Author Archives: Neil Parsons

About Neil Parsons

Neil Parsons is a nationally-known, award-winning professional in the remodeling industry.

Memories of Mom ~ Rosemary Parsons

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A sad and tragic memory, but a very peaceful one now:

On February 10, 1987 we were in the limo going from the funeral home to the church for my paternal grandmother’s funeral and my pager beeped. Of course I knew what it was about. We stopped at the first pay phone and I called my maternal grandparents who were back at our house in Clark with my Mom. Her time was up. We immediately left Jersey City to head back home. We never made it to Grandma Parsons’ funeral mass, but I heard that it was quite beautiful, as the priest spoke about both her and my mother together. Continue reading →

NJ Realtor Remodeler Finance Network

This entry was posted in Home and Family Lifestyle, Home Remdodeling and tagged , , , , on by .

House for sale to be remodeled - Design Build PlannersNew Jersey Realtors, many of the Design Build Planners project inquires are now from families looking to purchase a home and immediately remodel some or all of it. The earlier that we are involved with them, the better we can professionally advise and guide them as far as budgets and time lines. With that, we are planning to put together a team of realtors to network with throughout NJ in conjunction with DBP, our remodeler network and mortgage brokers. Continue reading →

Under Cabinet LED Lighting

This entry was posted in Home Remdodeling, Kitchens and tagged , , , , , , on by .

under cabinet lighting for kitcen cabinets and design build remodeling in NJ (4)Over the year’s, kitchens have become more and more technological. The under the cabinet LED lighting is one answer to the demanding need for technology in the kitchen. Fits under cabinets to discreetly provide light, Bluetooth music system, power outlets, USB ports, and mobile charging cradles the system enables backsplash to be clear of outlets and cord clutter. The product is available in four different lengths. This clears countertops of cords going in every which direction. Clearing more room for pots and pans and all the ingredients needed for cooking. Continue reading →

Washing Machines

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front loading washing machineAlthough a front-load washing machine and a top-load washing machine both share the same purpose, they have quite a few differences. A front-load washer is most convenient when placed on top of something to keep it elevated such as a pedestal. You can also use a stackable washer and dryer. You must have the room to accommodate one on top of the other and also  comfortably be able to remove the laundry out from the dryer. Continue reading →

Tesla Solar Roof Shingles

This entry was posted in Energy Savings, Home Remdodeling, Remodeling Industry Information and tagged , , , , , on by .

tesla-solar-roof-shingles-1Tesla Motors Elon Musk may be making another critical impact on society. He has been approved by shareholders for $2.6 billion to tie up in solar roof shingles. In his speech he stated, would you like a roof that looks better than a normal roof, last twice as long, cost less and by the way generates electricity’ why would you get anything else.” Who wouldn’t raise their hand? Continue reading →

Tankless Water Heaters for a New Jersey Home

This entry was posted in Bathrooms, Remodeling Industry Information and tagged , , on by .

Tankless Water Heater by the Design Build PlannersA tankless water heater or also known as instantaneous water heaters. They have the ability to provide hot water only when the user needs it. When the hot water is turned on cold water flows through a pipe and into the unit in which it is then heated. This process can save money due to the fact that it not sitting in a unit and using up energy to keep the water hot. This process can save a homeowner hundreds of dollars in energy costs. Since the hot water is being made on demand it can be tricky to provide solid water pressure if more then one appliance is running at the same time. For example, if someone is taking a hot shower with the dishwasher running the water will then be distributed between the two. That is hot water on demand. Continue reading →

How Did Design Build Planners Begin?

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Neil Parsons Design Build PlannersBeing in the remodeling industry in several different capacities over many years, I have witnessed many mistakes that contractors made and the poor decisions that homeowners made.

With the intent to make remodeling projects more professional and pleasant for all those involved, we created Design Build Planners. Our unique, award-winning project design and development process offers homeowners a smarter approach to home remodeling. We prepare our clients with design options, accurate budgets, detailed work scope, scheduling, and product selections. From there, we discuss the next step, which is how to get the project built. A homeowner can choose to build themselves (DIY), GC or manage the project themselves, hire their own contractor, or work with our recommended remodeler from the DBP Preferred Network. Continue reading →

Do You Know Neil Parsons

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Parsons Construction Clark NJIn the category of “It’s a small world”

Last week a Clark, New Jersey homeowner called a remodeler about getting some work done. The woman asked, “Do you know Neil Parsons?” The 25 year old remodeler answered, “Yes, I do!” She explained that Parsons Construction did work on her home almost 30 years ago.

The moral of the story: In business it is important to build a brand. Be memorable, leave an impression, and hopefully, most often, it’s a good impression. Continue reading →

A $3,000 Bathroom Remodel

This entry was posted in Bathrooms, Remodeling Industry Information and tagged , , , , on by .

DISCLAIMER: This article, nor I, have the answer to what A $3,000 Bathroom Remodel is or exactly would include. Read my rant below to understand the basis for this article’s title.

Award winning NJ bathroom remodel - Design Build PlannersA homeowner can choose to have almost any budget, high or low for a project. The question is then, “What do you get for that particular budget?” The factors are many, such as DIY (do it yourself) or hire a professional. Check out our informative article about Who Will Build Your Remodeling Project. The extent of the work scope is also a major factor. For instance, in a bathroom remodel the project may call for a complete demolition and gut of the walls and floor. Doing this allows for checking the in-wall plumbing connections and electrical wiring then updating as needed. Plus, any rotted wood or mold can be addressed. New insulation and fresh, moisture resistant drywall and cement board can be installed. Some may opt to forgo these steps and tasks and simply do a bathroom makeover where the fixtures and tile are replaced and the wall components listed prior remain. Continue reading →

Home Shows vs Houzz

This entry was posted in Remodeling Industry Information and tagged , , , , , , on by .

Are you planning a home remodeling project? Where do you start gathering information and ideas? Two of the most common options are the internet and home shows. Both venues can offer great insight to projects, companies, products and design ideas. While both are viable, they have a different set of pros and cons and may cater to different audiences.

Design Build Planners at the Remodeling home show (1)Home shows are a group of company exhibits set up in a building, typically for a weekend, for consumers to visit and view. Admission for an adult will range from free to perhaps $12. Often there are coupons or discounts available from either the show promoter or individual exhibitors. While attending, homeowners can see the displays of the companies that may range from full service, general contractors to individual trades people like painters, electricians, architects, designers, siding installers…etc. There may also be suppliers there displaying products that may include appliances, tile, windows, generators…etc. Continue reading →