Lead Source - We visited the model home in Compass Pointe.
Salesperson Accessibility - Cameron was amazing and patient with us. Very attentive as well; we texted him at all hours with questions and he responded right away.
Sales Attentiveness - Absolutely, every question we had he found out the response if he wasn’t sure on a question.
Sales Knowledge - If he wasn’t knowledgeable on a question he researched and contacted who or where to find out the answer.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - I’m most excited about having the messy kitchen (butlers pantry) and loggia. My husband is excited about the oversized garage.
Recognized Excellence - So far everyone we have worked with at Kent has been exceptional namely Cameron Yurick and Alina Aviles.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The selection process was very thorough and Alina is very good a her job.
Very happy with the professionalism of all staff encountered.
Lead Source - Looking for approved builders in the Leland area
Recognized Excellence - Kate DaSilva
Areas For Improvement - Getting the developer to approve angled garage
Areas Of Satisfaction - Kate has been patient with us as we purchased the lot and then responding to requests as we got closer as we sell out home in VA.
Communication - He has taken the time to even respond to our questions after hours and on weekends.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Construction process is proceeding in a timely fashion.
Recognized Excellence - Kate and Landon Choplin for working to resolve issues in a favorable manner for the customer
Additional Comments - I believe that site prep and landscaping estimates should be increased in the Bluffs community to be more reflective of the likely costs. I also think customers should be allowed to make up to 5 changes without being charged a CWA fee. Paying for the cost of labor and/or materials is understood, but homeowners may find it difficult to not have a change after seeing the build in progress. (i.e., electrical socket location, plumbing fixture, etc.)
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - My pantry and master bathroom
Recognized Excellence - Amy Barnes
Areas Of Satisfaction - Everyone was very professional and always available. I felt like family when I was there.
Recognized Excellence - Chris Moore is an excellent project manager. He keeps us well informed every step of the way and address addresses any issues or concerns we have. He is very professional and organized.
Areas For Improvement - I thought the selection process was too rushed. The girls in charge of selection did not have enough experience to help guide me correctly. I am sorry with some of the choices I made and feel I could’ve done better if I was in more capable hands and had more time. Although, they were very nice and wanted to help.
Lead Source - Through RetireNC.com and 55Places.com
Salesperson Accessibility - Sarah is right on the ball answering our questions and checking in with us during Selections.
Salesperson Communication - Sarah communicated with us frequently making our experience outstanding.
Sales Attentiveness - She is very attentive and responds promptly.
Sales Knowledge - Sarah is right on the money.
Salesperson Professionalism - All the time that we needed her to be.
Sales Solutions - Yes. Never failed us.
Sales Problem Resolution - She applies superb professionalism when concerns arise and provides a great solution.
Options - There are more options available at Kent Homes than with builders we dealt with in the past.
Customer Suggestion - Not at this time. The experience has been great so far.
Recognized Excellence - Sarah Mebane, Katie D, and Ella S.
Areas For Improvement - Not applicable at this time
Areas Of Satisfaction - All of them so far.
The build process has been efficient and straight forward. In general, excellent communication from concept, contract preparation, design/selection through the build process.
Lead Source - I heard about your company from a list of builders from the Bluff's. You were approved as a builder in this community.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - I am most excited about the kosher room.
Recognized Excellence - I would like to recognize Ella Richardson, in the design center, and Kate.
Areas Of Satisfaction - I think the building process and schedule seems to be very detailed. I am expecting them to be able to build within the agreed upon timeframe. Relative to other builders, we have had experience with and researched. That was before we decided to go with you.
Design Consultant Knowledge - Absolutely, the design consultant was knowledgeable.
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - I am excited about the butlers' pantry.
Recognized Excellence - I would like to recognize Ella.
Customer Suggestion - We have some wasted space on the island. The cabinet supplier didn't provide a cabinet of particular size that would fit. I did find other suppliers that had those in stock. The one that you use didn't stock that same feature. The supplier for the shelves that went into the master bedroom, they had a slow turnaround. I am thinking about a two-week delay in getting through the plans for the design. We had some changes to the shelves.
Areas Of Satisfaction - I was most satisfied that their design studio had everything available to go through in the selection process. That was a lot more straight forward than other builders we were looking at and had heard about
Areas For Improvement - They didn't fall short in any area.
Construction Quality - Overall, I am satisfied with the materials and workmanship. Craft workers, in general, keep the work site clean and neat. On occasion, bottles, tools, rags, etc. were found in the rafters, framing and around the lot.
Communication - Excellent communication from Landon. On several occasions, he texted questions during the build process to clarify items to ensure they were done in accordance with our intentions (e.g., location of outlets, wire runs, etc.). Bi-weekly meetings were effective in understanding what was completed and what was coming up in the next couple of weeks. He responds timely to texts and questions.
PM Expertise - Landon has a clear understanding and expertise in the build process and construction methods. It is clear that his prior experience and training has prepared him well for his position. He has coordinated sub-contractors, material deliveries and orders extremely well, resulting in little down time between build phases.
PM Professionalism - Landon has been courteous and professional throughout the build process. He puts the customer first and ensures that they are satisfied with the project.
PM Problem Resolution - During the build process there were a couple of issues that needed resolution (e.g., missing outlet in the study, missing exterior gas stub). They were corrected timely without issue.
PM Professional & Organized - Landon is well organized and professional. Timing and coordination of the subs have been exemplary.
Understand Building Process - Landon understands the build process very well and has provided excellent recommendations regarding landscaping, internet wiring and interior finishing (e.g., shelving, window treatments, etc.). He often refers back to the design drawings and selection addendum to ensure the house is build to the required specifications.
Clean & Safe - On several occasions Landon took action to ensure the job site was clean and safe. Examples include removing bottles, rags etc. that were left by subs, repositioning lumber with nails exposed to avoid someone stepping on them, eliminating trip hazard, etc.
Employees & Trade Contractors - Trade contractors are professional and courteous. In some instances, better reference to design drawings could be beneficial in preventing rework. A floor outlet in the middle of the study was missed and the concrete pad needed to be cut to install it. On another occasion the exterior gas stub out was missed and needed to be corrected after drywall installation.
Overall Experience - To date the experience has been exemplary. Build time line has been on track (or ahead of schedule). Communication has been timely and accurate. Quality of workmanship has been excellent.
Areas Of Satisfaction - I am quite impressed with the coordination and timeliness of the build process without any sacrifice in quality and craftsmanship.
Recognized Excellence - I would like to thank and recognize several individuals. First is Kate DaSilva. She has been a pleasure to work with throughout the process. Kate was the first Kent representative that we met. She was extraordinarily easy to talk to and offered several recommendations and options that we would not have thought of on our own. She is one of the key factors in our decision to choose Kent. Additionally we would like to recognize, Ella Stikeleather. She has been fantastic. Her recommendations made during the Selections process were spot on. With the exterior painting complete, we have received several compliments on the color selections. We credit Ella with helping us make those decisions and eagerly await the completion of the interior painting in the next couple of weeks. Lastly, we would like to recognize Landon Choplin. He is turning our dreams on paper into a reality.
Areas For Improvement - The area where some improvement is needed is in the custom features (e.g., extra outlets, gas stub out additions, etc.) that are not in the standard design. I assume that prior to each phase (e.g., prior to electrical work beginning), a meeting is held with the sub-contractor (i.e., electrician). During this pre-job, improved focus on referencing drawings, additions made by the owner, lessons learned from previous builds, etc. may help in reducing rework.
Lead Source - I heard about Kent Homes as I looked at homes in the Bluff area and heard they were good builders.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - I am most excited about my three-car garage. If you asked my wife she would say differently.
Recognized Excellence - Cameron did a very good job and the ones who worked in the bluff were very helpful as well.
Areas Of Satisfaction - They met my expectations in the selection process as it was through and helpful.
While we are still in the construction process, communication and workmanship has been top notch. Looking forward to the completion of our beautiful Kent Homes house. Special “kudos” to our Project Manager, Kenny Jones for making this home building process smooth and in fact, enjoyable.
Lead Source - I found a home on the internet that was being built in the neighborhood I wanted to live in. That home was being built by Kent Homes. I had search new home listing for zip code 28422
Salesperson Accessibility - We dealt with Carol Autry. Our process was probably shorter than usual since the house was a spec house.
Options - We were glad we were able to make some minor changes. The house had everything thing picked out and we like all the fixtures appliances etc that was going into the house.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - I love the whole floor plan. I think my husband loves the garage size.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Organization and communications
Overall Experience - Customer Service, Project Manger Communication, Follow-up
Areas Of Satisfaction - Quality of Project and professionalism
Recognized Excellence - Our project manager, Kenny Jones has kept us in the loop as the house progresses and responds to all of our questions or concerns in an extremely timely manner.
Areas For Improvement - None come to mind. Kent has delivered on what they have said they were going do.
Lead Source - I met their sales team at a coastal showcase in Brunswick Forest.
Recognized Excellence - I would like to recognize Randy Parrish and Dade Dutton for their exceptional service.
Any Changes? - If I could change anything, I would change the lot I choose to build on.
Favorite Home Feature - The open layout is the feature I like the most.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - Laundry near Master Bedroom
Recognized Excellence - Tim Burleson. We had some minor issues with the plans We were told some things could be chosen at selections but that was incorrect. He came by and made it right for us
Areas For Improvement - Options at selections. I understand their thought process on limiting selections but for experienced home owners it was disappointing
Areas Of Satisfaction - The floor plans and the layout of the house. Lovely details on the ceilings
Areas For Improvement - The options selections and prices
Construction Quality - From what we have seen so far it appears good. However selections for cabinets flooring etc were very limited for the price of the house
Communication - He is a great project manager. Very honest and keeps things mocing
PM Expertise - Absolutely
PM Professionalism - Very diligent. Especially with the inspections
PM Problem Resolution - There have been a few glitches with the build and he always lets us know what happened and how it would be resolved
PM Professional & Organized - Always keeps to our meeting schedule
Understand Building Process - Always answers my numerous questions about this
Trust - Absolutely
Clean & Safe - From what we have seen yes
Employees & Trade Contractors - We have only met the landscaper Ryan and he was fantastic. Very knowledgeable
Areas Of Satisfaction - The biweekly meetings with AJ are always good
Clean & Safe - AJ exceeded all expectations as a project manager. We were very fortunate to have him
Quality Of Workmanship - For the most part good. However the quality of the gel stain on the front door is sub par. Would not suggest that anyone goes with this option
Quality Of Materials - For the most part good. Except for the limited selections. Buyers should spend time looking at the models and asking for possible homes to look at if there is no model
PM Professional & Organized - Everyone we dealt with at Kent was quite organizes
Communication - We had biweekly meetings which were great since we were building remotely. When there were issues AJ promptly notified us to tell us how he already fixed it or how it was going to be rememdied
PM Professionalism - We learned a lot about the build process from him
PM Expertise - Again we learned a lot
PM Problem Resolution - Addressed this above but he was superb
Trust - Absolutely
Employees & Trade Contractors - Want to call out the landscape designer. He was fantastic. And who ever installed the granite. The best seaming of granite that we have ever seen
Schedule - On time!!!!!
Condition of Home - There were still punch list items from the initial walk through. But they have dealt with a lot of them
Areas Of Satisfaction - Organization and timeliness. Beautiful floor plans
Areas For Improvement - Gel staining on the front door should be dropped as an option. It is impossible to get an even stain when it is done on an installed door. Kent needs to address this
Recognized Excellence - AJ Paladino as our PM. Kayla Paladino as our sales agent. Alina Aviles as our selections coordinator. Both Tim Burleson and Ashley Kent VP and President for dealing with our concerns along the way and truly standing by their product. They have assembled an exemplary team!!!
Additional Comments - We are thrilled with our new home. Especially the screened loggia. So glad we chose Kent Homes at Compass Pointe!!!!
Any Changes? - The tile work was subpar and the quality and installation of the front door.
Favorite Home Feature - Outdoor space.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Construction project management and overall floor plan/flow of the home space.
Areas For Improvement - Tile work and overall options during selections, which lacked color design appeal.
We have already recommended Kent Homes to many friends!
Lead Source - Community representative
Salesperson Accessibility - Kate has been amazing to work with!!
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - Fireplace option on screened porch
Design Consultant Communication - Amy was sooooo helpful!
Design Consultant Problem Resolution - Amy offered great alternatives to any issues we had
Selections Budget - Amy gave us great suggestions when I was thinking too extreme! My husband was very appreciative!
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - My kitchen & dining room!!!
Recognized Excellence - Amy Barnes made our selections appt fun, helpful & EASY!!! I have no second guesses in any of our original choices bc Amy advised me through the entire process.
Customer Suggestion - Give Amy a raise!! She’s amazing!
Areas Of Satisfaction - We have been completely pleased with every step of our process so far! Kate DaSilva has been amazing to work with!! She handed us off to Amy for selections & we are so pleased with the entire process so far.
Areas For Improvement - I would suggest improving the lighting selections and the levels a bit. Maybe I’m just really picky, but having to go up to level 8 for nice, current lighting options was a bit daunting.
Clean & Safe - Site was always clean
Communication - Chris always answered our calls/texts promptly…informed us of happenings in a timely manner.
PM Professionalism - Chris knows his stuff!
PM Expertise - Always trusted Chris had the know-how to handle our build!
PM Problem Resolution - We had a few issues pop up, and Chris handled each of them timely, professionally & in a way that kept our stress to a minimum.
Trust - 100% trust Chris to handle any issue…he never left us hanging.
Schedule - We were right on schedule!
Areas Of Satisfaction - Kent Homes delivered our home to us on time & without any major issues/concerns.
Areas For Improvement - We are very happy with our Kent Homes Shelter Bay. Our selection’s appointment with Amy was an easy experience, until we saw the pricing of some of the upgrades we chose. Basic/included features and allowed amounts just aren’t adequate for the average “custom home” buyer. Examples, bathroom fixtures & lighting options…to choose fixtures to our liking/design style added a substantial amount to our bottom line. Landscaping allowance for our community is not in line with the mandatory requirements of our POA. We understand the building process, and economics of building, and overall we are very pleased with our new home. ZERO REGRETS about choosing Kent Homes as our builder.
Recognized Excellence - Every person we worked with during our building experience was professional, fun, knowledgeable and experienced. Kate DaSilva was amazing & so helpful!! Amy McKay was great in assisting with our selection process, and then as Kate’s step-in when Kate went on maternity leave. Chris Moore was the perfect addition to complete our building team. Chris always had our back in the process!
Warranty Satisfaction - Very pleased with the way our concerns were addressed…still working to resolve drainage issues with our lot BUT Chris Moore is a great guy to work with & we trust him to assist us.
Employees & Subcontractors - Very happy with the team at Regional HVAC…they worked with us to ensure our needs were addressed & remedied the situation perfectly.
Recognized Excellence - Chris Moore…he is always there to answer/address questions and/or concerns as they arise. It’s great to know he didn’t disappear once our home was completed.
Any Changes? - Would have made our patio and laundry room larger. We love our Shelter Bay!
Favorite Home Feature - So many, but I think our favorite feature is our fireplace on our screened porch. We enjoy morning coffee on cool mornings & college football on Saturdays & it will be a perfect overflow space for our holiday party coming up!
Areas Of Satisfaction - Our home is super energy efficient!
Areas For Improvement - Landscaping allowance was ridiculously low for the requirements of our community. Lot prep (grading, proper drainage) needs to be more of a priority instead of an afterthought. Have incurred great expense & worth trying to get this situation under control.
Construction Quality - Everything is uniform, right angles spacing
Communication - Able to talk /text with Archie. This is important to us because we don’t live close enough to see the progress.
PM Professionalism - Very knowledgeable of progress and is able to keep us informed
PM Problem Resolution - Yes, he has.
Understand Building Process - Yes every 2 week calls are great.
Trust - Yes, within a couple days the issues are resolved
Overall Experience - Yes, I will always recommend Kent Homes.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The responsiveness of all departments when we had a question. Making us important. Other builders blow us off when starting this journey of building our retirement home.
Recognized Excellence - Archie, Carrol and Alina.
Quality Of Workmanship - We are extremely happy how our home turned out.
PM Professional & Organized - Archie was there every time we had a question. He took great care of us during the complete process.
Communication - We always had our biweekly meetings and toward the end of the build Archie was fixable to meet as needed.
PM Problem Resolution - Archie resolved all our issues
Trust - I have complete trust in Archie to take care of our build of our home.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Build, material. Plan. Being by our sides the whole way through the process.
Recognized Excellence - Archie Medina, Jim Talbot, Carrol Hobbs, Alina Aviles
Additional Comments - Kent Homes were very responsive to our initial inquires on building a home in St James. I would recommend only using Kent Homes.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Build organization and communication
Recognized Excellence - Dade Dutton
Areas For Improvement - None
Lead Source - Kent is a builder in the Bluffs where we own land.
Salesperson Accessibility - Kate is amazing, always available to answer an email or jump on a phone call.
Salesperson Communication - Through the entire process Kate has been attentive, helpful and answered all of my millions of questions.
Sales Solutions - Kate was very helpful with ideas for our extended garage and home placement on the property.
Preconstruction Budget - Kate would double check with appropriate parties to verify the price of an option.
Options - Not completed yet, but looking forward to the process.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - Outdoor living space.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Customer service/Kate have been wonderful. Everyone at Kent (so far) has reached out every step of the way to help calm my fears and apprehensions.
Design Consultant Communication - Alina was AMAZING. She is extremely knowledge and patient.
Professional & Organized - I was very anxious about the selections process, but Alina was patient and made the whole process less stressful.
Design Consultant Attentiveness - Great attention to detail. Offered suggestions when asked.
Design Consultant Problem Resolution - Kept us informed of all possible changes, so far. Offered suggestions and listened to our ideas.
Design Consultant Accessibility - Very responsive.
Selections Budget - We stayed within our planned budget.
Options - Sooooo many options!
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - The tile in the master bathroom. Able to enlarge the kitchen island.
Recognized Excellence - Kate DaSilva and Alina have been wonderful. Two very kind and patient ladies.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Our home is very functional ,efficient ,smart ,everything works as should! thank you for your hard work !
Areas For Improvement - We wish we had compaction on our footing. It would’ve eliminate some cracks in the foundation.
Recognized Excellence - Everyone that we work with did a great job, great team👏 Thank you.
Use Comments - Thank you
Additional Comments - It’s a beautiful house, we are very happy !Thank you.
Warranty Manager Professionalism - Yes, Mike rolled up his sleeves got under the sink and fix it currently Water leak thanks, Mike
Warranty Problem Resolution - Yes
Recognized Excellence - Yes, Carol Hobbs Kenny Jones, Amy Barnes thank you for all your hard work 😓💪💪💯
Any Changes? - Remove the garage from the front of the house
Favorite Home Feature - Very functional
Areas Of Satisfaction - Main leaving area
Areas For Improvement - Main leaving area not enough daylight
Overall Experience - Landon is doing an excellent job for us.
Recognized Excellence - Landon Choplin
Areas Of Satisfaction - Overall excellent.
Areas For Improvement - None.
Recognized Excellence - Landon Choplin and Alina Aviles.
Lead Source - Through Compass Pointe
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - Master suite connection to the laundry room. Size of the loggia.
Customer Suggestion - None at this time.
Recognized Excellence - So far I would recognize Kayla for her attentiveness and her professionalism.
Areas For Improvement - None at this time.
Areas Of Satisfaction - So far the process from our initial meeting through getting ready for our selections meeting. We were also impressed by the quality of the model homes we visited.
Additional Comments - We are looking forward to our selections meetings and continuing the process of working with Kent Homes in building our new home in Compass Pointe.
Design Consultant Communication - Amy Barnes has been an excellent communicator throughout the entire design process.
Professional & Organized - Amy has been great to work with. She provided excellent advice and recommended appropriate solutions for our needs.
Design Consultant Knowledge - Amy is extremely knowledgeable about design solutions.
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - The expansion of the kitchen island and the finishes in the loggia.
Recognized Excellence - Tim Burleson. We had a very stressful challenge with the exit from the loggia to the patio. Tim not only responded to our email, he took the time to have a phone conversation to explain why the door needed to open out. He understood what our concerns were and offered up several different alternatives, of which we were able to get exactly what we wanted.
Customer Suggestion - Ensure that the drawings on the sales documents are correct e.g. loggia doors should show opening out not in. Keep the sales team informed of changes to materials being used in new construction e.g. the switch from Luxury Vinyl Plank to Laminate flooring.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The ability to do some customization to the house e.g. changing the garage orientation to front load and flipping the floor plan.
Areas For Improvement - None at this time.
Additional Comments - Thus far the Kent team has been very professional throughout the process of selecting the model and designing our new home.
Areas Of Satisfaction - They met my expectations in the design selection process and project management process. AJ has been exceptional.
Areas For Improvement - They fell short of my expectations with the floor plan layout.
Recognized Excellence - I would like to recognize Tim and AJ Paladino. They have both been great.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The overall process has met my expectations. They have done what they said they were going to do.
PM Professional & Organized - AJ was very well organized and all of our interactions were conducted in a very professional manner.
Communication - AJ was an excellent communicator throughout the process. This was especially helpful since we were located in New Jersey.
PM Professionalism - As noted before AJ was very professional. He was also very knowledgeable about the process.
PM Expertise - I can’t say enough about how good AJ was throughout the process.
PM Problem Resolution - AJ resolved every issue that arose to our satisfaction.
Trust - AJ proved to extremely trustworthy throughout our entire relationship.
Employees & Trade Contractors - I can’t speak to the Trade. However, all of our interactions with the Kent team were professional and courteous.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Communication, professional management of the job, quality of products offered at selections, and collaboration to solve challenges.
Areas For Improvement - Cleaning the house to be move in ready. The landscaping company did not communicate well and were not very responsive to issues.
Recognized Excellence - Firstly, AJ Paladino, I cannot express the gratitude that we have for what he did for us during this entire process. Also Tim Burleson, who was very helpful early on in the process. He provided us with great solutions to a couple design concerns, I.e. our back patio and drop zone.
Warranty Manager Professionalism - John was very knowledgeable. He left the company and Mike Burch didn't miss a step. He was knowledgeable and excellent to work with!
Warranty Communication - Mike always let me know the status of the various resolutions during the process.
Warranty Problem Resolution - We were pleasantly surprised at how smoothly the process has gone. Mike made sure everything he was responsible for was resolved to our satisfaction.
Warranty Administrator Communication - Nancy has been excellent with communicating. She always responds quickly to any of our emails.
Warranty Administrator Professionalism - Nancy has been very professional throughout the entire warranty process. She was also extremely helpful in dealing with the Landscape issues we have run into throughout the year.
Warranty Work - Both John and Mike were very hands-on in helping getting any of the issues resolved. One example was Mike getting a wrench from his truck to resolve the leaking water on 2 of the hose bibs after the 1 year walkthrough.
Warranty Trust - I was amazed at how Nancy & Mike were able to get almost all of the contractors to show up on the same day to take care of the warranty work.
Employees & Subcontractors - All of the employees that we dealt with at Kent Homes were extremely professional and courteous. The same for the subcontractors. The only issue has been with Wrightsville Beach Landscaping.
Recognized Excellence - Everyone we dealt with throughout the process was extremely professional. As for exceptional service, I would say that our Project Manager AJ Paladino was top of the list. He was tremendous to deal with, especially since we were in New Jersey during the construction. We were also impressed that Tim Burleson took the time very early in the process to develop some options to resolve our concern with our patio needing a landing and some steps to exit the loggia. Tim took the time to have a call with us and provide options to eliminate the landing!
Any Changes? - We would eliminate the side widow in the front bedroom.
Favorite Home Feature - We love the 4 season loggia as well as the Master bedroom suite with access to the laundry room.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The ability to make changes to the base layout as well as the many elevations to choose from.
Areas For Improvement - We would have wanted a better Landscape Company. Wrightsville Beach Landscaping has been difficult to deal with. This is an area where I believe Nancy really helped get things moving during the warranty process.
Additional Comments - Overall we have been pleased with Kent Homes throughout the process.
Value - Cost of house increased due to present economic conditions
Lead Source - From my real estate broker
Recognized Excellence - Kenny Jones has been extremely helpful from the start of the build until now.
Any Changes? - We would opt out of installing a bathtub in the master bathroom
Favorite Home Feature - Addition of laundry room sink. We use it every day for the dogs.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Resolved water issues in the garage
Kent Homes staff is highly trained and competent in communicating and carrying out their responsibilities and duties. They demonstrated exceptional customer service, appreciation for our business, and an eagerness to please us and find solutions. They are definitely a ‘yes’ organization instead of a ‘no’!
Lead Source - Model Home
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - Open concept
Customer Suggestion - Perhaps provide a cost sheet showing the price ranges within the different levels several days ahead of selections. For example, Level 3 countertops is $2000-$3000, Level 4 is $3000-$4000, etc. provide ranges for all selections - cabinets, lights, flooring, plumbing fixtures, etc. Then when we arrive at selections and want a higher level, we have a general range of what we might consider and what might be slightly above budget or significantly above budget….
Recognized Excellence - Without a doubt - Sarah Mebane and Ella Stikeleather. I’m going to miss communicating with them when we move to the construction phase. They are swift to respond, accurate, skilled, and courteous!
Areas For Improvement - None
Areas Of Satisfaction - Their responsiveness to us. There were no delaying tactics or broken promises. They have responded swiftly and thoroughly to our many questions, concerns, changes and criteria.
Salesperson Accessibility - Carol was one of the first to respond to our inquiries when we started looking at the three builders that Sunset Reach offers. During our first call with Carol,she answered all of our questions and more.
Salesperson Communication - Carol respons within the same day and we appreciate that so much about her. I had so many questions,often emailing Carol several times a day. Carol answered every single email. We were so impressed by her patience with us.
Value - Several interior options are fair, and some upgrade options are much higher than the value, of a light fixture,for example. We also found the kitchen appliances very expensive. We understand that installation fees need to be considered, but we were pretty blown away by the mark-up of the wine fridges,stoves, etc.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - The additional balcony
Areas Of Satisfaction - We are only at the beginning of our project,and so far it's been the communication that we value the most. We are doing this remotely,from CA, and Carol keeping in touch with us the way she did, really kept us at ease and made us feel confident that we choose the right builder.
We are completely satisfied with all aspects of our Kent experience. Every member of the team was exceedingly courteous, knowledgeable, professional, and focused throughout the entire build process. Our home was ready weeks ahead of the expected date, due in large part to Archie working miracles to accommodate last minute changes. Everything is perfect, and we are very grateful.
Lead Source - I heard about Kent Homes through the St. James Properties Builders Guild.
Salesperson Accessibility - Carol Hobbs was absolutely accessible and responsive throughout the process.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - I am most excited about the customized layout.
Customer Suggestion - I would suggest including some of the most popular optional selection in a base package.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The flexibility exceeded my expectations.
Design Consultant Communication - Alina was great about letting us know what to expect during the selections process. We received several publications that offered in-depth overviews of each design choice. This even included a link to a paint design palette, which allowed us to test out different color scenarios.
Professional & Organized - Alina was very professional, but very personable. We spent quite a bit of time together, and she was an absolute pleasure to work with.
Design Consultant Knowledge - Alina knows her stuff! She was able to address everything from color schemes to outlet placement to gas lines. She had great insight, and was able to relate how a decision in one area would affect the project elsewhere.
Design Consultant Problem Resolution - We are planning to upgrade our kitchen appliances, including a rather large refrigerator. We realized the refrigerator might affect the cabinet design. Alina worked with her team and within 24 hours provided the perfect solution.
Design Solutions - In addition to reconfiguring our kitchen cabinets, which was no small undertaking, Alina helped us think through the master bath, and imagine our backyard patio/firepit scenario, among many other ideas.
Design Consultant Accessibility - Alina is tightly scheduled, since she is 100 percent focused on helping buyers' design their homes. While we appreciated having her undivided attention during the process, we found that we would sometimes have to wait a day or two to get an email returned. This is not her fault, but it was a bit frustrating. When we did get a response, Alina always answered our questions thoroughly and accurately.
Selections Budget - Alina was very good about letting us know the cost of each addition.
Design Consultant Trust - Alina followed up on all outstanding issues in a timely manner. She had our complete confidence and trust throughout the selections process.
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - Our loggia! Coming from New England, we are looking forward to year-round access to what will essentially be an outdoor living room.
Recognized Excellence - Carol Hobbs and Alina Aviles.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Customer service has been great. Also, the reason we selected Kent was because of the BarHarbour I floor plan and the flexibility we were given to add a second floor balcony.
Areas For Improvement - So far so good!
Construction Quality - Our house is only 50% complete. So far, we've been very pleased with the workers' skills and attention to detail. And all materials are high quality, and exactly as ordered.
Communication - Archie is very diligent about our scheduled progress calls. In addition, he regularly posts photos. We are building this house from Connecticut, so it's imperative that we have open and clear communication. Archie is always a quick text or phone call away.
PM Expertise - Archie has a complete understanding of our house plan, and is able to speak to the most minute detail. He is extremely knowledgable about the building industry, POA requirements, and all other aspects of home construction. Since we are not able to be on-site, it is such a comfort to know that Archie is supervising the build, and truly has our interests at heart.
PM Professionalism - In addition to his obvious knowledge about home building, Archie is the consummate professional. Exceedingly polite, wonderful sense of humor, and just a delight to work with.
PM Problem Resolution - Not surprisingly, we have run into 2-3 glitches as the home build has progressed. But each time, Archie either fixed the problem before we even knew about it, or took immediate steps to intervene once he learned about a situation. He has a very clam demeanor, gives us a sense of comfort, and just assures us that everything is under control!
PM Professional & Organized - Archie runs a smooth ship! He has kept the building process on schedule, and has impressed us with his deep understanding of our build schedule. In fact, at this point in the build we are actually ahead of schedule! Not sure how he's managed this, but we are grateful.
Understand Building Process - Archie has kept us informed about the build schedule, and let's us know what to expect. He also posts photos, which we truly appreciate.
Trust - Archie has our full confidence, and we trust that he is building our dream house as if it were his own!
Overall Experience - With 50% of our home complete, we have been very pleased with our Kent Homes experience.
Recognized Excellence - Carol Hobbs is a big part of the reason why we chose Kent. Alina Aviles worked tirelessly to offer design recommendations. And Archie Medina has been a trusted partner in managing the building process.
Clean & Safe - Although we managed the build from long distance, we were very impressed when we did visit. Everything was exceedingly clean and tidy, wtih all materials safely stored. We appreciate that the house was cleaned several times before we took possession.
Quality Of Workmanship - We ordered several custom features including loggia ceiling, ship lap, coffered ceiling, etc... Everything was perfect! There were a few very minor mistakes that Archie proactively caught and handled before we even knew about them!
PM Professional & Organized - Archie had encyclopedic knowledge of even the most minute detail of the house. I have no idea how he kept it all straight, but he impressed us with his attention to detail, and successful management of the production schedule.
Communication - We held regular Zoom meetings, but Archie was easily available via phone or text for additional consults.
PM Professionalism - Archie has complete knowledge about all aspects of the build process. He was able to offer many solutions that helped accommodate specific preferences, and never, ever complained about the additional work our requests created.
PM Expertise - Not only does Archie have complete knowledge about the details of our house, and the homebuilding process, but he seems to know just about every contractor in North Carolina! He was able to offer qualified tradesman to help with "extras" including hardscape, built-ins/shades, AV, garage floor finishing, and landscaping. Everyone knows -- and respects -- Archie, and worked in tandem with Kent to incorporate our additions.
PM Problem Resolution - We had a few little bumps along the way, but Archie quickly and seamlessly resolved the problem. For example, we decided to have an AV system installed, which would require having wire installed before the walls and ceilings were done. However, when we decided to do this, the sheetrock had already been done. Rather than tell us we were too late, Archie worked with the contractor to figure out to get the wiring done in the least disruptive manner. We were very grateful, and I know it was a much bigger headache than he ever let on.
Trust - Archie kept a tight timeline and somehow he brought the project in several weeks ahead of schedule. We were never more impressed though, when a tropical storm materialized on the morning of our September walkthrough. Rather than cancel the meeting (which we had traveled from CT to attend), Archie made the trip to St. James and calmly gave us several hours of his time. I know he ran into trouble getting home that afternoon, but he never complained. Looking back, had we known how bad the storm was going to be we should have postponed. But all credit to Archie and his professionalism for keeping the appointment. We were very grateful.
Schedule - Home was completed several weeks ahead of schedule, we weren't quite ready to move!
Condition of Home - Our new home was immaculate and beautiful.
Orientation Punch List - We still have open items on the punch list, so premature to comment on this.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Quality, timeliness, creativity, professionalism, expertise, and value.
Recognized Excellence - Carol Hobbs, Archie Medina and Alina Aviles.
Additional Comments - We were very close to buying a home with Hagood or Bill Clarke. Carol Hobbs knew we wanted an upstairs balcony and went out of her way to show us how the Bar Harbour could accommodate our preferences. She is the reason we went with Kent, and we are very grateful. And Archie Medina became such an important part of our life! He had our complete confidence and trust, and it was well placed. Our deep thanks to the entire team!
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - The pantry that opens to conditioned storage--that literally sold us on the house. And the built-ins in the dining room, great room and study.
Recognized Excellence - Working with Kayla and Amy has been great. We feel well taken care of. A couple of small glitches but very quickly resolved. So far so good!
Customer Suggestion - Why is it so hard to get a wood burning fireplace on a screen porch? Ever since I started looking at the Wilmington area 15 years ago, I've had my heart set on one. Other builders do them all the time. Hagood quoted $10k. You guys said at least $25k. In a community that runs on propane, gas fireplaces just aren't practical. So, for now I have to make do with a Solo Stove. I also wish we could have eggshell paint. Flat paint is impossible to clean and looks dull so quickly. At the end of the day, we are really excited about our new home and are very happy with the decisions we made in selections.
Areas Of Satisfaction - We were very happy and surprised with the cabinet and counter choices at selections, and the flooring. I would have liked more tile options but in the end, I'm very happy with what we chose. The quality of the materials was great and we actually only upgraded our countertops. The flooring and cabinets that were standard were perfect for us.
Areas For Improvement - The selections documents are confusing. I understand they are organized by category, but it would be great if they could be cross-referenced to room. We spent a lot of hours prior to and after selections making sure we didn't miss anything. Also--NO PAGE NUMBERS!! Yikes! I spent 30 minutes laying the pages out on our island trying to figure out the correct order.
Trust - AJ is a great guy. He's a straight-shooter and we know when he tells us something, it's accurate.
Clean & Safe - Our neighbors have commented on how clean the job site is compared to other builders on our street.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Three things: flexibility in design; proactive communication; and value for our dollar. We are getting a gorgeous home for a fair price.
Areas For Improvement - I wish there were more flooring and tile options to choose from during selections. We like what we chose but wish there were more. Same with appliances.
Areas For Improvement - Right now the only thing that has us going , "hmmmmm" is the cooktop. We upgraded to the 36 inch but when we actually saw it in person a few weeks ago, we were shocked at the depth. I've never seen a 36" cooktop that small. Had we known it wasn't a true 36" normal depth cook top, we would have looked at a custom option. At some point we will need to replace it because I don't think it's going to be very functional.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Design flexibility. We added a niche in the dining room that resulted in moving the entrance to the master and pushing the exterior wall out 18" and the result is FABULOUS!!! We really love the way it turned out. Thank you Kayla for your creativity!!!
Any Changes? - More natural light in the great room; a larger cooktop—we upgraded to the 36 inch and it is wide but very shallow; it’s hard to put multiple pans in use. We also wish our house was set farther back on our lot. Our lot is very deep but moving it back was never offered as an option, even when we discussed wanting to extend the driveway
Favorite Home Feature - The lanai as a true screen porch—we live out here; the over-sized pantry that was created but extending i to the conditioned storage that our sales rep suggested— hands down the best feature of the house! And, we love our over sized shower.
Areas Of Satisfaction - We absolutely loved working with Kayla and AJ. Nancy in warranty is also a gem. We hear so many horror stories from neighbors about their builds and we had such a positive experience.
Areas For Improvement - Not so much Kent but with the landscaping. I guess with Kent our landscaping allowance was way too low for the size lot we have. We ended up having to pay $10k extra just for basics like sod and a few shrubs. We are really unhappy with the work Wrightsville did. No top soil was put in any of the beds; the drip lines don’t cover the area; they buried our main irrigation shut off (which we discovered when we had a leak—it took two plumbers and finally irrigation llc to figure out where it was buried; all of our rear shrubs are scraggly; mulch has completely washed away in many areas.
Additional Comments - While we don’t plan on moving any time soon, if we built again we would absolutely build with Kent!
They were efficient and a quality builder.
Lead Source - We went to Bluff on the Cape and saw a model open, and we went to look at it. We also went to Compass Point, and they mentioned they had 5 or 6 preferred builders and one was Kent Homes. We have only been here 2 months, and we saw the model at the Bluffs. We liked it, so we went ahead with Kent Homes.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - We are most excited about the open floor plan.
Customer Suggestion - No, we spent 2 days reviewing selections and everything went well.
Recognized Excellence - We would like to recognize Elena Avilen.
Areas Of Satisfaction - We have reviewed construction details and selection details with Elena. We reviewed paint colors for the roof to the inside cabinetry. Everything went smoothly.
Additional Comments - No, we are just excited to continue on. We are waiting for the approvals to move on with the process.
Recognized Excellence - Alina and Kate
Communication - Chris is fantastic in keeping us informed with biweekly calls and pictures as steps are completed
PM Expertise - Chris is very effective with communicating with us every two weeks! He’s very knowledgeable and very reassuring with his answers to our questions.
PM Problem Resolution - No problems
Understand Building Process - We have experience in building other projects but Chris has given us a very relaxed approach to our project because he is very passionate and involved with everything about our house!
Employees & Trade Contractors - Met today the cabinet installers and had a very great interaction!
Areas Of Satisfaction - So far speed and quality of the build
Areas For Improvement - We are very happy and would highly recommend Kent Homes!
Recognized Excellence - Chris Moore Kate DaSilva Alina Aviles
Areas For Improvement - Nothing
Areas Of Satisfaction - Everything so far
Communication - We talked bi weekly if not more and pictures were sent to us every step of the way.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Everything was completed on time as promised.
Areas For Improvement - None
Recognized Excellence - Chris Moore and the design team (Alina Alves and Kate DaSilva )
Additional Comments - Completely satisfied.
Recognized Excellence - Chris Moore had exceptional service.
Any Changes? - I wouldn't change anything about my home.
Favorite Home Feature - I like the patio the most.
Areas Of Satisfaction - All areas met my expectations.
Areas For Improvement - No areas fell short of my expectations.
Additional Comments - Their communication was very effective. They kept to their schedule. They had good communication about everything. They quickly resolved any minor or major issues that we had.
Budget Pre-Con - Carol Hobbs was very good at listening to us talk through design considerations and offering suggestions that we likely would not have considered. For example, going with an extra wide garage door to make access easier.
Change Order Process - My understanding of the change order process: don't. Just get it right by the time plans are signed.
Communication - The only point that could have been communicated better is the overall process going from sales contract through ready-to-frame.
Design Center & Selections - Design center was a bit of challenge. We came up with good selections, but our consultant felt a bit distracted. Moreover, she left Kent's employment after our in-person session but before we completed Selections and our process ended up being delayed. We did have one mis-communication on what we wanted electrically that was caught by the drafting team and resolved in time. In addition, the Selections process has a built-in Catch-22 scenario. Customers are asked to make selections without understanding pricing. In our case, the front door we selected in the Kent studio was an $8,000 up-charge. That was quickly deleted once we reviewed the pricing.
Overall Experience - Challenges with understanding the overall process and getting through Selections drive the reduced rating.
Customer Suggestion - Take a look at what you're doing to educate customers on the overall process and what key decisions need to be focused on and when. A couple of simple one-pagers would likely better communicate what decisions need to be made up front vs. later. Also, an overview of the overall process and expected timeframes would be helpful.
Lead Source - Referral from Kent customer - Greer family
Construction Quality - Both materials and workshop are good. We had a 3rd party inspector review pre-drywall and only very minor observations noted.
Communication - The bi-weekly meetings are working well. He's reached out to us a couple of times when something couldn't wait. He is prompt with his answers when we contact him.
PM Expertise - It is clear that AJ knows how to build a house.
PM Professionalism - AJ has presented a naturally professional demeanor in all his meetings with us. He listens to our questions and provides clear explanations without sounding condescending.
PM Problem Resolution - We have really had very few problems to resolve. We had one or two subcontractors raise scheduling challenges that AJ resolved by pivoting to another provider. Early in the build process, AJ identified that two wrong cabinets had been ordered and was able to correct the order before schedule would be affected.
PM Professional & Organized - AJ is on top of his game. He's been effective at managing trades and getting the timings and sequencing down right. For example, finding the right time for the landscaper to install a retaining wall in the back yard.
Understand Building Process - AJ is effective at explaining the process and how things are moving along.
Clean & Safe - We have not observed any safety issues and have seen that AJ maintains our lot as well as or better than others under construction in the neighborhood.
Overall Experience - AJ and Kent Homes have done a marvelous job managing our build, both from a quality point of view and keeping on schedule. The house next to ours is a smaller model from another builder that started 10 weeks ahead of us. We are likely going to be complete around the same time.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Strengths of Kent Homes includes: quality of build, sticking to schedule, flexibility in accommodating modifications, and length of time available for selections process.
Recognized Excellence - AJ Paladino
Quality Of Workmanship - Our third party inspector was clear: Kent homes has delivered a very well-built high quality home to us.
PM Expertise - AJ is a savvy PM who is effective at managing reluctant subcontractors / utilities.
PM Problem Resolution - When H2GO balked at making timely grinder pump delivery, AJ didn't simply rely on phone calls - he went directly to H2GO offices and "sat on the desk" of the key decision maker to gain commitments from H2GO to get the gender pumps delivered to his houses.
Schedule - Our neighbor, using another builder, kept pointing at our house and asking his PM why Kent was able to build a house without all the delays he was experiencing.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Overall schedule, quality of build, ability to work through adversity (e.g., grinder pump drama), communication with PM, ability to resolve issues/questions with sub contractors / trades.
Areas For Improvement - The glass / mirror subcontractor has underperformed. They never measured for our shelves until long after our move-in. Mirrors showed up cut incorrectly. Our Selections process coordinator lacked the engagement guidance we needed.
Recognized Excellence - AJ has been stellar throughout the build. Carole was very effective guiding us through the sales process.
Additional Comments - Our great lesson in this build process has been the importance of finding the right builder as a partner. Clearly the floor plans / designs are an important first criterion and Kent's offerings were clearly best for us. In comparing our build experience with what we watched our neighbors endure, a couple of other factors emerge as very important. First is the strength of the project manager to drive the process, mange the quality, and communicate with us. Our PM was stellar, making on-the-fly decisions at the build site that created a great build on a challenging lot. Moreover, he was effective at overcoming obstacles that other builder's PMs found more challenging. We had good PM communications throughout the build. Second is the collection of subcontractors / trade professionals that the builder hires to actually do the work. We have very few build quality issues and experienced very few supply chain issues. Last is the financial stability of the builder to honor its commitments. Unlike our neighbors, Kent made no last-minute demands for more cash to complete our build. Our build was completed faster than most - on time AND on budget, with great quality.
Lead Source - I heard about Kent Homes because they do a lot of houses in my neighborhood.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - I am most excited about my kitchen.
Customer Suggestion - I suggest that Kent Homes upgrade their lighting offers and trim packages. They are not in line with other builders of the same caliber. For example, black door knobs are included with other builders; at Kent Homes, you have to pay $750 extra.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The speed of pricing, easy accessibility, and knowledge exceeded my expectations compared to other builders. Carol is professional, and her knowledge as a salesperson made my decision.
Additional Comments - Several comments tell you to wait until you reach the option's region. Before making a choice, I'd want to understand more about my possibilities.
Options - I think the lighting is not updated enough, and I think the tile is also not updated enough.
Favorite Design Feature (Selections) - I am most excited about the kitchen and foyer.
Recognized Excellence - Ella is wonderful, but she is young, I think she is good for the amount of time she has been in the business.
Customer Suggestion - I suggest Kent Homes have more of a true link in the beginning that are pushed off to selections. There should not be such a gully between the beginning and the selections, too much in the balance. The electrical is expensive.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Being transparent about a credit exceeded my expectations.
Areas For Improvement - Miscommunication on some molding that now I am going to have to pay extra for fell short of my expectations.
Additional Comments - It is professional of them to do this so earnestly. It was nice that the CFO and the Head of Production came to say hello.
This is our second Kent Homes home that we have purchased in the last five years. We would not go to any other builder.
Lead Source - My fiancé has purchased a home through Kent Homes before. It has been 4.5 years. We are selling both of our homes and buying a new one. So he had heard about them 4.5 or 5 years ago.
Favorite Design Feature (At Contract) - I am most excited about the bonus room upstairs. My fiancé loves the garage with the extension. I am really excited about the kitchen.
Customer Suggestion - I do not have suggestions for Kent Homes at this point. I am new to this, so I am keeping very good contact with the project manager and Kayla. I think if I had any questions or concerns, I could certainly contact them.
Recognized Excellence - Kenny Jones, the project manager, provided exceptional service.
Areas For Improvement - I can't think of any areas where Kent Homes has fallen short of our expectations.
Areas Of Satisfaction - Kenny Jones has exceeded anything we could have expected. He listened to our needs. He went above and beyond what we were expecting.
Additional Comments - We are excited and looking forward to the whole process. We can't wait to move in.
Clean & Safe - Kenny Jones was amazing. If I could give him more than five stars, I would.
Quality Of Workmanship - I am absolutely satisfied with the quality of workmanship.
PM Professional & Organized - Kenny Jones was absolutely professional and organized.
Communication - Kenny Jones absolutely communicated with me effectively. It was immediately, if not sooner.
PM Expertise - Kenny Jones absolutely had the necessary expertise to manage my project.
Trust - I absolutely trust the project manager to follow through on commitments.
Condition of Home - I was absolutely satisfied with the condition of my home upon move-in.
Orientation Punch List - I am absolutely satisfied with the way the project manager managed the completion of items from my orientation list.
Areas Of Satisfaction - The communication and reliability met and exceeded my expectations from Kent Homes.
Areas For Improvement - If anything, there was a subcontractor that we had difficulty with regarding the landscaping and getting back to us. That was not on Kent Homes, but the landscaping and getting back to us fell short of our expectations from that subcontractor. I am not sure if this is something Kent Homes would like to know to address with that subcontractor.
Recognized Excellence - Kenny Jones absolutely provided exceptional service.
Additional Comments - We have had a lot of people come to our neighborhood looking for lots. They stop by our home as it was one of the first homes built, and we always recommend Kent Homes.