The process of going through a custom-built home is a bit different than if you were to buy an already-built home. There are a quite a few additional steps and even a few hoops you are going to have to jump through in order to get to the finish line, so we wanted to provide a checklist of sorts to explain the process for those of you that have never going through the custom home building process before.
Vision and Budget
I am putting these two together because they play hand-in-hand during this process. First, you need to have a clear vision of what you want your home to be. Get your inspiration from visiting other homes, checking out home magazines, and spend some time surfing the web to get ideas that you can put down on paper with your team to design the home. Then you need to come up with a realistic budget that you have, so your team can so just how much of that “vision” they can make come true with your design ideas.
Create a Team
Notice I used the word “team” because that is exactly what you are going to need here. You need a solid team that will include an architect, builder, and designer. At the very least, that see your vision in the same way you do. If you do not have building experience, we highly recommend you hire a residential construction project manager. Or project consultant to give you another set of eyes to help guide you through the process. This would also be a wise choice for someone with a busy schedule. Because overseeing a project such as this is more or less a full-time job. You may choose to put the builder off at this point. Until you have finalized plans and can get a more accurate bid for the build.
Site Selection
Now that you have a vision, budget, and team, it is time to pick the location of the new home. Some people may put this at the top of the list, but I would prefer to have my team’s input in choosing the ideal lot for the vision that we are trying to create. And again, this is especially true if you have no construction experience. Your architect, builder, and project manager can help you find options that will work perfectly with the design of the home.
Conceptual Design
This is where your architect starts to put your vision down on paper with sketches of the home that incorporates your design ideas. You will be working very closely with the architect during this stage to refine the design until you are happy with everything. Some of the consideration you want to make during this part of the process are:
- Number and function of rooms you want in the home
- The natural flow between the rooms
- Integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces
Developing the Design
Once the conceptual design of the home is agreed upon. The architect will begin to draw up the formal plans of the home. At this stage, you will start to incorporate the finer aspects of the project. Such as specific materials uses, finishes, and architectural design details. The engineers for the contractor will be involved. To ensure the design is actually possible. As well as being able to meet local building codes and regulations. Depending on how the architect and builder work. You are more than likely also going to start to involve your interior design to start selecting appliances, fixtures, and other aesthetics.
Finalizing Plans and Permits
You will have to finalize your design plans before applying for the necessary permits to build the home. In most cases, the builder or architect will take care of the permits, but this could fall on you, but again, hiring a project manager can take this task off your plate for you. This can be a time consuming process, so try not to get too frustrated while the wheels of government are turning to have your project approved.
Construction Drawings and Contractor Selection
Once the permits are approved, the architect will supply the builder with the final and comprehensive blueprints for the design of the home. If you have not already chosen a final contractor or builder for the home, this is where you would start taking bids for the project.
Construction of the Home
The beginning of this process can be painstakingly slow, as the site is prepped for the build. This will also depend on if the land has to be cleared or it is a plot that is more or less ready for the build to take place. As this process plays out, either you or your project manager will be in touch regularly with the builder, including site visits, to check on the progress and approve how the build is proceeding.
Interior Design and Final Touches
As you get closer to the completion of the build, you will start to work in the finishing touches. It is where your designer comes in. It is time to start to talk about colors, countertops, lighting fixtures, appliances, flooring, cabinets, etc. A 3D virtual walkthrough is extremely advantageous during this stage. You can see exactly how the final product will look. You can easily make changes before having spent any money on these final touches.
Final Inspections
Once the home is completed, there will be a final inspection. To ensure the home has met all local safety and building standards. Assuming the home is up to code. You will do a final inspection of your own with the builder for any last-minute touchups. Or corrections that need to be made. Once everyone is in agreement that the home is completed, you finally get your keys.
Are you in the market for an Oregon custom-built home? Did you know that Better Build Now offers a wide array of managed residential construction services? Including a residential construction project manager. For more information about our construction services. Or, if you would like to speak to a member of our team, give us a call at 888-402-4180.