Builder vs. Buyer

Hosted by birnamdesignco

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Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

The home building process is often an adversarial one. Buyers don't trust their builders and builders are annoyed by their buyers. I'm here to help mediate. Advice and tips for builders to get better happier clients, and advice to buyers to be better informed during their build. This podcast is brought to you by Adam Steiner, the owner of Birnam Design Co. a full service residential home design firm. Get in touch - birnamdesign.com/resources Facebook: @birnamdesignco Instagram: @birnamdesignco LinkedIn: Adam Steiner

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60 recent

May 19, 2026Episode 881 hr 4 min

Ep88 - What Are Design Options and Should You Pay for Them When Hiring an Architect?

https://stan.store/birnamdesigncoDoes more choice actually lead to a better floor plan—or just more confusion?In this episode, we tackle a controversial topic in custom home design: should homeowners be given multiple schematic floor plan options during the design process? As designers and builders, we explain why we don’t believe endless options lead to better homes—and how too many choices can create decision fatigue, budget issues, delays, and a less focused design.We break down why a well-thought-out design process often works better than presenting 3, 5, or 10 different floor plan concepts, when alternatives do make sense, and how homeowners can give better feedback to end up with a home that truly fits their lifestyle.🎙 In this episode:• Why “more options” isn’t always better• The downside of multiple schematic floor plans• Decision fatigue in home design• How experienced designers narrow in on the right solution• When exploring alternatives actually makes sense• How homeowners can improve the design processIf you’re building a custom home or planning a floor plan, this episode might change the way you think about design decisions.

January 15, 2026Episode 8748 min

Ep87 - Financing Your Build w/ Cory Nichols

In this episode, Adam sits down with financial advisor Cory Nichols — a self-described “non-bro” voice in the finance world — to break down one of the biggest questions facing today’s home buyers: how do money, mortgages, and mindset collide in the real estate market?Adam and Cory kick things off by unpacking recent interest rate shifts and what they actually mean for buyers, sellers, and builders. Cory explains why chasing low rates can backfire, how affordability should really be measured, and why “what the bank approves” and “what you should buy” are very different numbers.From there, the conversation moves into the realities of today’s housing market — low inventory, rising prices, cash buyers, and why Adam hasn’t designed a “starter home” in years. They explore building versus buying, the emotional side of home decisions, and how long you should really plan to stay in a house.Then things get fun. Cory breaks down real estate investing, land ownership, short-term rentals, and the tax strategies high-income earners are using — including depreciation, cost segregation, and why some real estate “losses” exist only on paper. Adam shares his own thoughts on buying land for future builds and designing experiential short-term rentals.Finally, they dig into real estate transaction costs, agent commissions, industry disruption, and what home buyers should know before signing on the dotted line.If you’re thinking about building, buying, investing, or just trying to make smarter financial decisions around your home — this episode delivers real talk, practical insight, and a few laughs along the way.

July 15, 2025Episode 8659 min

Ep86 - How Long Should Drawings Actually Take?

In this episode, a home designer/drafter and a licensed architect team up to break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the residential design process: how long it really takes to create a full set of drawings. From early concepts to permit-ready plans, we dive into what phases take the most time, what clients can expect at each step, and what factors can slow things down (or speed things up). Whether you're a homeowner, builder, or just curious about how the sausage gets made, this episode pulls back the curtain on the timeline behind the blueprints.

March 19, 20256 min

Major Announcement - New Show!

That's right, I'm starting a new podcast! Check out Small Business Talk on Youtube, Spotify or Apple!

September 10, 202451 min

Ep85 Architect Vs. Drafter w/ Don Duncan

In this episode of Builder vs. Buyer, host Adam Steiner (Birnam Design Co.) sits down with Don Duncan from L4M Architecture to discuss the distinct roles of architects and drafters, exploring how each contributes to the design process. They also dive into the key differences between commercial and residential design, offering insights into what sets these two worlds apart. Whether you're a homeowner, builder, or design enthusiast, this episode breaks down the nuances of architectural design, helping you understand which professionals are right for your next project.

August 1, 202432 min

Ep84 - Building Science Master Dan Kolbert

Welcome to Builder vs Buyer, the podcast where Adam Steiner, owner of Birnam Design Co, dives deep into the world of home building and design. In this episode, Adam is joined by Dan Kolbert, an experienced builder and co-author of the influential building science book Pretty Good House. Together, they explore the principles behind creating homes that balance efficiency, comfort, and sustainability without breaking the bank. Dan shares insights from his book, highlighting practical approaches to building better homes that prioritize smart design over excessive complexity. Whether you're a builder, buyer, or simply curious about sustainable home design, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how to create spaces that are both functional and environmentally friendly. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with expert advice, real-world examples, and a shared passion for improving the places we call home.

April 20, 202448 min

Ep83 - Mastering Sales in Home Building with Mary Marshall Forrest

Join us for an insightful conversation with Mary Marshall Forrest, President of the FPG Group, as we delve into the world of sales training in home building. In this engaging interview, Mary shares her wealth of experience and knowledge, offering invaluable insights into how home builders can optimize their sales teams for success. Discover the strategies and techniques that can transform a sales team from good to exceptional, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive home building market. Mary discusses the importance of continuous training, effective communication, and understanding the unique needs of home buyers. Furthermore, Mary sheds light on how home buyers can navigate the sales process with confidence, providing practical tips on assessing whether a sales team has their best interests at heart. Learn how to recognize authenticity, transparency, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction when engaging with home builders' sales representatives. Whether you're a home builder seeking to enhance your sales team's performance or a prospective home buyer looking for guidance in navigating the purchasing journey, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you achieve your goals. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how trust and expertise shape the dynamics of sales in the home building industry.

March 4, 20241 hr 8 min

Ep82 - Subcontractor vs Contractor

Do your subs like your builder? How do you even know, how can you tell? We dive into that and much more in today's episode. I'm joined again by special guest Joe Drew of Marathon Craftsmen. Enjoy!

December 8, 202357 min

Ep81 - Office to Field Communication

Welcome to "Builder vs. Buyer," the podcast where we break ground on the intricate world of home construction. I'm your host, Adam Steiner, and in each episode, we delve deep into the dynamic relationship between builders and buyers, exploring the nuances that define the construction process. In this episode, I sit down with Joe Drew, a seasoned carpenter, to unravel the mysteries surrounding office to field communication in home building. Together, we navigate the challenges and triumphs of bridging the gap between the planning desk and the construction site. From discussing cutting-edge technologies to time-tested strategies, "Builder vs. Buyer" is your go-to source for insights into the evolving landscape of home construction. Join us as we uncover the keys to effective communication in the field, providing both builders and buyers with the knowledge they need to turn dreams into structures. Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or a homeowner embarking on the journey of building your dream home, "Builder vs. Buyer" is here to demystify the construction process, one episode at a time. Tune in and discover the blueprints for success in the ever-evolving world of home building.

December 1, 202335 min

Ep80 Murray Smith Birnam Audio Interview

Join us on an insightful journey into the world of home design and construction with Abbe Murray of Murray Design Company and Zach Smith of Smith Mountain Builders. In this engaging podcast, we delve deep into the intricacies of the home building process, discussing the artistry, challenges, and innovation behind a recent project. From initial concepts and design inspirations to the hands-on construction phase, Abbe and Zach share their expertise, stories, and lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a homeowner, design enthusiast, or industry professional, this conversation offers a valuable glimpse into the collaborative and creative process of bringing a dream home to life. Tune in for an enriching discussion that unveils the magic behind the walls and beyond the blueprints.