Looking to build a custom home - where to start?

[Ossamah S.]

I am tired of looking for the "right" house and have decided to take a plunge into building one for myself. Where should I even start?

[Kama Ward]

Don't try to save money!

What the heck does this mean?

Don't build yourself.

Don't listen to the guy who tells you what you want to hear (listen to the pro who tells you the tough stuff up front).

Don't use your fathers friend who hasn't built a house for a few years (codes and techniques change).

Don't use a carpenter friend who asks you to pull the permits.

Don't use your carpenter friend to put the tile in your bathroom.

I have seen several friends try each of these techniques: each cost more money, more time, more worry, more set backs! They did not get all that they wanted in the house. They all say they would take a new approach if they had to do it again:

Use a current custom home builder who has built several homes this year!!

Ask real estate investors who builds homes on time/ on budget. These are usually spec homes. Then ask them which builder can roll with changes to their standard house plans. Some builders can build dynamite homes, but are not flexible. Visit homes currently being built, not just ones that have finished. Pay attention to the work site and the workers, not just the house. Is it relatively neat? Do the workers look like they're on drugs?

Don't use an architect- unless you have to. Why? Architects can get you in all kinds of trouble with their fancy new ideas. Pour over the infinite supply of home plans and pick one or two that is closest to what you want. Better yet, work off the plans that the builder you hire uses. You may need an architect/drafter to put your plans on paper- depending on the municipality and the amount of changes.

Be realistic with your expectations:
You are going to get some of what you want in a house, but not all of what you want. It just doesn't work out that way. Budget, skill of builders, local regulations, the laws of physics all work to limit the final project.

You are going to spend more money than you can get out- at least for a while. There is no way a custom home can compete with current available stock, or even new spec homes. General home price rise is what it will take to get your money out-- and for most places in the country that is so slow right now.

Look after your pennies: How many choices will you make when building your home? More than 1000, that's for sure. What if you make choices that cost "only" $100 dollars more. 1000 x 100= $100, 000 dollars! Costs add up soooooo fast. My personal preference is a smaller square feet, energy efficient, and nicer (standard) finishes. I believe most people are happier with my approach over time. It's easy to draw lots of space on paper, and a lot more difficult to pay for, maintain and clean in real life.