The Custom Build Process

There are a few different ways to go about building a custom home. Remember, the key word here is custom. By definition a custom home is a home designed to be built on a specific lot.

There are many homes that are built for a client from stock plans that builders, architects, or designers have already designed and built for others. There is nothing wrong with this approach, and it can sometimes save the client money on the design process. These designs can often be adjusted to customize them for other clients. That said; there are also some limitations to the design that go along with using a stock plan. The primary one being orientation on the lot for optimal energy efficiency and views, as well as floor plan limitations like room size constraints, juxtaposition of public and private areas, and specific building envelope restraints.

The client purchases a lot on which to build their home. This can happen with the client having chosen an architect/designer or builder beforehand. If the client has not already chosen either, they can now start interviewing architects and/or designers, as well as builders. The client will want to keep in mind that the relationship with the builder is going to be a long-term one. From the commencement of construction through the warranty period, it can be well over two years. If the builder is helping during the design process the relationship will be even longer. The same things that make any long-term relationship successful and fulfilling apply; communication, honesty, empathy, and compromise, among others.

There are a couple ways to start out. Some people will choose their builder and then work with the builder selecting who will draw the plans. Others will select their architect or designer first and then choose a builder to help with the design process, or wait until the plans are completed and have the project competitively bid by one or several builders. I have gone through the process in all of these ways. Choosing your builder first or choosing an architect/designer and then the builder are my preferences, as it pulls together the design/build team at the start. The builder can often facilitate the design process with his or her experience in the field and knowledge of value engineering for a more cost effective project. The build out time can be reduced because the builder has helped incorporate elements into the design that will make the construction process more efficient, thus reducing the construction loan interest. Some clients feel uncomfortable committing to a builder at the very beginning. They might feel that they have no influence on the pricing for the home at the end of the design process. Many homes are built using a competitive bid hosted by the owner or the architect/designer with great success. Whatever process the client has the most confidence in is the best way to proceed.

Please keep in mind that the design process is an evolution, not a revolution. Give your self enough time to assimilate all the information and details presented. You may go to sleep one night thinking everything is just right, like Goldilocks surmised, and wake up the next morning unsure if you like it or hate it. Design continues throughout the entire building process. Some elements continue to evolve all the way to the finish of the project. That’s why it is called a custom home.

Continued on Page 2

During the design process there are many elements considered, sometimes hundreds of elements. Try not to lose track of those elements with the help of your architect/designer and builder. Make notes on your copy of the plans and keep a file with notes and pictures or brochures of elements you like. As an example, you will usually do an electrical walk-through after the framing is complete and before the electrician starts wiring for outlets, lights and switches. The more thoroughly you examine and think through your lighting and power plans during design, the better prepared you will be when it is time for the electrical walk. I always tell people when designing the lighting to look at the plan room-by-room, thinking about what your traffic patterns will be to locate switches, and how you will live in each room to determine where the outlets and lighting should be.

Once the plans are completed and permitted, and a builder has been chosen, the fun starts and construction begins.

You should know how long the construction of your home is going to take. The builder should give you that time frame, and either give you a schedule or give you a periodic update of where they are in the building process. I give the client a copy of the construction schedule and any updates to it as the building progresses.

Before clearing the building pad have the surveyor stake corners of the house so you can confirm orientation. Also, walk the clearing area with the builder to ensure agreement on plants being salvaged, if they are to remain in place and protected, or where they will be transplanted temporarily or permanently.

It is important that you receive deadlines for selections that you need to make at the start of construction. Sometimes the selections are near the beginning of the process, like electrical outlets and any HVAC ducting located in the floor as well as plumbing valves for tubs, showers and faucets that will go in the walls. Typically cabinets, counter top thicknesses, and appliances need to be selected by the time the wall and roof framing is finished so the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical trades can have the specifications and shop drawings to accurately install everything in the walls and ceilings that will be trimmed or attached to at the finish end.

Visit the construction site as often as you can. The more discerning eyes there are looking at progress, the better the finished product will be. You may have questions or concerns along the way; you should get easy-to- understand and straight forward answers from your builder. If you live out of town and cannot visit the site, make sure the builder sends you pictures and schedule updates on a regular basis. When I have an out of town client I send this information weekly.

Upon completion of the project, take the time to do an orientation of the home with the builder. All the systems should be explained to you so you know how everything works. Make sure you receive all appliance and fixture documentation, organized so you can easily find the information when you need it.

There is enough information about the custom building process missing here to fill an encyclopedia, but if you assimilate most of this information you will have a good, basic understanding of what happens and why. Choosing a reputable builder will make the custom building process a satisfying experience.