Stockell Custom Homes
Established in 1986 by Donald M Stockell, Stockell Homes is an award-winning and certified custom home builder specializing in luxury homes, renovations, and green building, and delivering new construction work for both residential and commercial projects.
In this month’s feature, we talked with Don Stockell, Vice President of Stockell Custom Homes, about their commitment to building HERS® homes.
Q: What is special about a HERS-rated home?
A: Don Stockell: A HERS-rated home is significantly more energy efficient and comfortable compared to a non-rated home. It provides measurable performance benefits that enhance both sustainability and livability.
Q: Why should consumers ask for the HERS Index Score on homes they are shopping for?
A: Don Stockell: Requesting the HERS Index score allows consumers to understand the home’s energy efficiency and estimate potential savings on utility bills. It’s a transparent way to compare long-term operating costs between homes.
Q: Why did Stockell Custom Homes choose to have this home HERS-rated?
A: Don Stockell: We choose to have our homes HERS rated to demonstrate our commitment to quality and customer care. It reinforces our position as a builder that prioritizes energy efficiency and transparency.
Q: Why should consumers expect energy-efficient homes?
A: Don Stockell: Today’s homebuyers should expect their new homes to be more cost-effective to heat and cool than older homes. Energy efficiency is no longer a luxury—it’s a standard of modern, responsible homebuilding.
Q: How many homes do you build with HERS per year?
A: Don Stockell: We build between 8 to 10 homes annually, and every one of them is HERS rated.
Q: How do you market HERS-rated homes?
A: Don Stockell: We emphasize that all our homes are HERS rated, giving buyers confidence in the quality and efficiency of their investment. Rather than making vague claims about energy efficiency, we provide concrete data to back it up.
Q: How do your customers feel about HERS-rated homes?
A: Don Stockell: Our customers appreciate the assurance that their new home will be more affordable to operate than comparable non-rated homes. They value the transparency and trust the third-party verification process.
Q: What rating company do you work with on your HERS-rated homes?
A: Don Stockell: We partner with ASER USA, serving St. Louis and surrounding counties. In addition to conducting our HERS ratings, they certify our homes under ENERGY STAR, EPA Indoor airPLUS, and the DOE Efficient New Homes Program (formerly Zero Energy Ready Home Program). Their expertise helps us consistently meet and exceed energy efficiency standards.
