Building a custom home is an exciting endeavor, but it also comes with many questions and considerations. One of the most common things potential homeowners wonder about is how long building a custom home takes. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that can influence the timeline of a custom home construction project and provide insights into the typical duration of each phase. Whether you’re a prospective homeowner or simply curious about the process, this guide will help you gain a better understanding of the time it takes to bring your dream home to life.
Phase 1: Design and Pre-Construction
Before you begin your custom home project, there are a few important tasks you need to complete:
- Establish a budget: Determine the total amount you can afford to spend on your custom home. It’s important to be realistic and transparent with yourself and your team about your budget to avoid financial difficulties or disappointments later on.
- Assemble your team: Your primary team members will include the architect, builder, and interior designer. Conduct thorough research to find professionals or firms that align with your requirements and preferences. Keep in mind that high demand in the home construction industry may result in booked schedules, so plan accordingly and start the process early. When selecting an architect, understand their fee structure and incorporate those costs into your budget.
By completing these tasks, you will lay a solid foundation for your custom home project and ensure a smoother journey ahead.
Discovery- can take 2 to 4 weeks
The discovery step is a crucial part of the design and pre-construction phase in building a custom home and should be considered when you are trying to determine how long building a custom home takes. During this stage, homeowners work closely with their architect and design team to articulate their vision, goals, and requirements for the project.
It involves detailed discussions and brainstorming sessions to understand the homeowner’s lifestyle, preferences, and specific needs. The discovery step helps establish a solid foundation for the design process by ensuring that the architect and design team have a clear understanding of the homeowner’s expectations, which will guide the subsequent phases of the custom home construction project.
Programming- can take 1-2 weeks
Programming is an essential part of the architectural design process when building a custom home, and can impact how long building a custom home takes. It involves clearly defining the scope, features, purpose, and functionality of the home. By communicating your vision through words and pictures, you can effectively convey your needs, wants, and preferences to your architect. Setting up accounts on platforms like Houzz and Pinterest and exploring design publications and blogs can provide inspiration and help you gather examples of what you like or dislike. It’s crucial to be upfront about your budget during this phase, as the cost of building a custom home can vary significantly, with finishes accounting for up to 30% of the budget. Ensuring everyone’s expectations align regarding the materials and finishes you’d like to use is key to a successful project.
Schematic Design: can take 6 to 10 weeks
The schematic design step is a crucial phase in the process of building a custom home. During this stage, the architect translates the homeowner’s vision and requirements into initial design concepts. It involves creating rough sketches and floor plans to explore different layout options and design possibilities. This step typically takes around 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project and the level of collaboration between the homeowner and the architect which clearly will impact how long building a custom home takes. The schematic design phase sets the foundation for the overall design direction and helps determine key elements such as the home’s size, layout, and aesthetic style. By working closely with the architect during this stage, homeowners can gain a clearer understanding of how their dream home will take shape. Understanding the duration of the schematic design step is essential in determining how long building a custom home takes, as it marks an important milestone in the overall construction timeline.
Design Development: can take 4 to 6 weeks
The design and development stage is a crucial phase in the process of building a custom home, and it significantly impacts the overall timeline and how long building a custom home takes. During this phase, the initial design concepts are translated into more detailed and refined plans. The architect works closely with the homeowner to finalize the layout, select materials, and determine the aesthetic style of the home. This stage typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project and the level of collaboration. The design and development phase plays a vital role in shaping the overall construction timeline as it sets the foundation for the subsequent steps. It is essential to allocate sufficient time and attention to this stage to ensure that the final design aligns with the homeowner’s vision and requirements, ultimately influencing how long building a custom home takes.
Pricing: this typically overlaps with other steps
Pricing your custom home involves determining the overall cost of the project, including materials, labor, and any additional expenses. During the pricing phase, you will work closely with your builder and potential subcontractors to gather detailed estimates for each aspect of the construction. It’s important to be transparent about your budget and communicate your expectations clearly to ensure that the pricing aligns with your financial plan. Keep in mind that the cost of building a custom home can vary based on factors such as the size, complexity, and location of the project. By carefully considering pricing during the early stages, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your dream home is within reach.
Permitting: can take 8 to 16 weeks or even longer
The permitting step is a crucial part of the custom home construction process and can significantly impact how long building a custom home takes. Obtaining the necessary permits from local government authorities ensures that the construction project complies with building codes, zoning regulations, and other legal requirements. The duration of the permitting process can vary depending on factors such as the location and complexity of the project. It typically takes around 8 to 16 weeks or even longer. During this time, the architect, builder, and other professionals involved in the project work closely with the permitting authorities to submit the required documentation, address any concerns or revisions, and obtain the necessary approvals. It’s important to allocate sufficient time for the permitting step to avoid delays in the overall construction timeline and ensure a smooth progression of the project.
Phase 2: Construction
Site Excavation and Preparation: can take 6 to 10 weeks
During the site excavation and preparation step of building a custom home, extensive work is done to prepare the construction site for the upcoming project.
This crucial phase involves clearing the land, leveling the site, and making necessary adjustments to ensure a solid foundation for the home. Excavation may involve the removal of trees, rocks, and debris, as well as grading the soil to achieve proper drainage. The duration of this step can vary based on factors such as the size and complexity of the project, but it typically takes around 6 to 10 weeks. It’s important to note that the site excavation and preparation phase is a critical early step in the construction process and significantly influences how long building a custom home takes.
Foundation and Framing: can take 12 to 16 weeks
The next step in building a custom home is the foundation and framing. This phase is crucial as it sets the structural framework of the house. It involves pouring the foundation, constructing the walls, and installing the roof. The duration of this step can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, but it typically takes around 12 to 16 weeks. During this phase, the home begins to take shape, and homeowners can start visualizing their dream home becoming a reality. Understanding the duration of the foundation and framing phase is essential in answering the question of “how long building a custom home takes.”
Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC: can take 12-14 weeks
During the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC step of building a custom home, the essential systems that ensure comfort and functionality are installed. This phase typically takes around 12 to 14 weeks and plays a crucial role in determining how long building a custom home takes. Skilled professionals work diligently to connect the plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, ensuring they meet the required standards and codes. The plumbing system includes installing pipes, fixtures, and fittings to provide water supply and drainage, while the electrical system involves wiring the entire house to power lights, appliances, and other electrical components. The HVAC system is responsible for regulating temperature and maintaining indoor air quality. This step requires careful coordination and expertise to ensure that these vital systems are installed correctly and function seamlessly, setting the stage for the next phases of the construction process.
Insulation and Drywall: can take 8 to 10 weeks
Insulation and drywall installation is a crucial step in the construction process of a custom home. During this phase, the walls and ceilings are insulated to improve energy efficiency and soundproofing. Insulation helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature by reducing heat transfer while also minimizing noise transmission between rooms. After insulation, drywall is installed to create a smooth and even surface for painting and finishing. Drywall not only provides structural support but also acts as a fire-resistant barrier. Skilled professionals meticulously install and finish the drywall to ensure a high-quality and seamless appearance. The duration of insulation and drywall installation can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project but typically takes around 8 to 10 weeks. This phase marks a significant milestone in the construction timeline, bringing the custom home one step closer to completion.
Interior Finishes: can take 14 to 24 weeks
The interior finishes phase is a crucial step in the construction process of a custom home, and it significantly impacts how long building a custom home takes. During this phase, all the elements that contribute to the aesthetics and functionality of the interior spaces are installed. This includes flooring, cabinetry, countertops, fixtures, lighting, and more. Each detail requires careful consideration and coordination to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing design. The duration of the interior finishes phase can vary depending on the size, complexity, and level of customization desired by the homeowner. It typically takes around 14 to 24 weeks to complete. Factors such as the availability of materials, the number of rooms, and the intricacy of the design can influence the timeline. Homeowners are often presented with numerous choices and decisions during this phase, such as selecting materials, finishes, and colors. Taking the time to carefully plan and make these selections can impact the overall duration of the project. It’s important to work closely with the design team and builders to ensure that the interior finishes are implemented efficiently and to the homeowner’s satisfaction. By prioritizing clear communication and timely decision-making, homeowners can help streamline the process and ensure that their dream home is completed within the desired timeframe.
Exterior Finishes: can take 8 to 14 weeks
When it comes to building a custom home, the exterior finishes phase is a crucial step in the construction process. This phase involves the installation of siding, roofing, windows, and doors, which not only enhance the visual appeal of the home but also provide protection against the elements. Typically taking around 8 to 14 weeks, the duration of this phase may vary depending on the size and complexity of the project.
After the completion of the exterior finishes, the final touches, cleaning, and closing phase begins. During this stage, final inspections are conducted, any remaining issues or punch list items are addressed, and a thorough cleaning is done to ensure the home is move-in ready. The duration of this phase can vary based on the specific requirements of the project, but it generally takes around 8 to 14 weeks.
Final Touches, Cleaning, and Closing: can take 10 to 16 weeks
The final touches, cleaning, and closing phase is the last step in the construction process of a custom home. During this phase, any remaining items on the punch list are addressed, final inspections are conducted, and a thorough cleaning is done to prepare the home for occupancy. This phase typically takes around 10 to 16 weeks, depending on the specific requirements of the project. Once this phase is complete, your custom home will be ready for you to move in and enjoy.
How Long Building a Custom Home Takes with BRH
At Built Right Homes, we understand that building a custom home is an exciting and complex process. The timeline for building a custom home can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the availability of materials and labor, and any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during construction. On average, the construction of a custom home can take anywhere from several months to over a year.
When you choose BRH as your custom home builder, our team of experienced professionals will work closely with you to create a detailed project plan and timeline. We will guide you through each phase of the construction process, from design and pre-construction to the final touches and closing. Our goal is to ensure that your custom home is built to your exact specifications and delivered on time.
To get a more accurate estimate of how long building your custom home will take with BRH, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our team. We will assess your specific needs and requirements, consider the unique aspects of your project, and provide you with a detailed timeline tailored to your individual circumstances. Building a custom home is a significant investment, and we are committed to delivering a high-quality home that exceeds your expectations.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start the journey to building your dream home with BRH.
