Building a new home can be exciting! It also can be very overwhelming, especially if you are a first-time builder. From the design and layout to the actual customization of the home, there are many things that can get overlooked during the building process. Lucky for you, we at Sterling Creek Builders are here to help alleviate some of that stress. We specialize in all types of custom building and remodeling and have been in the business for over 10 years. We pride ourselves in offering the best professional approach to the custom building process. From offering detailed estimates and timelines to selecting quality subcontracts we trust, our team strives to build incredible relationships with our clients and consistently meet their goals. But enough about us, let’s take a look at what to expect when building a home.
Before Building
Before the construction of your new home even takes place, you’re going to want to have all your blueprints completed. This will allow your builder to have a better idea of time and what the building schedule will look like. You’ll also need building permits from the city or the county. Building permits are also only valid for a certain amount of time, so you’ll want to discuss this with your builder to make sure that it’s done in time. Building permits may also need to change if you decide that you want to make any significant changes to the design and construction work.
This process to obtain the permits can range anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, and unfortunately, you’re on the city’s time for this one. Once the permit has been approved your site will be prepared for construction! This may include the removal of trees and clearing out the site, which could also take some more time. Once your home is outlined, you’ll want to make sure that you check out these factors, which can get overlooked.
- Is your home oriented for maximum sunlight?
- Will your gas and water lines all be connected properly?
- Are you maximizing the best view from your home?
Time
There are so many things that go into building a home, which makes it a massive time commitment. Building a home does not happen overnight, and depending on the size and type of home you’re building it may take months to complete construction. So if you are moving or planning on selling your current home, make sure to factor in time and allow yourself some extra wiggle room just in case your builders need an extra week. You’ll also want to be aware of the weather during the time that you’re building. Yes, some of the weather is unavoidable (especially here in Texas), but if you can, plan to start construction when the weather is nice. Anything from rain to extreme heat can all delay construction, so make sure you discuss this with your builder in order to optimize your time in the best way.
Budget More Than You Expect
No matter how prepared you are, there are always things that are going to creep up in the building process that could cost you some money. There could be a number of items that may not be included in the initial building estimate (we promise this isn’t relevant to us). Costs that include landscaping, fences, or another type of finishing costs can run anywhere from 15-25% of your budget, which many people forget in the initial building cost. There are also account site costs like zoning fees, which may not be included in your application fees, so plan accordingly.
The Construction Process
The construction process can range from a few months to more than a year. You builder is going to be the most important part of the process. They are responsible for communicating with subcontractors, ordering supplies, and the overall construction. They are the ones that will be making sure everything is getting done to the necessary specifications. Various parts of the construction are going to be handled by various tradesmen, subcontractors, and other specialists. You may also see a city or county building inspector who is responsible to make sure that your new home is safe. They’ll check your foundation, framing, electrical systems, and plumbing. Since the construction process involves so many different groups, you’ll want to make sure that your scheduling is precise. If there are only a few tradesmen in your area, you may notice some delays and will want to plan accordingly.
Walk Through and Review
Once you’ve passed the final inspection, your builder will give you a tour or pre-settlement demonstration of your new home from top to bottom. This will help you become familiar with your new home and all the features and systems within it. This is also the time for you to inspect and make sure that everything looks good. You’ll want to examine the fixtures and appliances for any defects or damages that might have happened. If there is even the slightest change that you want to make, make sure that you speak up! After all, it is your home and you’re going to be in it for (hopefully) forever.
At Sterling Creek Builders, we are dedicated to turning your dream of a new home into reality. We believe building custom homes of exceptional quality and design. Check out our gallery here, and we’ll let our work speak for itself. If you have any other questions about home building, give us a call at 325-219-4094 or come visit us in Llano, Texas. We proudly serve the central Texas area, and look forward to serving you too!
