How the Construction Process Works
Let’s picture the setting: You (and maybe your other half) have been saving for months or even years, trying to decide when is a good time to take the big step. Finally, you believe that you have saved up enough and the time is right to begin building a new home.
So what now?
Like with all construction projects, the building process will involve four main parties:
- The Owner = You
- The Designer/Architect
- The Contractor = Copeland Custom Homes
- The right financial institution
Determining who the Designer and the Contractor are a part of the steps listed below.
Step one: Knowing where you want to build. This involves researching for the best valued local real estate and securing it. As you probably know, land can be VERY expensive and should be calculated into your budget for your home. Be sure to check out available properties on websites like Zillow.com or Homes.com or a local real estate agent to see what options there are. Copeland Custom Homes will be glad to assist you with this step.
Step two: You will want to reach out to a designer. From there you can coordinate a meeting with them to discuss your home design and, for a fee, they will develop a set of plans for you. This step could take several weeks to get the plans exactly how you want them. Keep in mind that this set of plans may have to go through review with a civil engineer before they are approved. Some municipalities do not require an engineered stamped plan, but if they do, be prepared for the additional cost. Many customers start with an idea or an internet plan to start the process. Copeland Custom Homes will be glad to assist in discussing ideas and/or Internet plans with you and will assist in directing you to the right designer to meet your needs.
Step three: Once you have your plans it is time to set up meetings with potential home builders. Most people will meet with 2-3 home builders before deciding whom to hire, which is a good idea. After you meet with the contractor(s) they will develop an estimate of the house (based on plans, specifications and amenities) for you so that you can decide if they are the one that you want to go with. Once you have decided whom to hire as the contractor (AKA Copeland Custom Homes) then you will formally discuss an agreement with them and sign a binding contract.
Step four: Deciding on a financial institution for your construction loan and/or permanent financing. Actually, this step can be started at any time. I would recommend starting this early in the process since it can be a “longer than you think” process. Copeland Custom Homes will be glad to make recommendations and to assist you with this step.
Once the contract has been signed, then the contractor will secure building permits with the city or county in order to begin construction. Once the permits are obtained and the financing is in order, then the building process can begin.
The contractor will take the necessary steps to complete the project and will inform you of the status, issues, and changes along the way. The house generally moves through phases that are divided up between areas such as: the foundation, framing, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) installation, specialties, and trim out. The contractor usually prefers you to come out during each of these phases of the project so that you can understand how the building process is going. Changes by the owner are quite common during construction. The Builder should be open and easy to work with if the changes are within reason. However, changes could cause additional costs and/or delays.
In Summary:
At Copeland Custom Homes, it is our goal to make this entire process as enjoyable and stress free as possible. We believe, at the end of the day, that every home construction project should be a win/win for us and for the customer.
Has your building experience been different? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!
“We are not just your builders, we are your neighbors!”