What You Need to Consider Before Building a Custom Home

Ammon McKinlay • December 6, 2022

When it comes to custom homebuilding, there are a lot of things to consider before you break ground. You need to have a firm idea of what you want in your home, and you also need to be aware of the potential pitfalls involved in this type of construction project. Here are the things you need to think about before starting your custom homebuilding journey.

Location

The location of your custom home should be one of the first things to consider. It's important to evaluate the access that local services have to offer, such as public transportation and medical facilities. When selecting a lot for your new home, you'll also need to think about the distance from work or school for any family members who will make use of those services. Additionally, you should consider the neighborhood and if it has any special restrictions or rules that could affect your custom home plans.


Building Regulations and Zoning Laws. Be sure to do some research on the local building regulations and zoning laws in the area where you plan to build your custom home. Different jurisdictions may have different regulations for residential properties, so it's important to make sure your custom home plans are in compliance with local laws. You'll also need to consider if there are any environmental restrictions on the land, such as wetlands protection or wetland buffers.

Size of the Home

When building a custom home, the size of the home is an important consideration. Depending on your budget and goals, it may be best to choose a smaller home with fewer amenities or go bigger with more space and higher-end features. As you map out your plan, think carefully about how much square footage you truly need in order to comfortably live in your new home.


This can be determined by asking yourself questions such as how many bedrooms and bathrooms you want, where the common areas like a kitchen, dining room, and living room will be located, and what kind of outdoor space you need for entertaining or relaxing. Additionally, consider whether any special features like an extra study or garage might be beneficial. By taking a few moments to consider the size of your new home, you can ensure that it is the perfect fit for you and your family.

Design of the Home

Cost of Construction

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The cost of construction is one of the most important factors to consider when building a custom home. It’s essential to get an accurate estimate of how much it will cost you to build your home before beginning any work. You can do this by speaking with experienced contractors who have built similar homes in the past, as well as researching materials and labor costs in your area. When drawing up a budget, make sure to include any unexpected expenses that may arise during the build process. It’s also important to factor in the cost of permits and approvals, which vary depending on where you are building your home. All these factors need to be taken into account before construction can begin.

Financing

Financing is an important factor when considering a custom home build. Construction loans are often the best option, but you may also be able to use a long-term loan or even leverage your savings. Speak to a lending specialist who will be able to advise which loan type is most suitable for you.  You should also ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover any unexpected costs during the build. It is not uncommon for there to be delays and hiccups, so you should factor this into your budget.


Budgeting is a crucial part of the custom home build process. You'll need to determine how much you can spend on materials and labor, as well as any other costs associated with the build. Be sure to get quotes from multiple contractors, and compare them with each other before making a decision. It is also important to create a timeline for your custom home builder so that you know when certain tasks need to be completed. This will help you stay on track and ensure that all aspects of the project are properly accounted for.

Building Permits

Before you can begin building your custom home, it is important to make sure that you have all of the necessary permits. Depending on where you live, there may be specific regulations for constructing a new property and you need to comply with these standards. It is often best to start by checking with your local government or municipality regarding any permits that may be necessary.


You will also need to consider any zoning regulations and building codes in your area, as these can all influence the construction process. You should take the time to research each of the permits you will need and make sure that you have obtained them before beginning construction on your custom home. Doing so can save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

Final Thoughts

When you are considering building a custom home, it is important to consider all of the options that may be available. Take time to research the different materials and techniques used in construction so you can make an informed decision about what will best suit your needs. By doing this, you can ensure that your custom home will provide years of comfort and satisfaction.


At Martin Contracting LLC, we understand that building a custom home is a major decision. That is why we take the time to listen to our clients and work with them to create a home that will meet their needs and exceed their expectations. We use only the highest quality materials and construction techniques, so our clients can rest assured that their custom home will be built to last. Contact us today to discuss your custom homebuilding needs, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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