If you consider building a custom home, you probably have many questions. We understand this is a big decision and a significant investment, so we want to ensure you have all the information you need before you start. That’s why we have prepared this blog post to answer some of the most common questions we get from our clients. Here are some of the things we will ask you when you contact us for a consultation:

•              Do you own the land or the existing house?

This is important because it affects the feasibility and cost of your project. Owning the land or the house gives you more flexibility and control over the design and construction process. If you don’t, you must find a suitable lot that meets your needs and budget, which may require additional research and planning.

•              Do you have a site plan?

A site plan is a drawing that shows your property’s boundaries, dimensions, and features, such as trees, slopes, utilities, easements, etc. It helps us to understand the site conditions and constraints and to design a home that fits your land and complies with the zoning and building codes.

•              Have you been working with an architectural firm for design?

Some clients come to us with a clear vision of what they want their home to look like, and some even have sketches or plans from an architect. Others need more guidance and inspiration, and that’s where we can help. Our team of experienced architects and designers can work with you to create a custom home that reflects your style, personality, and needs.

•              Do you have a demolition permit for your existing home?

If you plan to tear down your existing home and build a new one on the same site, you will need to obtain a demolition permit from your local municipality. This may involve submitting an application, paying a fee, and providing proof of ownership and insurance. Depending on the location and condition of your home, you may also need to arrange for asbestos testing and removal, utility disconnection, and environmental assessment.

•              What is your budget?

This is one of the most important questions before building a custom home. Your budget will determine your home’s size, style, quality, and features, as well as the timeline and scope of work. We will work with you to establish a realistic budget based on your goals and expectations, and we will provide you with a detailed estimate that breaks down all the costs involved in your project.

•              When are you looking to start?

Building a custom home takes time and planning. Depending on the complexity and scale of your project, it may take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years or more to complete. We will discuss the best time to start your project based on your availability, preferences, and weather conditions. We will also create a schedule that outlines your project’s phases and milestones, from design to completion.

•              When do you want the project done?

Another critical question is when you want to move into your new home. This will affect the pace and intensity of your project and the availability of materials and labor. We will work with you to set a realistic deadline that meets your needs and expectations, and we will do our best to deliver your project on time and budget.

•              Why did you contact us specifically?

We are always curious to know what attracted our clients to us. Was it our reputation, portfolio, testimonials, or something else? Knowing why you chose us helps us understand what you value and expect from us. It also allows us to tailor our services and communication to suit your preferences and style.

•              Are you funding the project yourself or the bank?

Building a custom home requires a significant financial commitment, and most clients need some form of financing to fund their projects. Whether you plan to use your savings, borrow from a bank or another lender, or use a combination of both, we need to know how you plan to pay for your project. This will affect the payment terms and schedule we agree on.

•              Property location?

The location of your property is another key factor that influences the design and construction of your custom home. Different locations have different requirements and regulations regarding zoning, permits, inspections, taxes, etc. We will need to know where your property is located so that we can research and comply with all the relevant rules and codes that apply to your project.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information and a preliminary meeting.