On the Home Front Blog 

The Top Five Myths About Building a Custom Home

by Brandon Simpson and Dan Lawson

Are you intimidated about constructing a custom-built home? When we first started our business, we noticed there were misconceptions among buyers. Some loved the idea of building a home the way they wanted, but thought it would be a long and involved process. Others believed custom-built would come with a high price tag, or they marked it off as something they could not afford.

Going the custom-built route doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—depending on the builder. We’ve found the best way to address such false impressions is to walk potential buyers through our home-building steps, explaining everything in detail. Through this process, we’ve fielded a lot of questions that have resulted in happy homebuyers. We thought it would be helpful to break down what we consider the top five myths about building a custom home.

Here are the Top Five Myths About Building a Custom Home

Myth #1 – A custom-built home sounds great, but I know I can’t afford it.

It’s more affordable than you may think. One of the first questions we ask our clients is: “What is your budget?” Quality home builders offer a variety of home designs and floor plans to fit varying budgets. Upgrades can and do add to the bottom line. Be sure to understand which features are standard, as opposed to upgrades which will increase your home’s cost. At AB Homes, some of our standard features include architectural roof shingles, two-piece crown molding, granite counter tops, ceramic tile and stainless steel appliances (among others). Some home-building companies would consider these upgrades. Be sure to ask.

Myth #2 – I’ll have to buy the lot

So what comes first—selecting a home site or deciding on a home style and floor plan? For us, it’s the latter. We keep an inventory of home sites, and we’re always on the lookout for beautiful properties. Once we’ve met with our clients and discover what they are looking for in their home and lifestyle, we show them properties that would be a good fit. The cost of the lot is included in the final cost of the home. To address this myth; no, you don’t have to buy a lot.

Myth #3 – Designing it will be too complicated; I will need an architect

This is where an experienced custom home builder can help. They can recommend floor plans that will complement the way you live, work and play, or they can customize an existing plan to accommodate features such as a home office, a back deck or a home theatre. An in-house design team is more than capable of bringing your ideas to life.

Myth #4 – It will take too long

Building a custom home is more complex than buying a new or resale home. It involves advanced planning, decision making and ongoing communication between the builder and buyer. A good builder knows how to keep the process running smoothly. Once a buyer signs the purchase contract, we keep to a strict schedule. It takes us approximately four to five months to build a home from start to finish. What’s more, our homes are move-in ready—including installed appliances, a finished garage and blinds in every window.

Myth #5 – I’ll have to cover large out-of-pocket expenses

Some builders will ask for a deposit to cover upfront expenses before construction begins. This might go toward the cost of a site plan, a percolation test for installing a septic drain field or good faith money. Not every builder does. Some, like us, will cover all of the construction costs in the price of the home. We pay these costs on your behalf. This is a good first question when interviewing prospective builders. If you’d rather not provide money upfront, give us as call. 

By deconstructing these myths, we hope it will shed some light on the advantages of the custom-built process. It doesn’t have to be difficult. Having the right builder makes all the difference.

When you’re ready to discuss building a custom home, give us a call at (757) 435-9900.

All the best,

Brandon and Dan

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