Behind The Build Podcast

Mitchell Homes
  • 5.0 (7)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

Welcome to Behind the Build, the podcast where Scott Sleeme, President, and Deven Sellers, Executive VP of Mitchell Homes, dive into the essential topics you need to know when building a new home on your land. Join Scott and Deven for informal, insightful discussions that cover everything from the initial planning stages to the final touches of your dream home. Whether you’re a first-time builder or looking to upgrade your current home, Behind the Build offers valuable advice, expert tips, and real-life stories to help you navigate the complexities of home construction. Subscribe to our channel to stay informed, inspired, and ready to tackle your new home building journey with confidence!

  1. MAY 2

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Building your home should feel exciting, not uncertain. That’s why Behind the Build Podcast exists. From day one, this podcast was created to guide you through the questions that matter so you can move forward feeling confident, not overwhelmed.  These questions came directly from you. Just to name a few - we went deep on the ones that shape your experience:  -What does the real cost look like? -What’s included and what isn’t? -How customizable is “fully customizable,” really? -What should you be comparing when choosing a builder? -What tends to surprise homeowners once the process is underway? -How do financing, land, and timing come together? This isn’t surface level. It’s the kind of clarity that changes how you approach your entire new home build. Tune in. Take notes. Let’s build your legacy together. Chapters 0:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 05:38 – If I don't own land already, why should I go with Mitchell? 06:58 – Reference: Purchasing Land 101 episode 09:01 – What areas do you build in? 12:19 – What should buyers be paying attention to when comparing on your lot builders in the market? 17:39 – Do you sell land? 22:10 – Do you help with deed transfer? 22:33 – Are you a modular builder? (or stick-built/custom builder?) 24:38 – What is the average all-in cost? 25:56 – Reference: Customer Responsibilities episode 33:43 – What is included? What does the price cover? 36:42 – Are wells and septic included? / Does the price online include well and septic? / In a scenario where water and sewer connections are needed to public sources, who holds responsibility for connection? 42:01 – Can you do pools? 44:07 – Do you do sidewalks? Paved driveways? 44:34 – Are your homes customizable? / Can I customize my home? 53:11 – How much can we customize our floor plan? 54:53 – Episode is sponsored by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner 55:25 – Can we add an in-law suite? 56:23 – Do you do duplexes or barndominiums? 57:40 – What options do you have for age-in-place needs or disability accommodations? 58:32 – Can I purchase my refrigerator, washer and dryer along with the other appliances? 1:00:06 – Can we supply appliances, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, etc.? If we supply, would Mitchell Homes install? 1:05:20 – Are you able to work with HOAs & HOA requirements? Is it going to cost me more to build HOA compliant? 1:09:40 – What is the build process? How long does it take to build? 1:11:15 – Reference: Homebuyer Roadmap to Success episode 1:11:29 – Where do buyers usually get surprised in the build process? What part of building on your own land do people underestimate the most? 1:15:33 – What am I responsible for in the process? Can you guys just handle everything? 1:17:14 – Can me/my friend/family member do some of the work? (Finishing/cabinets/flooring) 1:18:32 – Apply For Trade or Vendor Partner 1:19:15 – Can we make a change after our plans and colors meeting? What is the late change process? 1:22:15 – What additional fees are going to pop up in the build process? 1:27:34 – When will I get final numbers on the cost for everything? 1:29:37 – If my appraisal comes back short, what are my options? 1:31:16 – Do you have financing options? 1:31:35 – Reference: Mortgage 101 episode 1:32:06 – What does my credit score have to be at? 1:33:17 – Do you have a discount for veterans? 1:33:51 – If I am buying land, do I still get Simply Mitchell benefits? 1:34:00 – Reference: Mortgage 101 episode 1:35:53 – Why is your quote to add a basement higher than the other builder I talked to? 1:41:24 – Do you have model homes we can go tour?   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/   Get fast answers to your questions: Email: info@mitchellhomesinc.com Call/Text: (804) 538-3912

    1h 44m

  2. APR 1

    Pre-Settlement Orientation & Warranty

    You've closed. You've moved in. Now what? Most homeowners have no idea what matters in the first year - what to watch, what's covered, and what could cost them down the road. In our latest episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott, Deven, and special guest, Tontanisha, our Warranty Claims & Construction Coordinator walk you how protect your investment and keep your home in top shape. We cover: - Resources included in your welcome home folder - Your pre-settlement orientation - How to submit requests the right way - The timing that matters most - Real maintenance tips   Tune in, take notes, and stay prepared. This isn't just about building a house - it's about building your legacy with confidence from the beginning. Watch the new episode, available now.   Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 01:05 – Bedrock Beliefs: Integrity & Loyalty 07:43 – Introducing special guest, Tontanisha Hines, Warranty Claims & Construction Coordinator 09:02 – Today’s topic overview: What to expect during your Pre-Settlement Orientation (POS) and what's included Warranty with every new Mitchell Home built on your land 16:33 – Timeline of generating and correcting punch list items after your closing day 22:55 – How our warranty process works - partnership with Quality Builders Warranty and what’s included in your Welcome Home folder 25:13 – How your warranty is registered, how to submit requests correctly, and turnaround time 33:30 – What are homeowners submitting at their 90-day vs. 11-month vs. What’s considered emergency repair requests? 43:18 – Episode is sponsored by CrossCountry Mortgage, our exclusive lending partner 42:51 – Water filtration systems process and maintenance tips throughout home 55:17 – Our recommendations on timing your list submission about 10 months into being settled in your home so you don’t fall behind on the 12-month 1:00:27 – We build homes that last, with the idea that you’re going to help maintain it with us, so it does last 1:06:20 – National homebuilder association residential performance guidelines  1:09:14 – 1-year workmanship, 2-year limited systems, 10-year structural 1:15:30 – Deven speaks on the most common structural claim he’s seen over 30 years in the industry  1:16:50 – Difference between exterior and interior drains 1:21:25 – Protection and support from your builder partner, Mitchell Homes - Geo tech reports, over excavation, and more 1:24:08 – Your provided support & resources 1:26:00 – Like, subscribe, comment and email us at info@mitchellhomesinc.com if you want a Mitchell Homies T-shirt! Thanks for joining - see you next time.   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/   Get Fast Answers to Your Questions Email us: info@mitchellhomesinc.com  Call/Text us: (804) 538-3912

    1h 26m

  3. MAR 1

    Pre-Con, Pre-Drywall & Pivot

    Building on your land is a big deal. And we want you to know, you're not doing it alone. Our newest Behind the Build Podcast episode, Pre-Con, Pre-Drywall & Pivot, is in loving memory of Jerry Thomas and rooted in something we believe in deeply: Proactive Partnership Together.   We've seen the pitfalls and learned the lessons. That's exactly why we created this podcast because we care about your experience. We want it to be enjoyable, clear, and confidence.   In this episode, we walk you through:   What happens before you break ground  Why your pre-con meeting matters  How to avoid delays  What late changes really mean for time & money  What to expect from us and how stay ahead internally every week   We're working towards the same destination and when you watch and listen, you become the expert on your own new home build.   Tune in. Take notes. Let's build your legacy, together.   Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Behind the Build Podcast with Scott & Deven 03:11 –Wilmington Design Studio opening soon 04:40 – Bedrock Beliefs: Clarity & Humility 09:18 – Today’s topic overview 12:42 – Pre-construction meeting timing 14:51 – Internal prep for your pre-con meeting 18:15 – What happens during the pre-con meeting 22:07 – MH customization vs other builders 30:00 – Addendums: what to expect 36:33 – Included appliances & features 47:00 – Customer responsibilities 50:10 – Setting up propane & avoiding delays 55:35 – Cost Breakdown Worksheet overview 58:20 – Construction supervisor & app expectations 1:01:21 – Projected closing + walkthroughs 1:14:23 – Late changes: timing & cost impact 1:25:48 – Building a proactive partnership with you 1:28:55 – In loving memory of Jerry Thomas   Website: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mitchellhomes Podcast: https://mitchellhomesinc.com/behind-the-build-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitchellHomesInc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellhomes/ X: https://x.com/_mitchellhomes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitchell-homes/   Get Fast Answers to Your Questions Email us: info@mitchellhomesinc.com  Call/Text us: (804) 538-3912

    1h 32m

  4. JAN 11

    Inside the Mitchell Magic

    Behind every home are people guiding the process, shaping the experience, and showing up long before the foundation is poured. In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven introduce four of those people—our in-house team members who walk alongside future homeowners every day. As the conversation unfolds, a shared belief becomes clear: building isn't just about the house itself. It's about making families feel confident, comfortable, and supported from day one.  These are the voices you'll hear first when you reach out. The people helping you design your home around your land, your lifestyle, and your future. The team making sure nothing feels confusing or out of reach—while keeping the process moving forward. And when you're ready to take the next step, knowing who's behind you makes all the difference. We invite you to listen in, get to know more of our team, and see why so many homeowners say the experience simply feels different.   Meet them now in the newest episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Inside the Mitchell Magic...

    1h 7m

  5. 12/14/2025

    Homebuyer Roadmap to Success

    During the holiday season, it's nice to pause, dream a little, and imagine the next chapter of your family's story. What makes a house, a home? Some might say it's the laugher around the table, the quiet mornings with a cup of coffee, or the memories made with those you love. We agree, but a true home is also a reflection of your life, your story, and the land it stands on. At Mitchell Homes, we bring that vision to life. We study your property, understand your daily rhythms, and help you design a home that fits your lifestyle perfectly. "Standard" doesn't exist in our vocabulary because every detail is tailored to you and your land, from footprint to the finishing touches.   In this new episode of Behind the Build Podcast, Scott & Deven reveal our Homebuyer Roadmap to Success: a step-by-step checklist that keeps your new home build flowing smoothly from contract to keys -- giving you clarity, confidence, and control.   PS - We've got a few surprises for you in this episode...   Take a moment for yourself this season. Your dream home is closer than you think with Mitchell Homes by your side...

    1h 18m

  6. 10/23/2025

    Mortgage 101

    New Behind the Build Podcast Episode is Live! Featuring Special Guest: Chris Cleveland with CrossCountry Mortgage In this episode, Scott and Deven sit down with seasoned lender partner Chris Cleveland, who brings over 15 years of mortgage industry experience to the table. Whether you’re buying your first home or just want to better understand the lending process, this episode is packed with practical insights and tips. Here’s what we’ll cover:    Start-to-Finish Process Learn what it looks like when you team up with our homebuilding experts and a trusted lending partner. You’ll have support from both sides and the tools to ask the right questions from day one.    Mortgage Lending Expectations What level of service should you expect from a lender? Chris shares what really matters when choosing the right partner.    Pre-Qualification Tips Why getting pre-qualified early can set you up for success and help you make smarter decisions to protect your home investment.    Key Financial Terms Explained: Credit Scores: Why they matter and how they affect your loan options. Loan Types: Conventional, FHA, VA, and more — what’s the right fit for you? Titles & Appraisals: What they are and why they’re critical to the process. Closing Costs: What are they, who pays them, and how can you prepare?    Don’t miss this inside look at the lending side of the build on your land home journey.

    1h 47m

  7. 09/01/2025

    Freestyle FAQ

    Description: This isn’t just another episode—it’s the one you helped create. You sent in your questions—and now, Scott & Deven are answering them all in this special episode of Behind the Build. Whether you’re just getting started or deep into planning, this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with confidence. Here’s a sneak peek at what we cover: -Tips on finding land (and what to watch for) -New elevations and fresh design options coming soon -Custom build timelines—what to expect -The rise of duplexes and what to consider -How demolition works -ADA compliant design made simple -What’s going on with rates and demand right now -New Raleigh Design Studio is open and breaking ground on our Wilmington Design Studio -Southwest Virginia expansion coming soon Every great build starts with the right questions. And now, you’ve got the answers—tune in and take the next step toward the home you’ve been dreaming about.

    52 min

  8. 08/03/2025

    Well & Septic

    What should every landowner know about well & septic? Find out on the latest episode of Behind the Build Podcast with your hosts, Scott & Deven at Mitchell Homes.   We sat down with two of our top experts—Deborah, our Pre-Construction Manager, and Jevon from RVA Site Services—to break down everything you need to know about well & septic planning:    Why using trusted contractors helps avoid delays and surprise costs   How our well & septic allowance supports a flexible budget   Maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly for decades   We're here to help you plan smart, avoid common pitfalls, and feel confident as you move forward with your home build!

    1h 32m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Welcome to Behind the Build, the podcast where Scott Sleeme, President, and Deven Sellers, Executive VP of Mitchell Homes, dive into the essential topics you need to know when building a new home on your land. Join Scott and Deven for informal, insightful discussions that cover everything from the initial planning stages to the final touches of your dream home. Whether you’re a first-time builder or looking to upgrade your current home, Behind the Build offers valuable advice, expert tips, and real-life stories to help you navigate the complexities of home construction. Subscribe to our channel to stay informed, inspired, and ready to tackle your new home building journey with confidence!

Information

  • Creator
    Mitchell Homes
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Behind The Build Podcast