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The holidays are here. It’s the time of year when you try to juggle all the preparation while maintaining a joyful spirit. All year long, you’ve made “To Do” lists for fixing up your home before the end of the year. How have you done with that? Now, time is running out and you’ve got to focus on what you can get done. If you’re planning on overnight visitors, here are some McGuinn Hybrid Homes tips to get your guest room ready for the holidays.

De-clutter the room.

Go into your guest room and lie on the bed. Look around and what do you see? What seems out of place? Is it cluttered? Often, the guest room is where things are stashed when you don’t know where else to put them. Maybe you have your craft supplies in there, or the kids’ excess toys or the closet is filled with clothes that are out of season. What has been tucked away in the nightstands?

If you want to make your visitors feel welcome, don’t put them in a glorified storage closet. Move out the things that don’t belong in a guest room. Use a few plastic bins to pack them up. After the holidays, sort through those bins (don’t even attempt it now!) and decide what to do with everything.

Change the bedding.

Unless you have a steady stream of overnight guests, chances are, the bedding hasn’t been refreshed in awhile. Is it still in good condition? Check out the pillows. Are they still fluffy and fresh smelling? Wash everything, including the mattress pad and bed skirt. Whether or not you decide to purchase new bedding, add a couple of holiday-themed throw pillows to the bed.

While you’re checking out the condition of the bedding, also look at what you’ll be providing for guest towels. Would it hurt to buy a couple of new sets?

Is the mattress comfortable? A memory foam mattress topper can go a long way toward improving the comfort when you don’t want to rush out and buy a new mattress set this time of year.

Make it festive.

Spread the holiday cheer all the way to the guest room. Place a Christmas cactus, poinsettia, amaryllis, or a seasonal floral arrangement on the dresser. Turn on battery-operated candles in the bedroom and guest bath (avoid live flames). Hang some holiday decor on the wall, or wrap up the framed art on the wall to resemble a gift for an easy and festive accent.

You will also make them feel welcome by putting together a goodie basket. Gather up individually wrapped crackers, cookies, granola bars, mints, nuts, and candies. This little bonus helps those visitors who might want a late-night or early-morning snack.

Plan for next year

If you find that your house just doesn’t seem to fit any more, start looking ahead to where you will live next Christmas. Don’t spend another holiday “making do”. McGuinn Hybrid Homes builds energy-efficient, single-family homes and townhomes in the Columbia, SC, area. Our communities span a wide range of styles and sizes, from 1,506 to 4,128 square feet, single-level or two-story. We also have move-in ready homes to start the new year off right. Talk to us about finding the home that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Has the holiday spirit hit you yet? All of us at McGuinn Hybrid Homes are feeling it as we work with homeowners and in communities throughout the Columbia, SC, area. If you’re having trouble switching over to holiday mode, look for some hometown holiday activities to get you started. Here’s what’s happening around Lake Carolina and the Centennial area.

On Thanksgiving morning, get the turkey in the oven and head to the Lake Carolina Town Center for the Catch the Gobbler 5K Fun Run/Walk. You don’t have to pre-register. Just show up by 8:30 a.m., ready to work off some calories before the big feast.

There’s nothing like a local rivalry to get your heart pumping. Our local high schools have their Thanksgiving Day football match-ups. The Spring Valley Vikings take on the Richland Northeast Cavaliers, and the Westwood Redhawks battle the Blythewood Bengals. Whether or not you have high school students, a Thanksgiving Day game is a real spirit-booster!

Ready for some sparkle? Holiday Lights on the River is an annual spectacle that will surely spark your spirit. From November 30 through December 31 (except Christmas Eve and Christmas), venture over to Saluda Shoals Park East for a nightly show. More than 400 animated displays and a laser light show create a festival atmosphere. Toast marshmallows, make a craft, take a trip on the Saluda Shoals Park Train and down the Winter Wonder Ride Tube Slide. Santa makes a nightly appearance from December 14 to 23, before heading back to the North Pole for his annual ride.

On Saturday, December 8, Harborside Lights returns to the Lake Carolina Town Center. This annual holiday event features horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, and a festival of millions of twinkling lights. Roast marshmallows, make s’mores, and much on other refreshments. The kids will have fun with Sarah Dippity face painting, Balloonopolis, and the John Tudor Magic Show. The Carillon Carolers will roam through the area singing Christmas carols. Our families living at Centennial at Lake Carolina make this an annual part of their December calendar.

The Harborside Lights 5K and Kids Fun Run starts at the Lake Carolina Town Center at 5 p.m. on December 8. Wear your favorite Ugly Christmas Sweater or another outfit. Registration starts at 4 p.m.

If you’re ready for truly unique holiday gifts, the Columbia area hosts a variety of opportunities:

• The Sustainable Holiday Celebration and Market takes place on November 26, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 701 Whaley in Columbia. With so many works by local artisans, you’ll definitely find meaningful treasures. Local chefs will also serve up their culinary excellence, with a wine bar to complement the festivities.
• The Junior League of Columbia’s 33rd Annual Holiday Market presents four days of shopping (November 29-December 2) with more than 160 vendors. This is a major fundraiser for the JLC, and it kicks off with a black-tie preview on November 28, followed by Ladies Night Out on November 29. Head to the Cantey and Goodman Buildings at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in Columbia for a different shopping experience.

For some SERIOUS holiday shopping, browse the move-in ready homes now available at Centennial at Lake Carolina in Columbia. You could become part of this active lakeside community and take part in the festivities as a homeowner instead of a visitor! And this lifestyle is affordably priced from $219,900 for highly energy-efficient, single-family homes.

When you come for the holiday events at Lake Carolina, take a trip through our neighborhood. Then contact Jennifer at McGuinn Hybrid Homes to give yourself a gift like never before!

Have you been naughty or nice this year? Either way, you can’t expect Santa to bring you a new home for Christmas, but you can still be living in a new home by the time he comes down the chimney. With McGuinn Hybrid Homes’ move-in ready homes, you’ll be in your new place in time to light the Yule log in the fireplace. Buy a home that’s ready for the holidays, like one of these single-family homes for sale in Columbia, SC, and the surrounding cities and towns.

Centennial at Lake Carolina, Columbia, SC

McGuinn Hybrid Homes has a community within one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in northeast Columbia. Spend your holidays lakeside, finish up your shopping at the nearby Village at Sandhill Mall, and plan to spend New Year’s Eve at one of the country clubs close to Centennial at Lake Carolina.

913 Layton Way offers 1,700 square feet of finished living space, with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. A combination of style, convenience, and energy-efficiency, this single-level, Woodland floor plan features granite countertops, a garden tub in the master bath with a separate shower, 9-foot ceilings, 2-car garage, and energy efficient features that include tankless water heater, plus much more! $229,900

932 Layton Way showcases our popular Calhoun home design. Perfect for the first-time homebuyer or downsizer, this 1,506-square-foot home presents a welcoming first impression, with a brick facade and covered front porch. Step inside to a light-filled open floor plan, 3 bedrooms, and 2 baths, fully appointed and ready for your holiday decor. $219,900

Harbour Watch, Leesville, SC

Spend your holidays on Lake Murray when you choose to live at Harbour Watch. This gated community has a clubhouse where you can celebrate with your new neighbors and friends, as well as many more amenities and a picturesque location.

115 Southpark Place presents our spacious, 3,343-square-foot Aiken design. The brick home gives you plenty of room to entertain. The expansive open concept incorporates a great room, gorgeous kitchen, and dining room—surrounded by large windows that allow the sunshine to light up the interior. The master suite is situated on the first floor, with 3 more bedrooms upstairs, and a total of 2.5 baths. Boat owners will appreciate the deeded boat slip included with this home. $379,900

Spence Plantation, Lexington, SC

Are you looking for a lake home with plenty of space, indoors and out? Spence Plantation gives you an idyllic lifestyle in a gated community on Lake Murray. Every home we build here is designed for 4 to 6 bedrooms, and the design details you want—and deserve.

18 Due West Drive is distinctive from first glance. This stately brick home is designed in McGuinn Hybrid Homes’ Cleveland floor plan, with 4,361 square feet, 4 bedrooms, and 3.5 baths. Step inside and discover how these numbers translate to grandeur and exceptional design. Details like coffered ceilings, a massive owner’s closet, chef’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, and built-in bookcases enhance this executive home. $529,900

Pintail Point, Leesville, SC

McGuinn Hybrid Homes offers yet another fine community of new homes on Lake Murray. Luxury living is defined here by oversized lots and community amenities that take full advantage of the scenic location: lakefront clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and nature trails.

112 Pintail Lake Drive is waiting for you to bring your holiday spirit! Picture your lights and decorations on the front porch of this Craftsman-inspired Cleveland floor plan. With 3,387 square feet of stylish living space, you’ll have plenty to celebrate. This new construction home includes a first-floor guest suite. The owner’s suite upstairs provides the ideal retreat during the hectic holidays. This modified Cleveland also features a third suite—a total of 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. There’s nothing ho-ho-hum about this stunning luxury home. $379,900

Before Black Friday strikes, start your holiday shopping with McGuinn Hybrid Homes. All of these homes and more are move-in ready right now! Get in touch to learn more and plan your personal tour.

Halloween is filled with spooks and scary stuff. But it should all be in fun, not fear for the safety  of your children. You can stay sane and safe this Halloween by following these tips from McGuinn Hybrid Homes.

Consider safety when choosing a costume.

Some ideas seem great on paper but become hazardous when worn. Before you launch into creating or buying a costume, keep these Halloween safety tips in mind:

• Black needs bright accessories. If your little witch or ghoul needs to be dressed in black, be sure to sneak in some glow-in-the-dark or reflective tape and give each one a supply of glow sticks.
• Choose face paint over masks. Any mask could restrict the child’s view. At the very least, masks should be removed when walking and crossing the streets.
• Test the make-up. Prevent allergic reactions to face paint or other make-up. Before applying any of it to a child, apply a small amount to their arm a few days in advance and watch for signs of a possible problem.
• Avoid tripping hazards. The costume should fit properly. A long cape or flowing dress looks amazing but could cause a nasty fall.
• Test the walkability factor. Be sure that any costume you choose makes it easy for the child to walk and bend over without difficulty. We’ve seen too many adorable robots who fall down and can’t get up without help or retrieve candy that they’ve dropped.

Plan a trick-or-treat route.

Decide in advance where you and your family members will be hunting for treats.

• Choose neighborhoods with street lights and sidewalks. Avoid any areas where pedestrians aren’t easy to see. If you live in a new home community or subdivision, share the fun by visiting your neighbors!
• Stick to familiar places. Don’t stray beyond the areas where you know the people living there.
• No short cuts allowed. If you have older children who are trick-or-treating with friends, make sure they know they must stick to the route. Detours could lead them off track, into areas where they don’t belong.
• Choose a meet-up place. If you want to let some of your older children move on ahead, tell them when and where to meet you. Make sure they have a cell phone so they can check the time and stay in contact. And never allow anyone to trick-or-treat alone!

The bag stops here.

Your trick-or-treaters come home and immediately empty their bag of goodies. Before they launch into a sugar rush, follow some basic rules.

• Ration the rewards. It’s probably past bedtime, and the last thing you want is a child fueled with a sugar overdose. Give them each their choice of one or two pieces before bedtime.
• No goodies in the bedroom. As much as they might want to sneak away and horde their haul, this is a bad practice. First of all, kids should learn sharing. There are probably many items in that bag that they won’t want. Encourage swapping and sharing with other household members (of all ages). Secondly, a child with a candy cache in their room can be a dietary nightmare. They’ll eat it whenever they want, spoil their appetite, and likely leave bits and pieces where they become a melted, dust-covered mess.
• Inspect the treats. Examine every piece in the bag, looking for any opening in the wrappers that could signal the treat has been tampered with, or potentially contain germs. Also, discard all homemade treats, unless you know for sure who made them.

We love seeing everyone dress up at Halloween, including grown-up kids. We also want you to stay safe while enjoying the spirit of the holiday.

To all of our friends and family of homeowners, McGuinn Hybrid Homes wishes you a fun-filled Halloween!

Do you remember when the bathroom was strictly a utilitarian space? Homeowners didn’t invest time and money into making them more elegant—in part, because choices were limited. Not so, today! The bathroom has become an essential design feature, with many homeowners seeking that spa experience. Maybe the walk-through shower, freestanding soaker tub, and those stone vessel sinks you’ve been eyeing are out of reach for your price range, but McGuinn Hybrid Homes has some ideas for bathroom design on a budget.

#1. Determine and budget—and stick with it.

Before you set foot in a design center or home store, know your limits. How much can you afford? And when push comes to shove, where are you willing to budge on your budget? What are your priorities? If the tub is all important to you, shift some of your bathroom bucks from one feature to the cost of the tub.

#2. Start with color.

You might be surprised how the right color choice can spruce up the bathroom. For the price of a can of paint, you create the frame for your new bathroom. Soft colors are ideal for the “ah” of the spa you want, but don’t be afraid to go bold, if that’s your style.

#3. You can have your tub and shower, too.

You might want a separate shower and bathtub, but if that option is beyond your space and budget, consider a combination of garden tub with a showerhead. For a bit more luxury, add a tile surround with an inset shelf for soap, shampoo, and all the other incidentals. We include a garden tub and separate shower with tile surround, so if you’re buying your new construction home from McGuinn Hybrid Homes, this feature is already in your budget!

#4. Trim it out.

Accents like beadboard, shiplap, and wainscoting add texture and style to any room, so why not use this trim in your bathroom? With minimal wall space to cover, the cost is affordable.

#5. Top it off.

You have many choices of countertops for your bathroom vanities: solid surface, cultured marble, marble, laminate, and granite, for example. Your bathroom countertops aren’t subject to the heavy use as your kitchen countertops, so you can opt for the less expensive choices, like solid surface and cultured marble. Depending on the size of your vanity, you might not see a big price difference (or at least, not one that strains your budget). At McGuinn Hybrid Homes, however, we go for the granite. It’s included as a standard feature in our bathrooms.

#6. Look in the mirror.

A framed mirror adds a nice finish in the bathroom, and it’s an affordable way to upgrade the space. Choose a frame that reflects your personal style, from contemporary to coastal to vintage.

Every detail matters. When you want an award-winning, local homebuilder who appreciates that truth, talk to McGuinn Hybrid Homes. Our communities of new construction, single-family homes and townhomes are situated in prime locations around the Columbia, SC, region. We’re ready to build the home that suits your style, in our neighborhoods on on your own land. We make it affordable to get the home you want.

Hurricane Florence struck North and South Carolina on September 14. Residents watched the path of the life-threatening, category 4 storm, and braced for winds of up to 130 miles per hour and flooding from the pummeling rains. As a homebuilder, McGuinn Hybrid Homes had to prepare for Florence, protecting our employees and the homes under construction for our homebuyers.

As soon as we heard about the impending hurricane, the McGuinn Hybrid Homes’ crews jumped into action, following the protocol we have for these situations. Every construction site shifted from building to protecting the homes and the areas around them. A lot of these materials can become a dangerous projectile when powerful winds whip through, so we have to secure everything.

Homes that are in the early stages of construction—before the framing is done—are preparing to build, so it’s mostly materials that need to be protected. Our crews brace off and tie down everything. The materials can get wet; we give them time to dry before covering them up after the storm passes.

The middle stages present the biggest challenge when preparing for a storm. We’ve already begun to install the interior and exterior finishes. We could have many unprotected products inside the home. Our team boards up doorways and garages to secure the home.

Homes in the final stages are the easiest to secure. We can close them up as a homeowner would do, and trust that our construction practices weather the storm. Roof lifting is one of the biggest causes of damage during heavy storms. McGuinn Hybrid Homes incorporates hurricane clips during the framing process. These clips secure the roof to the walls at each end of every truss. The waterproof house wrap and envelope we install on the exterior of the home is the best defense against the storm. Unfortunately, hurricane winds can force water into areas that would not normally be permeated, so we can never be 100% resistant to it. ,We can only put 100% of our knowledge and effort into the best defense!

When Hurricane Florence hit the Columbia, SC, area, it had been downgraded to a category 1 hurricane. There was still flooding and wind damage, but overall, our preparedness paid off. Some flying debris broke glass here and there, and the heavy rains caused soil erosion, which happens after any major rainstorm.

Most importantly, everyone was safe. McGuinn Hybrid Homes’ team was on the job the very next day—cleaning up, making repairs, and so very thankful we safely, successfully navigated the emergency,

You can’t anticipate natural disasters, but you can plan ahead to be ready. Make sure your home is built to stay strong during a big storm. McGuinn Hybrid Homes makes sure that every one of our homeowners has this confidence. When you’re ready for a new townhome or single-family home, see what we have to offer. We build communities of new construction homes and townhomes in Columbia and the surrounding cities and towns, and McGuinn Hybrid Homes will also build a home on your land. We’re a local homebuilder, part of the Columbia community for 33 years. Come talk to us to make the move toward a safer, more energy efficient home for you and your family.

Can you feel the weather starting to change? The temperature and humidity have dropped. As we get deeper into fall, extend the use of your outdoor space, to capture to serenity, fresh air, and simple joy of the Columbia, SC, area when a little chill rolls in. As a local homebuilder,  McGuinn Hybrid Homes knows how to to make the most of your home (and lifestyle) any time of year.

Harvest the fall colors

Capture the feeling of the season by bringing an autumn color palette to your outdoor living space. Start with fall container gardens with crimson red, burnt orange, golden yellow, deep plum, and evergreen—asters, mums, petunias, pansies, flowering kale, ornamental cabbage, and succulents. Insert ornamental grasses to add greenery and height  For a little more fall feeling, place pumpkins and gourds, in various colors and shapes, around your porch and patio.

Show your fall colors with other outdoors accents. Change the cushions and pillows on your furniture to a seasonal theme. Toss some throws on the chairs to get cozy.

Spark some warmth

A crackling fire creates a cozy environment on your fall patio. If you don’t have a fireplace, add a fire feature—like a fire pit, fire bowl, or chiminea. Plan your sitting area near or around the fire. Keep your marshmallow-roasting tools and supplies close by so you can make s’more fun outside. Fill large jars with ingredients to make it easy to toast, roast, stack, and munch.

From a flame to flickers, spread candles around your outdoor living area. Set luminarias along the perimeter to shine soft light. Place candles of varying sizes in safe areas to infuse a cozy touch. LED candles give the same glow, and with a remote control, you can spark the flames without getting out of your chair.

Pump up your pumpkin pairing

Nothing says “fall” like pumpkins. Carved or not, these gourds represent a healthy harvest season. There are so many choices for pumpkins—colors, sizes, and shapes—as well as fresh and foam (so easy to carve and keep). Here are some ways to use pumpkins for your outdoor decor:

• Hollow out a pumpkin and insert a potted plant, like mums. Cluster your pumpkin pots and fill in spots with other pumpkins and gourds.
• Craft a topiary of pumpkins, winding a vine or garland of fall leaves around it. You can also paint a message or your house number on the pumpkin topiary.
• Use an awl to poke small holes in a hollow pumpkin—either a pattern, a word, or a letter. Place a battery-operated string of mini-lights inside the pumpkin, and push the tiny bulbs through the holes.

Every season in the Columbia area gives you different reasons to get out and enjoy this beautiful area. Whether you are exploring all the fun things to do or relaxing at home, your life takes you indoors and out. If you’re thinking about making a change where you live, look at McGuinn Hybrid Homes—our communities, floor plans for single-family homes and townhomes, new construction homes for sale near Columbia, and the choice to build on your land. Quality, energy efficiency, creativity, and a close personal connection are standard features. Get in touch and let’s get started!

From the very beginning 33 years ago, McGuinn Hybrid Homes has been a local homebuilder who appreciates the uniqueness of the region’s cities and towns, the lakes and parks, and the people who call it “home.” We understand that there is no “one-size-fits-all” for that perfect home. That’s why we build our Columbia communities to fit your lifestyle and budget.

For some people, a four-bedroom single-family home is the right choice, while others want a something smaller.  Maybe a lakeside location is preferred, or a quiet place in the Columbia countryside. A community with amenities adds a resort vibe to the lifestyle. And the peace of mind that comes with buying a warrantied, energy-efficient home presents an added value, right?

Mariner’s Creek

Mariner’s Creek is a community of single-family homes that will fit the first-time homebuyer and a growing family, with floor plans from 1,861 to 2,829 square feet of indoor living space. Live in Lexington, SC, near Lake Murray while being near I-20, I-26 and a short drive to Columbia, SC. Recreation is just as close with a variety of cultural events, theaters, festivals and the state museum in close proximity! The students in your family will benefit from the quality education provided by the Lexington One School District, which includes the highly rated Lake Murray Elementary School, where students test far above the state average according to Greatschools.org.

Let’s get moving on your new home. Start by looking at the floor plans at Mariner’s Creek  and we can talk about personalizing it for your style and needs.

Centennial at Lake Carolina

Does the image of your next home include a waterfront view? The Lake Carolina area is popular with lake-lovers—for fishing, boating, swimming, water sports, and an amazing view! McGuinn Hybrid Homes’ community, Centennial at Lake Carolina, provides the many advantages of living in a large, award-winning neighborhood with amenities that include its own swimming pool, park, and well-lit walking trails. Within Centennial at Lake Carolina, you have a smaller community and the privacy that affords. Our single-level, energy-efficient homes offer 1,506 to 1,700 square feet—perfect for the homebuyer who is just starting out or re-sizing their life.

Fall is a great time of year to move, and we make it easy with a selection of brand new construction homes available now at Centennial:

• 908 Layton Way: 1,700 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, $249,900
• 909 Layton Way: 1,506 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, $224,900
• 913 Layton Way: 1,700 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, $229,900
• 932 Layton Way: 1,506 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, $219,900

Each home features our outstanding energy-efficient features, so that your home isn’t just beautiful, but so smart!

Woodlake

Perfectly named, Woodlake provides wooded landscapes surrounding a scenic pond. You’ll experience the serenity of country living, with downtown Columbia just a short drive from home.

Woodlake’s amenities enhance the neighborhood’s appeal. The clubhouse with outdoor fireplace, swimming pool, playground, and tennis courts make it easy to plan a staycation, get together with family and friends, and build friendships.

We have two single-family homes that were recently completed in Woodlake, so you can move right in:

• 309 Bentwood Lane: 2,835 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, $269,900
• 311 Bentwood Lane: 2,355 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, $249,900

McGuinn Hybrid Homes has a portfolio of thoughtfully-designed floor plans for Woodlake, as large as 3,022 square feet, so we can build the one that reflects your dream.

Maximize the value of the right home in the right place. Columbia, South Carolina, offers a relaxed lifestyle all year-round, with the ideal balance of country living and urban amenities. Talk to McGuinn Hybrid Homes about our new home communities, floor plans, available homes, and the opportunity for us to build on your land.

On August 15, 1985, Wade McGuinn started a new stage in his life. He became a business owner. With more than three decades of experience behind him now, Wade is looking back and looking forward. As McGuinn Hybrid Homes celebrates 33 years of homebuilding, we asked Wade to give us a bit more history.

Why did you start the company?

I started my career selling new home construction as a site agent. I loved the work. I loved construction, and I wanted to do more than sell homes that were someone else’s ideas.

How many homes did you build back in the early years?

We started one at a time! In 1985, we built a total of 4 homes. I was working from my home, running the business from my dining room table—days, nights, and weekends.

In 2017, we produced 260 houses. That’s like building and selling a new home every workday of the year.

How many people do you employ now?

We employ 35 full-time and literally hundreds of trade partners and subcontractors that make our product possible. Our grading contractor and plumbing contractor started with me 33 years ago and they’re still part of our team.

Mike Kelly has been with us for 17 years, starting out as a project manager. Mike has handled just about every job in the construction process: customer service, production manager, vice president of operations and production and then president three years ago. He was recently promoted to COO.

Charles Moore has been part of McGuinn Hybrid Homes for 15 years.

My wife started this business with me. She’s now happily retired. And two of my three kids have spent a total of 18 years with the company.

How has homebuilding changed since 1985—both in construction and the things that people want?

Today, the sky is the limit. Most starter homes today exceed 2,000 square feet, even for a first time home buyer. People in the 80’s appreciated the basics in a 1,040-square-foot home. Now they’re looking for luxury with features we never had—or felt the need for—back then. But it’s exciting to explore the possibilities with so many choices available to distinguish a home for the buyer.

What has contributed to the success of McGuinn Hybrid Homes?

Unrelenting passion for excellence. It doesn’t matter whether I was building a few homes, one at a time, or overseeing the development of our communities and new homes. I started this company with the idea that I was going to build better and work smarter. I knew energy efficiency and affordability would be major factors, but I also new I couldn’t do it by compromising my standards for quality.

What does McGuinn Hybrid Homes do differently (and better) than the competition?

I think it’s the way we work with our customers. We’ve heard stories from some of them about builders who don’t return calls, delays, and fielding one excuse after another for cost overruns. We have a team here that is completely tuned into the needs of our customers. This is a huge investment for them, and we appreciate that. It’s always been my personal goal to give every homebuyer personal attention and respect, to work with honesty, accountability, and transparency.

Community outreach has always been important to McGuinn Hybrid Homes. How have you cultivated your desire to give back?

I was a founding member of Habitat for Humanity in the Columbia Metro market 33 years ago. I knew back then that being a builder was not just a responsibility to help others, but an opportunity. I’m currently leading a $9,000,000 capital campaign to endow Habitat into the next generation.

What’s ahead for the company? Are there new communities on the horizon, maybe expanding into different towns and cities?

God only knows! We have an energetic, youthful group of building professionals who like to talk about the potential for McGuinn Hybrid Homes. It’s gratifying to know that I have these dedicated people who are excited to come to work and bring their ideas. I think this company may span the whole southeast and maybe even go public one day.

Choosing the builder for your new home is a big decision. Wade and his team welcome the chance to show you what McGuinn Hybrid Homes can offer. Whether you want a new construction home or townhome in one of our communities near Columbia, SC, or to build on your land, we can guide you through the experience with the skill that comes from 33 years of experience. Contact us to see how you can count on us.

We all have our local favorites: the sports teams we cheer on to victory, the restaurant you always go to for your favorite dish, prepared just the way you like it, and the retail stores you shop at for the best deals. Whether it is your favorite food truck, bookstore, or your animal’s groomer, you certainly want to sing out their praises in “The State’s Best” Readers Choice Awards. And, if you’ve had a great experience with McGuinn Hybrid Homes, please help us become The State’s Best Builder.

Columbia’s Newspaper, The State, is once again asking its readers to chime in and vote for the best of the best in our area. Nominations for the categories were accepted from August 6 through August 19. Shortly after, we received notice that McGuinn Hybrid Homes was nominated in the Builders category, which means we were ranked in the Top 10! What a wonderful surprise and boost of confidence from everyone that voted for us.

Voting for the winners opens September 4 and ends on September 17. The winners of the State’s Best will be announced on November 4. If you want to vote for us, please click on this link. On the left, click “Services” and scroll down to “Builders” (it is a little more than halfway down the list). Then, click on “McGuinn Homes” to cast your vote. And after you’ve voted for us, please go support your other favorite local businesses in their categories. Since you can only vote one time per day in each category, please cast your vote for us as your favorite builder. You do have to vote in 30 other categories for your vote to count, so give your other local favorites some love!

When, Master Builder, Wade McGuinn launched our company 33 years ago, he wanted to help people experience the dream of homeownership. As a local homebuilder, Wade sought to build quality homes that were affordable. This vision is still the focus of McGuinn Hybrid Homes today. We are invested in energy efficiency, so every home conserves water and electricity. All of this while still providing a comfortable, healthy environment, and a lasting value.

He also established the Your Home, Your Way” process of giving our homebuyers an active role in the design and building of their home. From the very first home, Wade strived to accommodate the wants and needs of our customers. Many buyers have been pleasantly surprised that we not only say, “Yes,” but we deliver on that promise when other builders have said, “No.”

One realtor thanked us for patiently waiting for their buyer’s financial matters to be resolved. “I know that any other builder would have canceled that contract and sold the home to someone else.” The agent also added to Wade, “You are a thorough gentleman!”

We’ve won awards over the years, for energy efficiency, quality construction, and design. We are honored to be recognized by our industry for this excellence. Still, we’d love to know that we’re doing a good job for the people who trust us to build their home.

If we haven’t yet had the opportunity to demonstrate the quality of our new homes, townhomes and communities and the experience of working with our team, stop by or contact McGuinn Homes and we’ll happy to give you details, show you our homes, and talk about the high standards we’ve diligently maintained over the years.