Buying a home can be quite the journey. There are a million things that you need to consider. There’s a mile-long list of things that you don’t know you don’t know.
Many folks assume that buying or building a custom home only adds to the complication factor. To be certain, there are a ton of considerations. But they’re really not more complicated:
They’re just different.
Here are some of the common things we hear from folks considering their first custom built home:
I need land first.
Yes and no. You may have your heart set on waterfront property or have invested in a lot somewhere that you like. But as builders, we see vacant lots all over the region, and can often find you a suitable lot in a growing community. The design of your house is more important.
It’s going to be harder to get a loan.
If you qualify for a mortgage, most lenders don’t care if you’re buying an existing home or are building custom. A home loan is a home loan. We’ve helped countless clients navigate the finances of building a custom home.
It takes too long.
When you choose custom, your house is not move-in ready. That’s true. But once you’ve nailed down a plan and selected a lot, things start moving pretty quickly. The only things that slow the process down are changes you may decide to make in the middle of the build. We’re completely transparent during the building process, and you’ll have the chance to walk through with us throughout the construction. We’ll establish timelines and benchmarks towards completion, and barring act-of-god weather, we’ll meet them.
I don’t know anything about design or architecture.
We do. If you’re looking for a sunlit kitchen, we can steer you in the right direction when it comes to windows and the orientation of your house. If you want a huge walk-in closet right off of the master bath, we’ll help you decide the best place for the doors.
I’m going to get stuck with a design or floor plan.
We certainly have a ton of styles and designs that have made our clients happy over the years, and you’re welcome to borrow from them. But the final design choices are yours. You may choose a floor plan but would prefer brick over wood siding for the exterior. Not a problem. You may prefer an office as opposed to a larger garage. Not an issue. We’ll offer tips and suggestions, but the ultimate design is up to you.
I can’t afford a custom home.
Price is relative when it comes to any home. When you factor in size, details, materials, appliances and the like, the price range is all over the map. You don’t have to be filthy rich to own a custom-built home. We work with budgets of all sizes.
Part of our mission is to be your partner in building your dream home. It’s our job to educate you about the process and walk you through your decision, options, and questions. We’ve been filling in the blanks for clients since 1996.
Ask us anything.