A Custom Home Builder constructs a one-of-a-kind home that is designed
for a specific client and for a particular location. The Custom Home Builder
may use plans created by an architect or by a professional home designer.
Some Custom Home Builders also offer professional design services.
Because each house is unique, Custom Home Builders generally
construct only a few (less than twenty-five) homes a year.
In most cases, Custom Home Builders construct on land
the home buyer already owns. However, some Custom
Builders will provide the building lot.
H Group with Prudential Texas Properties has
worked with the custom Home Builders listed in
both the left and right columns of this page.
Before You Build: 5 Steps to Your New Home
By Jackie Craven, About.com Guide
Building a new home begins long before the foundation is poured.
To avoid costly mistakes during the construction process, start
with these five important steps.
Step 1: Plan Your Budget
Begin now to think about how much you can afford to
spend and how much building your new home is likely to cost.
Chances are you will need a construction loan and a mortgage. It's
not too early to find out what size loan you qualify for. Also,
knowing the approximate costs will help you modify your
building plans to meet your budget.
Step 2: Choose Your Lot
Whether you are building your home in a suburban
development or a site with sweeping ocean views, you will
almost always need to choose the land before you select floor
plans or other details. You (and any professionals you hire)
will need to investigate factors such as soil condition,
drainage, zoning and building codes in the region.
Step 3: Line Up Your Team
Unless you are a homesteader, you'll need a team of experts
to design and construct your house. Key players will include
a builder, an excavator, a surveyor and a home designer or
an architect. Many homeowners begin by selecting the
builder or contractor. That professional then selects
other members of the team. However, you may also
elect to hire an architect or designer first.
Step 4: Pick a Plan
Many new homes are built using stock plans from a catelog.
The builder or a home designer may make minor modifications
in room size, window style or other details. A custom-designed
home, on the other hand, is created specifically for the family
which will live there. In most cases, custom-designed homes
require the services of a licensed architect. Whether you elect
for a stock or a custom design, you will be wise to choose a
plan that will meet your needs for many years to come.
Step 5: Negotiate a Contract
Be sure to get a written contract which has been signed and
dated by both the builder or contractor and the architect or
designer. A contract for new home construction will describe
the project in detail and include a listing of all the parts to be
included in the house. Remember to amend the contract if you
or your team make any changes to the project later on.
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