What to Expect When Building a Custom Home

The journey of creating your dream home is full of decisions leaving many people wondering what to expect when building a custom home. This exciting time requires planning, patience, and fine attention to detail. Knowing what to expect throughout your build not only makes the process smoother, but also gives you more peace of mind and confidence in your decisions. We’ll cover all the key stages of having your custom home built, and what to expect along the way.

Financing

Unless you’re able to pay cash for your build, you’ll need to apply for a new construction loan to begin the process of building a custom home. We are happy to provide a list of preferred lenders that you can work with to secure your financing. Most construction loans have the option to convert to a permanent (conventional) mortgage once the build is complete. We recommend working with a local lender that is familiar with local building practices and expenses.  

Initial Planning

You may be able to envision your dream home, but planning for your build requires careful preparation. The most important step of your journey will be to choose a reputable custom home builder. Your builder will be with you every step of the way: from choosing a location, designing architectural plans, selecting finishes, obtaining permits, construction, and the final touches on your home. When your builder understands your vision and expectations, your dreams can become reality.  

Design Phase

Once you’ve chosen your builder and secured property, it’s time to bring your designs to life. During the design phase, you and your builder will review and refine floor plans, select materials, and make decisions about the layout and architectural elements of your home. Expect to spend a lot of time communicating with your builder during this phase, which ensures that everything is being designed in accordance with your specifications.

Permitting and Approvals

Before construction can commence, permits will need to be applied for and approved from the governing authorities. This could be the city, county, or zoning office, and can vary depending upon your location and scope of your project. Your builder will be an advocate to help you through this process, and you can expect to fill out and sign paperwork to apply for the necessary permits. Once they’ve been approved, your home will be ready to enter the construction phase.

Construction

With permits in hand, construction can finally begin. This stage of your home’s build usually begins with site preparation, including any land clearing or leveling that needs to be done. Once the dirt work is complete, the foundation will be poured, and your home will begin its formation from the ground up. As construction progresses, you’ll witness your home taking shape – from framing and roofing to electrical and plumbing work. Expect to visit the construction site often during construction and keep ongoing communication with your builder to address any questions or concerns that may arise.

Inspections

Your builder should be completing routine inspections throughout your home’s construction to ensure that the build is moving in a quality and timely manner. Your lender may also require an inspection at the time of your home’s completion to ensure that the structure is sound, and that the electrical and plumbing work is safe and functional.  

Final Walkthrough and Closing

Once your home is complete, you’ll be able to conduct a final walkthrough of your new home. This is an opportunity to identify any issues or concerns before closing. Once everything meets your expectations and satisfaction, it’s time to close on your property and take ownership of your new, custom-built home.

Build with Willmark Custom Homes

From initial design to final touches, Willmark Custom Homes will help bring your dream home to life. Choose from one of our designs, or let us help you create a custom design build according to your specifications. We’ll be with you every step of the way throughout the creation of your custom home. Contact us today to begin your build, and let us help you navigate each stage of custom-home creation.