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