When it comes to building a custom home, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes. While many clients interact with the sales team and project managers, there’s another key player working to ensure every dream home becomes a reality—Dan Capitella, Welbilt Homes’ Project Estimator and Purchaser. Dan’s role may be behind the scenes, but it’s crucial in managing the pricing, materials, and expectations that drive a successful home build.
What Does Dan Do?
Dan is responsible for turning your ideas into detailed plans and budgets. When you share with Alana all your wants and wishes—whether it’s a pet shower, media room, or upgraded flooring—Dan steps in to determine the costs associated with each request. Your wish/want list then becomes the foundation to determine what the allowances will be when Abigail sits down with you for your Selections Meeting. See how important Dan is throughout the whole process of the build?
Dan explains, “Alana collects the initial requests from clients and passes them on to me. From there, I price out everything and ensure the numbers align with the customer’s expectations.”
Dan’s expertise is rooted in years of experience and a background in Carpentry Sciences and Construction Management. This blend of hands-on knowledge and strategic thinking allows him to manage the complexities of pricing materials and stay on top of market trends.
Managing Costs Without Surprises
One of the biggest challenges in home building is balancing a client’s desires with their budget. Dan’s approach? Be proactive and transparent. “I keep a close eye on material and labor costs,” he says. “We get regular updates from suppliers and vendors about price changes, and I make sure to reflect that in our quotes.”
By staying on top of cost fluctuations, Dan ensures that you don’t have to face “sticker shock” when it’s time to sign your contract.
Allowances and Selections
As the build progresses, there may be times you want to make a change or two from your original plan—maybe opting for a more intricate tile or a different flooring material. When that happens, it’s Dan’s job to make sure these updates fit within the allowances set during the initial budgeting phase.
“A client might start with a level 2 tile and later decide they want a level 5, which can significantly change the cost,” he explains. “I help them understand why the price goes up and offer alternatives that maintain the quality they’re looking for without breaking the bank.”
Should you still want the higher-quality product? Of course we can provide it; the cost simply would be an additional fee over and above the allowance.
His goal is to make sure clients are happy with the outcome and avoid costly surprises down the line. “Getting accurate information from the start is key. It helps us avoid situations where the final cost is much higher than expected.”
Working with Vendors and Contractors
Dan’s role extends beyond just crunching numbers. He works closely with Welbilt Homes’ network of vendors and contractors to source the best materials at competitive prices. “We maintain open communication with our vendors to ensure that we’re getting quality products at the best possible price,” he says.
In some cases, Dan even negotiates special programs with suppliers. These programs allow Welbilt Homes to offer high-end finishes at a reduced cost, giving you the luxury you want without the hefty price tag.
Handling the Unexpected
As with any large project, things don’t always go as planned. Whether it’s a material shortage or a client changing their mind halfway through the build, Dan is there to find solutions.
“We try to stay ahead by ordering materials early, especially if we know something might become unavailable,” he explains. “If that’s not possible, we work with other brands to find similar products or have honest conversations with the client about adjusting their expectations.”
Dan’s proactive approach and ability to pivot makes him an invaluable part of the Welbilt Homes Team.
The Importance of Communication
At the end of the day, Dan’s role is about more than just managing costs. It’s about communication—making sure there is a clear understanding with everyone about the expectations of the process, the pricing, and the decisions being made.
“The more information the client gives us upfront, the better,” Dan emphasizes. “Even if some of the details aren’t implemented, it helps us plan and ensures that when construction starts, we’re all on the same page.”
His careful attention to detail and client-focused approach help ensure that every Welbilt home is built to the highest standards—without any surprises along the way.