. Are you ready to begin your new construction home build process? Contact Sterling Real Estate Group to discuss your ideas and get started today!
Disclaimer: These interviews have been edited and condensed.