September in Minnesota is one of our favorite times of year. The days are still warm, the evenings are getting cooler, and the first hints of fall are starting to show. From football and bonfires to apple orchards and weekends spent outdoors, there’s a lot to enjoy before winter makes its inevitable return!
Fall is also a great time to turn your attention back to your home. As we start spending more time indoors, it’s often easier to notice the spaces that could function better for everyday life. Maybe it’s a kitchen that needs a better layout, a basement that could become valuable living space, or an addition that would finally give your family the room it needs. If a remodel is on your wish list for 2027, now is a great time to start the conversation. Good planning, thoughtful design, and making selections early can help set the stage for a smoother project.
In this issue, we’re sharing the Top 5 features homeowners wish they had included in their build or remodel, a look inside one of our recently completed projects, and why investing in quality construction pays off in the long run. We hope you enjoy this edition—and find some time to soak up all the things that make September in Minnesota so good.
Happy fall!
~Mike, Mark & the entire Laurel Builders Team
Top 5 Features Homeowners Regret Not Adding During Construction
When building or remodeling a home, it’s natural to focus on staying within budget and deciding where your dollars will have the biggest impact. But some upgrades are much easier—and often less expensive—to incorporate while the walls are open and construction is already underway. A little extra investment now can add convenience, functionality and long-term value to your home.
Here are the Top 5 features homeowners often wish they would have added during construction>>
Project Inspiration: Adding Space without an Addition
What was once an unfinished basement used primarily for storage is now a warm and welcoming extension of the home. The finished space features a cozy family room with a fireplace and TV, a bar area, plus an additional bedroom and bathroom. By making better use of the space already within the home, this family gained an entire new level of living—without adding a single square foot to the home’s footprint.
Check out the before & after below! See the full photo gallery of this Prior Lake Basement Finish here>>
How Quality Construction Can Save Money in the Long Run
When planning a home improvement project, it’s natural to focus on the upfront cost. Homeowners often compare estimates and look for ways to stay within budget, but the lowest price doesn’t always provide the best value. In many cases, investing in quality craftsmanship from the beginning can save thousands of dollars over the life of your home.
At Laurel Builders, we believe quality craftsmanship is about more than how a project looks on the day it’s finished—it’s about how well it performs for years to come. Our approach is simple: provide long-lasting, top-quality work while making the remodeling and building experience as straightforward as possible. We pair skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail with truly personal customer service, building homes—and relationships—that stand the test of time.
While choosing quality materials and experienced professionals may sometimes cost more upfront, those decisions can often save homeowners money in the long run. Fewer repairs, less maintenance, better performance, and work that doesn’t need to be redone all add lasting value to your investment. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why investing in quality from the start can be one of the smartest decisions you make for your home.
The Difference Between Cost & Value
A lower bid may seem attractive initially, but shortcuts in materials, preparation, or installation can lead to costly repairs and replacements later. Quality craftsmanship isn’t just about appearance—it’s about building things correctly the first time.
Experienced craftsmen understand how materials perform over time, how structures interact with one another, and how to anticipate problems before they occur. Their attention to detail helps ensure that projects last longer, function better, and require less maintenance.
Fewer Repairs & Callbacks
One of the biggest advantages of quality workmanship is durability. Whether it’s a custom staircase, cabinetry, deck, flooring installation, or a remodeling project, properly executed work is less likely to develop issues such as squeaks, cracks, shifting, water intrusion, or premature wear.
When a project is completed correctly from the start, homeowners spend less time and money dealing with repairs, warranty claims, and contractor callbacks.
Better Materials, Better Results
Quality craftsmen often recommend materials based on performance rather than simply choosing the cheapest option available. While premium materials may cost more upfront, they frequently offer longer lifespans, greater durability, and lower maintenance requirements.
For example, investing in high-quality trim, flooring, fasteners, finishes, or hardware can prevent deterioration and replacement costs years down the road. The result is a home that continues to look and perform well long after the project is completed.
Increased Home Value
Well-executed craftsmanship adds lasting value to a property. Prospective buyers notice details such as custom woodwork, seamless finishes, solid construction, and thoughtful design. These features can help a home stand out in the market and may contribute to higher resale value.
Poor workmanship, on the other hand, often becomes apparent during inspections and can lead to costly negotiations or repairs before a sale.
Energy Efficiency and Performance
Quality construction can also reduce ongoing expenses through improved efficiency. Proper insulation, precise installation, weatherproofing, and attention to detail help reduce energy loss and improve overall home performance.
These improvements can lead to lower utility bills while increasing comfort throughout the year.
Peace of Mind is Valuable
Beyond the financial savings, quality craftsmanship provides confidence. Homeowners can enjoy their investment knowing that the work was completed with care, precision, and pride. Instead of worrying about future problems, they can focus on enjoying their home.
A Smart Investment
Home improvement projects should be viewed as long-term investments rather than short-term expenses. While quality craftsmanship may require a larger initial investment, it often pays for itself through reduced maintenance, fewer repairs, longer-lasting materials, improved efficiency, and increased property value.
In the end, the true cost of a project isn’t what you pay today—it’s what you spend over the life of the improvement. Choosing quality craftsmanship is one of the smartest ways to protect your investment and save money.
In Our Next Issue...
Our next quarterly newsletter will include the Most Requested Kitchen Upgrades along with more design features and photos from our most recent projects.
