Posted on Wed, May 09, 2012
This new design by Byler Contracting incorporates the cost savings of a single site, with the desirable lifestyle of single family
homes. Perfect for Owner Occupants or extended families, this is an idea whose time has come. The rental market is healthy and this is a great opportunity to have the best of both world's.
This detached 4 plex plan is 4 homes with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and a 1 car garage on one lot, with one well and one septic system at a price of $425,000.
Contact us for more information on additional plans and prices.
Posted on Tue, Dec 20, 2011
Now is a great time to start the process if you haven't already.
It is time to get prequalified with a lender. That will let you know if credit repair is needed, and it will give you a price range. Most long term lenders offer online prequalification. If you prefer, you can make an appointment to pre-qualify in person with a lender. There are specific requirements for some lending programs that are unique to new construction.
Once you have a price range, you can begin narrow down your house plan. Some builders will have plans available for you to look at. Before you do that it is a good idea to make a list of must have features. Things that you must have; things that would be nice; and things that are really just not that important to you. That will help you narrow down the choices to be made later.
Shopping for your builder can begin even before you are prequalified. Do your homework, check the builder out, look to see that they are properly licensed , bonded, or insured. Ask for recommendations, from real people who have worked with the builder. Ask builders if they have a list of references.
We are always will to answer questions about the process. 
Posted on Fri, Dec 09, 2011
Great article from the Alaska Department of Labor Alaska Economic Trends on residential home construction. The good news is that Alaska has not been hit as hard as other parts of the country,
and things have started to stablize.
Residential building has been slow for several years, kept down by dropping resale prices and increasing building costs. A full 25% of Alaska construction jobs lost in the past 5 years, are in residential construction.
Complete details are outlined in the report. The Alaska Department of Labor & Workforce Development puts out a monthly magazine to the public. Sign up for your own copy.
Byler Contracting has weathered this residential down turn, and continues to build both residential and commercial projects all over the state of Alaska.
Posted on Fri, Nov 11, 2011
Now that Winter has truly arrived, a nice warm fireplace or woodstove seems like a good idea. But is it really?
Open fireplaces may look good, but the efficiency is questionable. House Logic has a great article on energy efficient fireplaces. The article gives descriptions of the various types of fireplaces and how they measure up in terms of energy efficiency. If you choose the right type of added heat source you may even qualify for a tax credit or rebate.
Talk to your contractor when designing or building a new home, about adding a fireplace or other alternative heat source. Many of the Byler standard house plans have a fireplace option. It is a simple way to add warmth and value to your new home.
Posted on Fri, Oct 28, 2011
It is time to meet with your contractor...
When the Mortgage Company has given you numbers to work with....
Knowing the lending program and financial details of your proposed mortgage allows you to shop with confidence for the home that you want. Let your lender know that you plan to build a "new Construction" home; not all mortgage programs are the same, and some have specific requirements for new construction.
When you know what you want...
This includes your house plans, the lot/location of where you will build, and a time frame. It is easier to explain to someone else exactly what you want in a building design, if you are clear about it yourself. If you have specific needs, ie, no stairs, separated master bedroom, or a basement; make those needs clear. Some modifications are easier and less costly than others. Make notes and write out any specific questions that you have, it will make your meeting more productive. 
You have a list of features that are must haves...
Decide up front what is most important to you, the granite countertops, or the upgraded trim package. Although some may seem like small things, they can play havoc with your building budget down the road. Make sure all family members are in agreement on the priorities, building a new home is stressful enough without major disagreements in the construction of the house.
When you are ready, drop us a line to set up an appointment for a meeting to discuss your new home.
Posted on Fri, Oct 07, 2011
If you have a private well that serves your home in Alaska, you should take a few minutes to read this information from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation.
This article covers tests you should have done, and what the results mean. Treatment options outlined for problems that you might encounter.
It is important to get your home's residential water well tested. You should know what is any pathogens or substances are in the water that your drink on a daily basis. Water can affect the health of the members of your household not only trough ingestion, but sometimes through contact with the skin.
It is important to test periodically since ground structure, and water tables can change over time. In earthquake prone areas like Alaska things can change dramatically after what seems to be a mild quake. Movement below the surface change the flow to different subsurface formations, which can change the water quality drastically.
If your neighbor changes his water supply or has construction work done that changes drainage patterns affecting your property, consider retesting. Seemingly small changes can make a big difference. Not all of the things that are found in your water are a threat to your family's health, but you should know the possibilities.
Posted on Tue, Sep 27, 2011
I admit that I am a bit of a information nerd. I like information, and I like to know enough about what is being discussed to be able to follow the conversation. I do my homework, and try to stay ahead of the curve. For those of you that are just a "little geeky" like me, and are planning on building a new home, A great resource for all of the detail that you could ever want is the Alaska Building Science Network.
When it comes to residential new construction in Alaska, there are some climate differences that just have to be considered. Check out the website for information on everything from alternative energy use, to insulation, and venting. Great information to consider during your initial construction planning stages.
Byler has plans that are designed for our climate and for energy efficiency.
Posted on Mon, Sep 19, 2011
This is the story of a Grandfather who wanted to be closer to his grandchildren. Priorities change over time, and at this time in his life, he just wanted to be as close as possible to the people he cares about.
The neighboring property was available, so, he called Byler Contracting, and after selecting his house plans (Master Plan 1- the Knik) in just a few weeks his new home was completed on the lot next door to his grand kids.
This recently completed new home was just finished in the Kenai-Soldotna Area, and the happy new owner is moving in now.
To see this or any of our residential plans: 
Posted on Tue, Sep 13, 2011
Even though the traditional "Construction Season" of Summer is drawing to a close, it isn't over yet! New home construction with Byler Contracting continues all over Alaska, with current residential projects in Kenai-Soldotna, Cordova, Marshal, and in Wasilla.
Along with residential properties, Byler is currently working on the new home of Excel Gymnastics near Hyer Road and the Palmer-Wasilla Highway. It is exciting to see so many commercial projects in progress in the Valley. 
Byler Contracting works all year round, but if your project is scheduled to begin next Spring, now is the perfect time to start the process. Call if you assistance in how to begin the process.![]()
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Posted on Mon, Aug 22, 2011
You don't have to wait for Spring, to have a new home built. An experienced builder, who is familiar with the Alaskan climate, Byler Contracting can build even in the Fall and Winter. Building methods and materials have changed drastically in the past few years. Now, even in residential building, construction can take place year round.
If you are planning to have a new home built soon, there is no need to wait until Spring. Contact us, and we can get the project started now.
