In this episode of Building Brews and BBQ, Vince and Nathan wade knee-deep 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 – You Bought the Land… But the City Owns the Tree

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