Demo Day gets all the glory—but before the dust flies, there’s some serious groundwork to be done. In this episode of Building Brews & BBQ, Vince and Nathan walk through everything that should happen before the sledgehammer swings. From permits and site prep to managing neighbors and expectations, this one’s packed with the kind of wisdom that can save your project—and your driveway.

You’ll hear:

• Why Demo Day is more emotional than most people expect
• How to protect your floors, walls, and sanity
• The real reason to host a “Donuts & Demo” event (and how it helps keep the city off your back)
• What happens when you don’t pull the right permits (hint: red tags)
• Pro tips on asbestos, mold, utility shutoffs, and avoiding DIY disaster
• The difference between building with the neighborhood vs. against it

Plus: How one simple idea from a fellow builder—inviting the neighbors in for donuts—might be the best investment you make all project long.

Send us your favorite demo clip, and let us know—would you show up for donuts and destruction?

Building Brews & BBQ
Instagram: @buildingbrewsandbbq
YouTube: YouTube.com/@BuildingBrewsandBBQ

Hosts:
Vince Longo
longocustombuilders.com
Instagram: @longocustombuilders

Nathan Walters:
massarossa.com
Instagram: @massarossa

Produced by:
Michael Newman
michaelnewmanfilm.com
Instagram: @michaelnewmanfilm

In this episode of Building Brews and BBQ, we’re talking about one of the most exciting – and often overlooked – milestones in any home build: the pre-construction handoff. Vince and Nathan walk through what this pivotal moment looks like, why it matters, and how it can set the stage for a smoother build experience.

From “Co-Construct Happy Hours” to sharing the full design board with homeowners, we unpack how the handoff from pre-construction to construction shapes the next phase of your project. It’s a moment for celebration, but also a critical opportunity to ensure everyone’s on the same page before the first shovel hits the dirt.

We also dive into the emotional rollercoaster that begins with construction, complete with laughs and real talk about the highs, lows, and everything in between. Whether you’re building your dream home or just curious about what really happens behind the scenes, this episode is packed with insights

Building Brews & BBQ
Instagram: @buildingbrewsandbbq
YouTube: YouTube.com/@BuildingBrewsandBBQ

Hosts:
Vince Longo
longocustombuilders.com
Instagram: @longocustombuilders

Nathan Walters:
massarossa.com
Instagram: @massarossa

Produced by:
Michael Newman
michaelnewmanfilm.com
Instagram: @michaelnewmanfilm

In this episode of Building Brews and BBQ, Vince and Nathan get into the murky waters of permitting, inspections, and everything that can delay your build before a single nail is hammered. From confusing digital portals to costly tree ordinances, we’re talking about the bureaucratic maze that frustrates homeowners and builders alike.

Why does it take three months to get a permit in some cities? Why can’t you remove that tree—on your own property? And why does it feel like your builder disappeared after design approval? This episode answers all of that and more.

We’re pulling no punches and shedding light on the not-so-fun phase of pre-construction—because if you’re not prepared for the red tape, your dream home might hit more road blocks than you expect.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Intro

2:00 – The Permitting Black Hole

9:00 – From Donuts to Portals: Losing the Human Touch

17:00 – Tree Ordinances & the $300K Penalty

24:00 – Drainage, Setbacks, and the Disappearing Pool Space

31:00 – “But the City Approved It!” (And Why That Doesn’t Matter)

35:00 – Final Takeaways: What You Need to Know

Building Brews & BBQ
Instagram: @buildingbrewsandbbq
YouTube: YouTube.com/@BuildingBrewsandBBQ

Hosts:
Vince Longo
longocustombuilders.com
Instagram: @longocustombuilders

Nathan Walters:
massarossa.com
Instagram: @massarossa

Produced by:
Michael Newman
michaelnewmanfilm.com
Instagram: @michaelnewmanfilm