Builder vs. Buyer

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.

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.

Major Announcement - New Show!

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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.

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.