Since 1995, Benchmark’s model for success is putting the customer first and providing exceptional design, quality workmanship and outstanding service. Whether they’re building luxurious single family homes or spacious town homes, their focus on customer needs plays out in everything they do.
LIVING UP TO ITS NAME
Benchmark Homes works hard to exceed customers’ expectations. “We want to create a home that is user friendly, and a community that people want to come home to,” says Jeff Bontkes, President of Benchmark Homes. “We take pride providing value for our customers, so when you choose Benchmark, you’ll benefit from living in a neighbourhood with higher standards because we carefully research the areas in which we build to ensure they have everything families are looking for.”
From the moment a client steps through the showroom doors to the day they take possession and beyond, every effort is made to make the home building experience an enjoyable one. Benchmark Homes develop procedures that simplify the many complex decisions involved, and navigate the customer through the process in order to make the process less overwhelming. It also ensures that their customers make the best decisions in a timely but manageable manner.
Benchmark Homes built approximately 70 homes last year throughout the Lower Mainland in British Columbia. By keeping the volume at this level; they can dedicate more attention, effort and focus on their customers and building the best home for their individual needs.
YOUR BENCHMARK GAURANTEE
One of the most important benefits of buying a new home is the comprehensive warranty program that comes with your home. Benchmark Homes has a 10-year warranty program arranged through Travelers Guarantee, an inclusive coverage plan that is approved under the B.C. Homeowner Protection Act. This gives the buyers peace of mind with a thorough pre-delivery inspection process to identify any problems that require attention. This process is supported by a one year warranty on labour and materials, a five year Building Envelope Warranty, and a ten year Structural Defects Warranty.
At Benchmark Homes they understand the joy and excitement that comes with buying a newly built home. As a result, they maintain open communication between themselves and their customers during every phase of the construction process. Customer satisfaction is very important. They believe that trust, honesty and communication are key to building lifelong relationships. “Customer Care is our number one priority, we will make an extra effort to make sure every step meets the customers satisfaction,” says Bontkes. Benchmark’s vision and inspiration continues to bring real value and pride of ownership to each and every new home owner. “Just like a good home, we built our business on strong foundations of customer satisfaction and trust.” From the first design to the last nail, they work hard to know every customer’s needs. It is the only way to design a new home that’s perfect every time.
DISTINCTIVE STYLE
Benchmark Homes embrace the traditional housing elements of solidity and craftsmanship while incorporating the home owner’s personal tastes and desires. Each detail has been stamped with superiority, and every room is customized to perfection. This type of craftsmanship can only be achieved by a highly trained team of builders and subcontractors who value putting a little bit of themselves into each home.
Benchmark Homes’ home plans are rich in exterior detailing with unique decorative features such as steep and dramatic rooflines and facades of brick, stone, and superior material. Other noticeable characteristics like bayed windows, stylish keystones and decorative quoins lend a touch of beauty and splendor. Decorative elements may include stylish columns defining the living spaces, special ceiling treatments and arched openings and doorways. While these floor plans are generously sized, small home plans can display some of the same noteworthy design elements.
PARTNERSHIPS AND GIVING BACK
Jeff credits the company’s consistency to their design and construction services and their true commitment to quality in every regard. Every home that they build is completely customized and the inclusion list is tailored to suit each client.
Benchmark Homes has built their personal reputation by demanding a high level of customer service and quality workmanship from their own employees extending out to suppliers and tradesmen. “We’re passionate about getting the details right, and achieving the higher quality outcome,” he explains. “We bring that level of commitment to everything we do, and we prove it to our clients with the work we produce.” That commitment is also shared by their roster of highly skilled tradespeople – many of whom have been working with the company since the beginning. “Having tried and true relationships with our subcontractors is important to building a strong performing team on-site,” Bontkes says. “All of our trades are interested in ensuring everything is done right, and that keeps the quality of our projects high.”
Benchmark Homes has embraced the “good neighbour” ethic by giving back to the homebuilder’s community and the community at large. Their value system wouldn’t be complete without a commitment to community. The word community defines them. It is the true core of their work, and the essence of their corporate culture. Time and resources are contributed to supporting charitable organizations, community groups, and local schools to improve the quality of life for all British Columbians.
COMMUNITIES
If you’ve ever visited one of Benchmark Homes’ numerous communities then you already know the level of craftsmanship that sets them apart. You’ll see it in completed communities such as Yorkson South in the heart of Langley, Southview – a Whistler inspired project located on prestigious Burke Mountain in Coquitlam, and Morgan Heights in South Surrey.
Benchmark Homes is currently wrapping up Phase 6 of Homes at Ascot as well. The 40 luxurious single family homes incorporate a West-coast style designed by renowned architect Frederick T. Sale located on the slopes of Willoughby in the centre of Langley. “The Ascot is the perfect setting from where you can connect easily with all that matters to you most.” says Jeff. “There’s great shopping, from speciality stores and malls, to the Langley Farmers market and the up-coming Willoughby Town Market.” Each of the Ascots 3 and 4 bedroom homes are handcrafted using natural materials and fresh, earth-tone patinas. Open-concept floor plans, gourmet kitchens complete with quartzite countertops, stainless steel appliances and two distinctive colour schemes, Soft Oak and Natural Wenge. “The Homes at Ascot are a contemporary interpretation of the connection between nature and community,” says Bontkes.
The future is bright and momentum is building for this fast paced and efficient company with future plans to develop three new communities. Visitors will be in for a real treat as construction will soon begin at Creekside, a collection of 52 contemporary townhomes at the corner of Fraser Highway and 68th Avenue in Surrey. This vibrant new neighbourhood will offer an array of home designs and with a growing collection of amenities. From the growing family to the empty nester, there is a home design to suit any lifestyle. Also slated for 2014 is Grandview Heights in prestigious South Surrey, a collection of 82 single family homes located at 23rd Avenue and 168th Street. This community is close to trails and parks, offering many opportunities for recreation and enjoying the great outdoors. Spacious lots will grace the streets of this community, with unique enclaves and community features that are destined to make this community one-of-a-kind.
Benchmark Homes will also introduce a single family community North Yorkson, a combination of mixed residential homes in the heart of the Willoughby area of Langley, located at 206th Street and 84th Avenue. This will be a distinctive, self-contained community with all the services a busy lifestyle demands, for both today and tomorrow.
THE FUTURE
Jeff credits the company’s recognition to their comprehensive systems and processes, all of which have been carefully honed and refined over the life of the business. “I believe we have the experience, and the corporate structure and strength to look after our customers, I would say we provide a specialized buying experience.” Those systems start during the initial sales process and last all the way to the final handover. Moving forward, Benchmark will continue to update and improve those systems; continue to operate at the peak of efficiency; and strive to find new opportunities within the Lower Mainland.