FAQ
Home Building
Q: I have land and want to build a home, what do I do next?
A: Make notes relative to the size, layouts and amenities you want in a home and seek out a reputable builder in your area. Ask for a meeting and a “budgetary” quote before you settle on a set of plans. I caution new homeowners to verify the new home will fall within your budget prior to the expense of a custom set of plans. Allow a week for a budgetary quote as every home is unique. Beware the builder that gives you a quote at the first meeting.
Q: I know the layout that I desire but how do I get a set of Plans?
A: Most builders have preferred architects that can take your concept and ideas and transfer them into a set of working blueprints. This is a process of drafts and reviews to finalize on the room sizes, layout and elevation view that you desire. The builder will assist and recommend changes through this process.
Q: Can I just buy a set of plans off the internet?
A: I suggest that you can find basic concepts on the internet but caution that rarely does a set of internet plans fully meet every detail of what you would like in a home. In addition, internet plans have to be sent to an engineer for review, modification to state standards and approval which adds cost to the initial outlay for the plans. To purchase a set of plans off the internet, modify and sending to an engineer can be costly. I prefer to work with a local architect from start to finish.
Q: What are the major costs that can affect the price of the home?
- Elevation and condition of the land (amount of tree removal and grading)
- Size of the home and footprint (square footage, single story versus two story)
- Exterior materials (brick/stone/cement board/vinyl)
- Interior details including bathrooms, flooring, cabinets, electrical and plumbing
Q: How long does it take to build a home?
A: After a complete set of plans are in hand and a contract signed, it typically takes six months to build a home. There can be delays due to bad weather but six months is the norm.
Q: How do I choose a builder? How do I know that I have found the right builder?
A: Research a builder that number one has good references but also look for an established builder with experience in your location/area of build. Review their website and ask for a meeting. If the first meeting does not go well you may want to look further as you will meet and communicate long and often throughout the process.
Q; What type of loan is most common?
A: The typical loan is a construction-perm loan where the homeowner only pays interest on the portion of the loan that has been used via the builder draw process. At the end of construction the homeowner will make the loan permanent for the full amount borrowed.