Starting the journey to build your custom dream home is exhilarating and, yes, somewhat overwhelming! From finishes to fixtures, you might be wondering how to even get started. With over 1,400 completed homes under our belts, our team at RHS Custom Homes is glad to break down the custom home building process.
Whether you’re dreaming of wide-open layouts or a cozy, detailed design, knowing what to expect can make the entire process smoother and more enjoyable. So, let’s walk through the custom home-building process step-by-step.
The process of building a custom home
We’ve outlined ten stages that occur between you deciding to build a custom home and your move-in day. We hope they help you get a better feel for the process:
Step 1: Choosing your builder
While you might be tempted to pick a plot of land first, we actually recommend investigating your local home builders first. Often, builders will have recommendations and knowledge about the area they build in, and some may offer services for finding your ideal homesite.
Look for a builder who aligns with your style, has solid references, and communicates well. This partnership is pivotal, so trust your instincts and do your homework.
Step 2: Choosing your homesite
Every dream home starts with the perfect piece of land. Don’t stop at sufficient acreage; investigate your home’s views and street noise, too. Take time to explore various neighborhoods, consider factors like proximity to work or schools, and think about the type of lifestyle you want.
Here’s where already having a builder can also come in handy: your team can help you review information like environmental regulations, setbacks, variances, and other building factors that could affect your final home.
We also recommend finding out if there’s a homeowners’ association – and what their rules for a home’s size, appearance, or lawn might include.
Choose carefully: your chosen homesite sets the stage for what comes next.
Step 3: Settle on a budget
Before any work begins, establish a clear and realistic budget. This will guide every decision, from the layout to the finishes. Work with your builder and financial advisor to ensure you’re covering all potential expenses.
You might want to ask yourself questions such as:
- What is my realistic maximum budget? – Determine the absolute upper limit you’re comfortable spending. This will be your hard line, and will help your builder guide the rest of the process.
- What features are non-negotiable? – Identify your absolute must-haves, like high-end appliances, luxury finishes, or specific layouts. This can give you an idea of your ballpark.
- What could be scaled back or phased in over time? – Expect the unexpected: go ahead and figure out which aspects of the build can be simplified or postponed to manage initial costs.
- Are there any tax benefits or incentives for energy-efficient builds? – Sometimes you get a little money back for going green! Explore rebates or credits that could offset costs for eco-friendly or energy-saving additions.
Step 4: Finance your home
With a budget in place, it’s time to secure financing. Whether you’re taking out a construction loan or tapping into other funding sources, having your finances in order paves the way for a smoother build.
Like many builders, our team at RHS offers a basic guide to financing your custom home that can help you explore your options. We’re happy to guide the process for our clients, and most professional builders will have the expertise needed to assist you in financing.
Step 5: Designing a floor plan
This is where your vision truly starts to take shape – the fun part! Collaborate with your architects and designers to create a floor plan that matches your lifestyle and future needs. Think about flow, functionality, and how each space will be used.
Not sure where to start? RHS LLC offers professionally-designed home plans that our customers can completely customize. Your custom home builder may offer something similar to help you get your creative juices flowing.
Whether you’re aiming for a completely wheelchair-accessible layout or dreaming of a custom luxury oasis, your ideal home comes to life in the design phase.
Step 6: Choosing your finishes & fixtures
From countertops to cabinet hardware, these choices make your home uniquely yours. Dive into the fun of picking finishes that reflect your personal style while aligning with your budget and long-term needs.
Wondering what we mean here? Let’s break down a few basic finishes and features:
- Lighting: Lighting sets the mood and highlights key areas of your home. Choose fixtures like chandeliers, recessed lighting, or wall sconces to create the perfect ambiance and style.
- Plumbing: You can get creative with your plumbing fixtures, too. From freestanding tubs to touchless kitchen faucets that activate with a hand-wave, you can customize more than just the look of your plumbing.
- Flooring: The right flooring can tie a space together and withstand daily wear. Decide between timeless hardwood, durable tile, or cost-effective luxury vinyl that suits your lifestyle and design preferences. Have a love for eclectic flooring? Go artsy with ideas like a mosaic floor or a marbled epoxy floor. Or, go weird and embed items like a logo, seashells or pennies into a custom floor.
- Trim & molding: No matter your style preferences, trim elevates your home’s aesthetic. Crown molding, baseboards, and wainscoting can create elegance and a finished look in any room.
- Exterior finishes: First impressions start with your home’s exterior. Select from siding materials like wood, brick or natural stone. Some builders may offer specialty materials that add a layer of personality to your home, like limestone.
Step 7: Get started building
Once the plans and permits are ready, the real action begins. This phase includes everything from breaking ground to framing, electrical, and plumbing. Your vision starts taking physical shape as each layer is built.
Wondering how long home building takes? We explain how long it takes to build a custom home and the factors that could affect your timeline.
Step 8: Stay in touch with your team
Regular communication with your builder and project manager helps keep the project on track and ensures any questions or changes are swiftly addressed. This helps prevent surprises and keeps you informed.
Step 9: Post-build inspection
Before moving in, your builder will conduct a comprehensive inspection. This ensures everything meets safety and quality standards. Any necessary adjustments or fixes will be handled at this stage.
Step 10: Final walkthrough
Your home is almost ready! During the final walkthrough, go over every detail with your builder. Make sure everything is as planned, and address any last-minute touch-ups before the keys are yours.
Then, you’re free to move in! Congratulations, your custom home is complete.
Want to bring your custom home to life?
Creating your dream home is a thrilling adventure that’s all about transforming your ideas into reality. With the right team and a clear process, what starts as a blueprint becomes the perfect space tailored to your life.
Are you planning to build a custom home along the Florida-Alabama Gulf Coast? Look no further than RHS Custom Homes. With over 40 years of experience, we create unparalleled high-end custom homes with expert craftsmanship and elite customer service.
Our custom homes can be found from Pensacola to Gulf Shores and beyond. Check out our service area to see if we serve your area, then explore our photo gallery with some of our highlights.
Ready to embark on this journey? Contact us today to start building your dream home.
