In this episode of Uniqueness… “Built-In”, Mike sits down with longtime friends and real estate professionals, Perry and Wynne Moore, Broker Associates of Allie Beth Allman & Associates in Southlake, Texas. Between Mike’s 30-plus years building custom homes and the Moores’ expertise in luxury real estate, the conversation dives deep into what it takes to make smart decisions when building, buying, or selling a luxury home.

A Relationship That Started with Dirt

Mike and Wynne first met back in the early 2000s, when Wynne worked in development and land management. Their experience working in the same neighborhoods laid the groundwork for a friendship built on a shared appreciation for craftsmanship and community. Over the years, Wynne transitioned from development into real estate, motivated by a simple but powerful belief — homeowners deserve honest representation and someone who truly understands both the home and the process.

Perry’s path to real estate took a different turn. A former builder himself, he jokes that when the window opened, he “jumped right through it.” His background in construction gives their clients a distinct advantage: an agent who sees the bones of a house — the craftsmanship, layout, and long-term value that others may overlook.

Finding the Right Builder, Lot, and Team

If there was one message repeated throughout this episode, it’s this:  

You need the right team before you make the first move.

Wynne and Perry often remind clients that every great home starts with the right location — but not every piece of land is the right fit. Before buying a lot, they advise clients to involve their builder early. “You may love a lot,” Wynne says, “but without understanding the slope, restrictions, and build costs, that property can quickly turn into a budget nightmare.”

The Moore’s encourage families to interview at least three builders. “After three, it all starts to get complicated,” Wynne adds. Chemistry, communication, and financial transparency matter just as much as craftsmanship. “You've got to really like your builder,” she laughs. “It’s kind of like a marriage.”

Why the Builder’s Resources Matter

Mike reinforced a key point made in the first episode — a professional builder doesn’t just build the home; they have the resources to stand behind it. When you’re investing in a custom or luxury home, you’re not only hiring a contractor; you’re building a partnership. That includes trusted trade partners, a stable financial base, and the ability to handle problems the right way when they arise.

Avoiding the Most Common Home Building Mistakes

Together, they highlighted two mistakes they see far too often:

1. Buying a lot before consulting your builder. What looks flat and perfect may require major retaining walls, utility extensions, or drainage fixes that blow up the budget.

2. Drawing house plans before knowing what they’ll cost to build. Architects design what you ask for — not necessarily what your budget allows. This means your plans may never be built.

The fix is simple: find your builder first. A seasoned builder acts as the project’s “quarterback,” coordinating between your realtor, architect, and designer so that every decision aligns with your budget and vision.

Preparing for Resale: The Long Game

Even in the excitement of new construction, Perry and Wynne keep resale in mind. They encourage clients to avoid over-customizing beyond the neighborhood’s value and to think about how design choices will age over time. “It’s okay to build what you love,” Perry says, “but remember — someone will own this home after you. Keep it livable and marketable.”

For homeowners planning to sell, their advice is refreshingly straightforward: start with paint, fixtures, and curb appeal. Clean the front door, refresh the flower beds, and fix the small things before they become inspection issues. And, as Wynne adds, “Minimize your belongings. Let the buyers imagine their own lives in your home.”

Design Trends Worth Knowing

Buyers today are looking for spaces that work smarter, and cleaner. The Moore’s mention the rise of catering kitchens or “hidden prep spaces” — secondary kitchens tucked behind the main one, complete with an extra dishwasher, oven, and sink.  

“People love the look of clean counters,” Wynne says, “but they still need a place for all the real cooking.”

For remodels, Perry recommends focusing on areas that deliver real value: kitchens, primary baths, and master suites. Wynne agrees, noting that, “If you’ll be in your home for five years or more, make updates you’ll enjoy. If you’re selling soon, work with a designer to make choices that add value — not just cost.”

Teamwork Makes Every Difference

The episode closed with a reminder that building or buying a custom home isn’t a solo effort — it takes a coordinated team. From the realtor who knows the local market, to the builder who understands construction science, to the designer who makes the details flow — each role matters.

As Mike summed up, “When you buy an existing home, you’re spending your money on what someone else thought was important. When you build a custom home, you’re spending your money on what you think is important.”

That difference — the ability to design with intention and confidence — is what makes Uniqueness... truly “Built-In.”

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