Most builders I know say if they aren't building at least 5 spec homes per year in the $250,000 range or at least $1 million in custom builds, they're losing money.

It's nice because there's a lot you can customize to meet your needs and style.

Its a custom home community (in CA) where homes sell for an average of $650 to $750 per sqr feet.

The first two sill take the homes off your books fast, but the last one will take years, if at all.The only advantage to the scenario you are talking about is that you can re-set the lot rent to any level you want internally on POHs as the customer only knows the total home and land rental, not just the land rental.

I'm a small builder in a snowy Northern state trying to help my customer out.  

I’ve heard they are more willing to work with you, and have better customer service.

*there may be one or two out there that will, and sometimes only to already known customers.

I understand that he just wants to close the loan and move on to the next, but where is the customer service here? 

I understand that he just wants to close the loan and move on to the next, but where is the customer service here?

. #1 in mortgage by volume is known for having ridiculously high hidden fees, #2 is another household name, famous for their "every customer should have 8 accounts" scandal, both are widely despised by Realtors (you know, the people who are telling their seller client which offer to accept and which to throw in the trash).If the person you are working with comes well referred and you have confidence in them, that goes a long way.