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

In this episode of Building, Brews & BBQ, Vince and Nathan tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of homebuilding: design. From bold trends to timeless finishes, they break down how to make smart design decisions—whether you’re building a custom home or selecting finishes from a showroom.

They explore:
• How to balance trendy choices with lasting style
• Where to splurge and where to save
• Smart design strategies that work at any budget
• The power of a single statement piece
• Why committing to your selections matters more than you think
• Tips for using materials like porcelain and mixed metals wisely

This episode is packed with practical advice, honest builder perspective, and a few strong opinions—plus a breakdown of what a “schmear” actually is (spoiler: not for your bagel).

If you’re planning a home, remodeling a space, or just want to make informed choices about design that won’t age out in five years—this one’s for you.

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: The House That Wisdom Built, we’re getting real about contracts — and yes, Vince is salty about it. We break down the good, the bad, and the downright ugly side of Cost Plus contracts (spoiler: we think they’re lazy, risky, and often misleading).

Whether you’re building a $500K home or a $5 million estate, the contract you choose can make or break your experience. We’re pulling back the curtain on what builders really mean when they say “Cost Plus,” why it’s become so popular (even when it shouldn’t be), and how Fixed Price contracts might just save your sanity.

We talk trust, transparency, builder accountability, and why pre-construction matters way more than most people think. If you’re starting the custom home journey — or you’re a builder navigating client expectations — you’ll want to pour a strong drink and tune in.

📥 Download the FREE Freedom Guide:

This companion resource includes bonus tips and more info on selecting the right team for your build. DOWNLOAD HERE

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

Welcome to a laugh-filled, insight-packed episode. Vince and Nathan crack open a couple of brews (yes, even a surprising hat-tip to Miller Lite) and take a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood parts of building: the budget.

They pull back the curtain on how budgeting works in custom home building — from the emotional rollercoaster of early pricing conversations to what really drives costs (labor, materials, and professional services). You’ll learn why pre-construction is like a dress rehearsal, how to plan for unknowns, and the difference between smart splurges and cost-effective saves.

Whether you’re dreaming of your forever home or knee-deep in planning, this episode is your guide to budgeting smarter, not harder — with plenty of stories, real talk, and a little bit of builder banter.

Key topics:
• The “Jets Syndrome” and how to avoid it
• Why your builder’s pricing sticker shock is actually a good thing
• How to plan for contingencies without losing sleep
• Where to save (like light fixtures) and where to invest (like windows and outdoor living)
• The 3 biggest cost categories every homeowner should know
• What “budgeting early and often” really looks like

Pull up a chair, crack a cold one, and let’s talk money — the smart way.
Subscribe, rate, and share it with someone planning their dream build!

📥 Download the FREE Freedom Guide:

This companion resource includes bonus tips and more info on selecting the right team for your build. DOWNLOAD HERE

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 bonus installment of The House That Wisdom Built series, Vince and Nathan are back to take you deeper into the power team concept they introduced in Episode 2. After an overwhelming response from listeners asking for more actionable insights, they deliver big with this episode—laying out the exact questions you should ask every key player on your custom home building team.

From your builder to your landscape architect, they unpack outside-the-box, experience-driven questions that will help you hire smarter, build better, and avoid costly surprises. Whether you’re planning a dream home or refining your current build process, this episode arms you with wisdom that can only come from years of experience (and maybe a few fly-in-the-mouth moments).

This isn’t theory—it’s the real stuff no one else is talking about.

Oh, and don’t forget to grab the FREE Freedom Guide linked in the show notes. Double bonus.

🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The top 3 questions to ask your builder (that most people never think to ask)

• How to sniff out red flags with your architect or designer early

• Why collaboration should be the #1 trait you look for in your Power Team

• How your home automation guy might be overcomplicating your life

• What most engineers get wrong in residential projects

• Practical advice on sustainability, materials, topography, and more

📥 Download the FREE Freedom Guide:

This companion resource includes bonus tips and more info on selecting the right team for your build. DOWNLOAD HERE

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

This episode of Building Brews and BBQ features Carmin Francisco, Senior Design Consultant at California Closets, as she and Vince dive into the art of custom organization. They cover everything from luxury closet must-haves to creative solutions for awkward spaces, pantry designs, and even garage transformations. Carmin shares expert insights on how to personalize every corner of your home, avoid costly mistakes, and make the most of your space. If you’re building, renovating, or dreaming about a home refresh, this episode is packed with practical ideas and inspiring stories.

Contact Carmin Francisco at California Closets
Web: californiaclosets.com
Email: cfrancisco@calclosets.com
Instagram: @caclosets_atlcarmin

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