Frequently Asked Questions

Over the past 25 years these seem to be the most frequently asked questions regarding custom home building. Please feel free to contact us with other questions you have regarding any type of construction.

What are the benefits of custom building my home?

The most obvious reason for custom building your home is that it will be truly customized to suit your vision of the perfect home. The most successful custom homes are created by people who have a good understanding of what they desire, need, and expect in a home and who are unable to find these things in an existing property. Our goal is to work closely with our clients from the initial design process to identify their specific needs and desires and to make those things a reality through the building process.   Back to top.

How long will it take to build my home?

Obviously the length of time to construct a home varies with its size and the details involved. Generally speaking, a 2500 square foot home will be completed in approximately five months. Some of our larger projects of 5000 square feet or more have been completed in as little as seven months.  Back to top.

Do I need to own my land or lot before I decide to custom build?

It is most customary for our company as the builder to purchase the home site as part of the contract to build. We prefer to work with our clients in the selection of the site as this may greatly affect the design of the home. Your lender's requirements should also be considered as to the amount of equity they may require; however, a custom built home normally establishes a sufficient amount of initial equity.   Back to top.

Will a custom home cost me more than the purchase of an existing home?

Not only does a custom home allow our owners the freedom of style and design, it also allows freedom as to certain costs. Custom does not necessarily mean more expensive. It simply means choice. For our clients who have named budget as a primary concern, we encourage them to limit their "wish list" to those items they feel are absolute priorities. A custom built home also saves the cost of realtor fees which are normally six percent of the sales price of a home.   Back to top.

Is it true that a custom built home always exceeds the planned costs?

There are two basic methods that contractors use in custom building. The turn key method means that the builder gives the buyer a set price for the entire project that is all inclusive. This means that our company accepts the risk involved in completing the project on budget. Therefore, if the price of materials or labor rises during the construction period, those costs are not passed on to the buyer. With the turn key method, the buyer only affects the final sales price with changes or additions to the project or by exceeding budgets defined in the contract. However, the builder usually charges a higher rate on changes to the project as these affect the completion date of the project and the builder's profitability.

The cost plus method refers to a contract to build wherein the builder is paid a percentage of the entire cost of the project (usually 12 to 15%). Buyers who rate design amenities and choice as top priorities usually prefer this method as it allows the homeowner to share in the creative processes that occur during construction. Our company will provide an estimated budget plan that will allow the homeowner to track costs and avoid costly surprises.  Back to top.

What do I get to pick out and how much can I spend?

The items that the homeowner is responsible for choosing are often referred to as "budget items." These include items such as carpeting, light fixtures, flooring, exterior materials, cabinetry, etc. During the design process we may ask you to visit various suppliers or a model or spec home. This will help both parties determine a reasonable budget for specific categories. Some clients prefer that our design team make these selections for them while most find this to be the most exciting aspect of the process. Our company works very hard to make sure that our clients are not surprised or disappointed in making these important selections. It is very important that a home buyer be very aware of budget constraints when choosing a builder.

Our company also offers design services or we would be happy to recommend other area designers.  Back to top.

How am I guaranteed against mechanics' liens?

Mechanics' liens have often been a concern for custom build projects. Our company disburses all payments to subcontractors and suppliers through a Title Agency. The agency works as a "watch dog" over the project, ensuring that the amount of disbursements is in line with the percentage of work completed. They also require lien waivers be signed. Our company has been in business for 24 years and will be happy to provide a list of references.   Back to top.

How can I be assured of quality in my home?

We truly believe that we employ the best subcontractors in the industry that are all committed to longevity in the business. We not only adhere to stringent building codes, we also offer a written Builder's Warranty.  Back to top.

Where do I start?

Many of our clients come to us with nothing more than a single magazine picture. Some have folders full of snapshots and a lengthy "wish list." Others have viewed one or more of our "spec" houses that have required some modifications. Whatever the situation, we find the design process to be just as exciting as move-in day. This time period allows the builder to identify the homeowner's style and budget; two of the most important aspects of custom building. Generally, after an initial meeting, a rough draft of a floor plan is drawn and an initial budget is provided. The homeowners are then asked to spend a few days or weeks reviewing it. This process may repeat itself several times until both parties are satisfied with the final plans and budget numbers.  Back to top.