Building the perfect custom home is a dream that many aspire to, and if you are one of those people who hopes to make this dream a reality, then knowing the intricacies of the process is useful. This month’s article will take you through the custom-building process, from the initial concept to the final walkthrough. This custom journey can be a fascinating adventure, though it can be full of challenges too. We believe that unveiling the custom home building process for you will arm you with the knowledge you need to start this process, and prepare you for any issues you may encounter along the way. Keep reading to discover where to find a professional custom home builder when you are ready to start your custom build.
1: Dream and Inspiration: The Conceptualisation Stage
The custom-building journey begins with an idea, a dream. You must first envision the kind of home that you want to live in – a home that reflects your personality, suits your lifestyle, and meets all the needs of you and your family. This is the time to gather inspiration from everywhere that you can: magazines, websites, and the architectural styles of the homes around you. At this point, you can also work with a designer or an architect who can help you to not only refine your vision, but determine what is possible in terms of your budget.
2: Budgeting and Financing
Next up, it’s time to consider the budget. You must establish a realistic budget for your custom home before you can move onto the next stages of the process. In order to do this, there are several factors that you must take into account such as, construction costs, permit expenses, design fees, and landscaping. In addition, it is also a great idea to include a contingency fund that will come in handy for unexpected costs that can crop up through the building process. After you have decided on your budget, you will next need to secure financing for your custom project. This could be a mortgage, a construction loan, or a combination of both.
3: Design and Planning
Now is the stage where your dream begins to take shape – at least on paper. You will need to work closely with architects and designers to create plans for your home. This part of the process will include deciding on the architectural style for your home, the overall layout, the size of each room, and selecting the materials and the finishes. This is also the time to ensure that your build will comply with all the appropriate building codes and regulations.
4: Permits and Approvals
Building a custom home will require you to obtain various permits and approvals from local authorities. These include zoning permits, environmental permits, and building permits. While this step can be time-consuming, it is a crucial step to ensuring that your home is constructed legally and safely.
5: Pre-Construction Preparation
Before construction can begin, there are important pre-construction tasks that must be carried out. These can include clearing the site, preparing the foundation, and ensuring that utility connections are in place. Now is also the time to finalise contracts with your custom builder as well as any subcontractors.
6: Construction Commences
It’s finally time to break ground! This starts with laying the foundation, followed by the construction of the frame. Next up is roofing, exterior walls, and windows. This phase usually moves pretty quickly, meaning that you will likely see your home’s basic structure start to take shape soon!
7: Installation of Systems
After the structural elements are in place, it’s time to install systems like electrical, plumbing, ventilation, heating, and cooling.
8: Interior and Exterior Finishes
Next, the attention turns to the finishing touches like insulation, plasterboard, flooring, cabinetry, and paint. Now is when your design choices really come to life, and the personality of your home starts to shine.
9: Inspections and Quality Control
There will be various inspections occurring throughout the different stages of the construction process, which review the work and ensure that it complies with necessary codes and regulations. Additionally, your custom builder will also conduct quality control checks that make sure that everything is up to standard.
10: Final Walkthrough and Closing
As the construction nears completion, you will conduct a final walkthrough of your new custom home. This is your opportunity to inspect every aspect and ensure that it meets your expectations. If you have any issues or concerns, they should be brought up, addressed, and resolved at this stage. Once you are happy, there is nothing left to do but close, receive the keys, and move into your dream home!
Are You Looking for a Custom Home Builder?
If you have been inspired by learning about the custom-building process and need a custom home builder, look no further than S&B Lamble Builders. When it comes to planning a custom build, you need to partner with a trusted and experienced builder who can ensure that your dream home becomes a reality.
When you need a professional custom builder, contact us at 03 5941 8135 or fill out our online contact form, and we will happily take care of your enquiry!