7 Stages of Building Your Custom Home: Everything to Know
Building a custom home can be one of the most rewarding ventures a person takes on.
A custom build is a complex project with varying components, but one primary advantage to building your home is not having to shop around combing through listings to find the ideal home.
When it comes to designing and building your custom home the length of time it takes can vary depending on the size of your home and what features you want.
Building a new home comes with long-term advantages as there is less maintenance, fewer repairs which saves you time and money, and it’s better for the environment. By creating a more energy-efficient home, you have the option to prepare for future tech upgrades like solar panels or smart home automation— it’s a win-win for your wallet and the environment.
It may also be easier to recoup your investment later down the road if you decide to sell, since newer homes tend to be more attractive to buyers. The satisfaction of customizing every detail of your brand new investment is priceless.
Take a look at our home building process.
What to Consider When Building a Custom Home
1. Planning
The home-buying process requires numerous decisions, with the first step being to decide whether to build a custom home or shop for an existing one.
Like most people, you’ve probably spent lots of time and energy searching for the perfect home long before contracts and down payments enter the picture. A few factors to keep in mind when building a custom home are budget, timeline, market trends and the overall condition of the property.
You’ll also want to consider size, privacy, and how much space is needed. Do you have a large family? A lot of out-of-town guests? If you’re someone who enjoys entertaining you might opt for a more open floor plan. Landscaping and private outdoor spaces are great, beautiful ways to incorporate privacy.
Some factors to consider when planning include:
- A larger home comes with more maintenance but has more storage
- Plan for the future, consider changing needs, growing families, retirement, etc.
- Your home should meet your current needs but also be versatile for the future
- Make a checklist, come up with a budget and ask questions
2. Finding a Builder
Finding the right builder is crucial, so be sure to interview several to find the right fit. After finding a reputable and licensed builder, you can then move on to the pre-approval process.
- Be clear about your must-have features
- Think about how much house you can afford
- Don’t be afraid to ask about previous work
- Ask about licenses, insurances, and warranties
- Take your time and don’t rush!
3. Design
Designing a home to your specifications is a thrilling experience, especially if you have a solid idea of what you’re looking for. Not sure? No worries! It’s ok if you don’t have a complete vision of the home you want to build— we’ll help you align your vision and your budget.
Think about how many stories you want or if you want a multi-level home at all, how many rooms you need, what type of floor plan you like, and what lifestyle add-ons would best accommodate your family.
From start to finish, from layout to design and style or any other special features you might want included— prioritizing your needs and wants is our top priority.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Rank desired features from highest to lowest
- Compare and contrast color swatches, finishes and paint samples
- Consider expense for customized features
- Do market research
4. South Carolina Permits
How do I get a building permit? What are the ordinances for residential and commercial zoning codes? And what about contractor laws and licensing requirements?
You’ve got questions— we’ve got answers. Learn more about South Carolina building permits here.
5. Demolition + Framing
Demolition teams clear the land by removing any existing structures, after that rough grading will begin to reshape the ground.
Framing is exciting because it’s where the blueprints come to life, often it can be difficult for people to visualize how it all comes together. Framing creates the bones of the structure.
6. HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Drywall + Painting
After framing, rough plumbing, rough electrical, and HVAC work are complete, inspectors examine each aspect to make sure the work is up to code. An inspector will ensure everything meets local code guidelines, looking for plumbing leaks and pressure testing pipes, drains and sewage.
7. HVAC Trim + Plumbing
The HVAC technician will do a final walk-through to finish any remaining trim work and install the air handler and condenser. Plumbing installation is the final phase, toilets, sinks, faucets and other bathroom fixtures will be put into place.
8. Drywall
Once the drywall and carpentry are completed your new house really begins to take shape.
9. Electrical Wiring
In the final steps, the contractor will connect the HVAC system, fans, electrical outlets, lights and circuit breakers. All that’s left is a final inspection and you’re all set to move-in!
10. Painting
Another great perk of building your own home is countless paint options. It’s customary to wait 6 to 12 months before painting and decorating to make sure the house is completely dried out and settled.
11. Add Finishing Materials
You’ll need to revisit your budget again before you begin looking at flooring because you may be required to pay for upgrades in cash rather than financing. Another consideration is structural upgrades, think about finished basements, additional windows or external upgrades. Decisions about interior finishes are most commonly made after.
Let’s Build Together
At Kamanski Construction, we have over 30 years of experience. We believe in quality work done right and making sure the process goes as smoothly as possible— let our highly skilled team of designers and contractors help you customize your dream home today. Your brand new custom build is just a click away.
Check out our portfolio. Questions? Give us a call at 864.800.9912 or drop us a line. Start your project today! The perfect property exists, let us build it for you.