Ask the Developer


Building a new home raises many questions. So we've put together some of the most frequently asked ones as a reference guide. Should you have any additional questions that we've left unanswered, feel free to e-mail us your question, we'll be sure to answer you within a reasonable amount of time or you can contact us directly at our corporate office.

What is brick veneer and how is it attached to the house?
Brick veneer is a non-structural type of masonry construction using one course of brick as an exterior covering on a home or building. It has the appearance of a solid brick wall without the weight or expense. The brick is attached to the house with metal straps, or wall ties, at regular intervals. The brick work on Jacobs Homes shows a great deal of care and craftsmanship. It is rare to see such careful construction in new homes. The quality of the material is evident in the brick itself.
Why does the mortar I see on my house not match the color I selected?
Wet mortar is used to hold the bricks together and it is naturally dark until it dries. The drying process can take as long as a week depending on the temperature and humidity levels.
How long does it take to build a home?
Here in Chicago, the time frame from the start of excavation to completion is subject to weather conditions. Some villages will not allow concrete to be poured if the temperature falls below freezing. The largest factors that contribute to the length of construction include the number of changes requested by the homebuyer, the degree of difficulty encountered to initiate those changes, the size of the home, and the availability of scheduling contractors and the delivery of materials. Generally speaking, a home can be built in 6-8 months from the time construction starts. Townhomes require less construction time and take between 4-6 months.
What kind of insulation and R-factor do you have?
Following the standards of energy-efficiency, our homes have fiberglass batt insulation in the exterior wall and sloped ceilings. The R rating of our exterior walls is a minimum of R13 and the rating in flat ceilings is a minimum of R30. The R-value refers to the insulating ability, the larger the number, the better the insulating power.
I like the look of dryvit. What can I use in its place?
In recent years, the use of dryvit has dramatically ceased due to its tendency to dent easily and reputation to absorb moisture and create dangerous mold. We have started using stucco which is the original, smooth look of yesteryear. Today, it is used on traditional and contemporary homes seeking that old world, French country or more modern style. Stucco is hand applied which allows for varying textures to be used. It is set over either cinder blocks or exterior plywood sheathing so moisture is never a problem. Stucco is a solid, durable, 100% cement, dent-proof material.
Why are brick homes more expensive than other materials?
Brick is an expensive, highly desirable product that is fire proof and maintenance- free.
How accurate are the projected delivery dates?
The construction of a new home requires the thoughtful coordination of many people and various trades. It is highly dependent on multiple factors as the weather, the availability of materials, workmen scheduling and union laws. As soon as the ground is excavated and construction begins, we are able to accurately provide each homeowner with a definitive date for final delivery.
Why do I pay a monthly assessment fee?
If you live in a maintenance-free Jacobs community, your monthly assessment fee goes toward the maintenance of your property as snow removal and landscaping.
Can I bring a personal check to the closing?
Given the size of the transaction, a cashier's check or certified check is required.
How much money is needed for the down payment?
At Jacobs Homes, we require an initial 5% deposit at the time that your contract is signed. The national average goes anywhere from 10-20%. Thirty days after the contract is signed, we will notify you by mail that an additional 5% is due. The remaining balance for your new home is not due until closing. All deposits are non-refundable.
How do I begin to make the many selections, choose my options and upgrades for the design process?
Once your contract is signed, your design consultant will forward you a "welcome letter" which explains the time frame and expectations for the selection process. You will be contacted and asked to schedule multiple meetings with the consultant in our design center, the largest and most comprehensive one on the North Shore. You will select all items in your home with our design consultant including your plumbing fixtures, floor surfaces, countertops, cabinetry and exterior materials, just to name a few. At Jacobs Homes, this process is simplified and nearly every item can be selected from our design center. In addition, this process can be customized to satisfy each homeowner's particular needs and demands.