FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions (How It Works)

1. Which product is right for me?

– Garden Suite — ideal if you need a secondary dwelling on your property for family or rental income.
– Mini-Hotel — perfect for establishing a business and generating revenue.
– Open Space Villa — for building a prestigious primary residence or a high-yield rental property.

2. What's the difference between Base / Prime / Pro?

– Base — offers engineering precision and A+++ comfort without unnecessary extras.
– Prime — features premium materials and components with superior quality, Net Zero Ready.
– Pro — provides maximum autonomy and Net Zero capabilities: technology you'll be proud of.

3. Can the layout be customized?

Yes, within engineering limitations, we can tailor it to your lifestyle.

4. How much does it cost?

Our prices are transparently listed on our website. We believe in honest pricing, free from inflated figures, deceptive discounts, or marketing gimmicks. You'll only see the actual cost.

5. I own a lot. What's next?

You'll undergo a Pre-Survey. This essential step helps us understand the specifics of your land to determine the optimal construction approach.

6. I don't own a lot. Can you help me find one?

Yes, but only for Mini-Hotel investment projects that include management and profitability. This is a limited offering.

7. What is a Pre-Survey?

It's an engineering analysis of your lot, evaluating all factors that impact actual construction.

8. Why is it necessary?

To avoid unnecessary expenses. It identifies limitations, risks, and opportunities before your project officially begins.

9. Why is there a fee for it?

Because it involves genuine engineering work. You receive a comprehensive document that empowers you to make informed decisions.

10. What's included?

– Zoning and restriction analysis
– Terrain and risk assessment
– Permissible building footprint layout
– Recommendations for house placement
– Engineer's and permitting team's conclusion

11. I already have a Survey. Does it replace the Pre-Survey?

No. A Survey is a topographical survey; a Pre-Survey is a strategic analysis.
If your existing Survey is:
– less than 5 years old and in DWG format → we can use it
– more than 5 years old or only in PDF format → a new one will be required

12. Can I opt out of the Pre-Survey?

No. We either conduct the full process, or we do not undertake the project.

13. Is a Survey still needed?

Yes, but at a later stage. The Pre-Survey determines if it makes sense to proceed with your project at all, potentially saving you up to $10–15K.

14. What will I receive?

– An exact price
– A clear scope of work
– Realistic timelines
– A house configuration specifically designed for your lot

15. Are there any discounts?

No. We don't inflate our prices by $1 million just to "discount" $300K. If a home costs $700,000, you'll see that precise figure upfront.

16. Can I visit the showroom without a Pre-Survey?

Without understanding your lot, there's no specific basis for discussion. We value your time, as well as ours.

17. What will I see in the showroom?

You'll experience facades, finishes, roofing, windows, interior treatments, and engineered solutions. You can compare, choose, and feel everything that will be part of your home.

18. Will a designer be available?

Yes. Your dedicated project designer will guide you through the planning and selection phase.

19. Can I make individual selections?

Absolutely. You'll customize everything within your chosen level: Base, Prime, or Pro.

20. What about ceiling heights?

Ceilings range from 9 feet to 11 feet, eliminating the "low ceiling" effect, especially with our panoramic windows.

21. What's with the roof? Why flat?

A flat roof isn't "cheaper"; it's smarter:
– Reduces heat loss
– Simplifies maintenance
– Ready for Solar Roof integration
– Minimizes external noise
Commercial buildings often use flat roofs because they prioritize cost-efficiency and functionality.

22. What's included in the contract?

– Fixed cost
– Scope of work
– Warranties
– Timelines
– Separate section for permits

23. What's the down payment?

10% + a fixed amount for permits ($3,500 or more, depending on the project). All transactions are processed via Cloudpermit.

24. What warranties do you offer?

– Up to 30 years on structure and materials
– Direct warranties from each supplier
– All warranties are registered in your name
– In Ontario, additional Tarion warranty (7 years) applies

25. Who handles the permits?

We do, completely. This is managed through Cloudpermit, with full access for you to track progress.

26. What's the cost and timeline for permits?

Costs range from $3,500 to $15,000 (depending on the project), plus official municipal fees. Timelines average 3–8 months, varying based on the lot and required documentation.

27. Can I track the process?

Yes. The entire process is transparent: you can see who submitted what, when, and the associated costs.

28. Who constructs the home?

Our dedicated team operates under the VIGO BUILD OS standard. All processes are digitized for efficiency and quality control.

29. How long does construction take?

On average, construction takes 3–4 months after all permits are secured.

30. What type of foundation is used?

We select the optimal foundation for your lot, which may include:
– Helical piles (efficient, environmentally friendly, fast, and reliable—used even for bridges and structures on water)
– Combined options
The final decision is made during the Pre-Survey phase.

31. What engineering systems are included?

– Radiant floor heating
– Ventilation with heat recovery
– Humidity control systems
– Air conditioning optional (by request)

32. What is the VIO system?

It's a climate ecosystem designed for optimal comfort and efficiency:
– Freon-free
– Silent operation
– Warm surfaces
– Controlled humidity
– Integrates with Solar Roof, Smart Glass, and VIGO PRESENCE

33. Do you manage properties after construction?

Yes, we offer property management services exclusively for homes we've built, limited to three projects per year. All details are discussed individually.

34. Where do you operate?

Across Canada: British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and other regions.

35. I'm abroad. Can this be managed remotely?

Yes. The entire process—Pre-Survey, showroom visits, and contract signing—can be handled remotely via Zoom and our digital platforms.

36. Do you assist with financing?

Yes, through our network of licensed partners.

37. Can I just purchase a home kit (Kit-set)?

No.

38. Where can I see your homes?

– We have ongoing projects for the Princess Margaret Lottery (annually)
– Hundreds of completed projects across Canada
– If this isn't sufficient proof, we have nothing further to add.

39. Who exactly is VIGO HOUSE?

VIGO HOUSE is a Canadian developer and integrator specializing in income-generating properties. We build modern homes, Garden Suites, and mini-hotels with Net Zero capabilities, green technologies, pre-cut material production, and digital management. We're part of the ANAR architectural alliance, which unites industry leaders in facades, windows, climate solutions, and investment property management.
You're not just getting a company; you're gaining an entire ecosystem where every detail is controlled and optimized.

40. Do you build outside of Canada?

Yes. We expand into regions that value Canadian engineering and collaborative partnerships.
– Turks and Caicos — we are actively developing projects and are open to further discussions.
– Mexico — market entry for the Riviera Maya (Cancun, Playa del Carmen) is scheduled for late 2025.
– Australia — market entry is planned for 2026.
– USA — no. This is a strategic decision on our part. We choose to build in countries that are open to cooperation, not those imposing trade barriers.