The Building Process
I would like to build my new home, but how do I
get started? This is typically the first question a new customer will ask us on that first phone call. We tell them to focus on three things: financing, property, and plans.
Financing
Turning your financials into the bank is always the first step. You must find out how much you qualify to borrow. This can be a frustrating process. As a result of the banking crisis of The Great Recession, banks are very selective and it can take several weeks or months to get through the banking process. So, start early with them. Also remember that if you qualify for a higher amount than you expected, you still only need to borrow what you are prepared to pay back! Handy tip: Go to an online "mortgage calculator" to see what your monthly payments will be.
Southern Home Builders has a great relationship with several banks and mortgage companies in our area. Call us first and let us recommend a lender. We know which ones are easier to work with and which ones you need to stay away from.
Property
The next step is to find the land to build on. This can be a tough process too. It is can be a challenge to find that perfect place. Whether you are interested in a subdivision, or land out in the country, prepare for this to take some time. We usually keep some lots in our inventory, but most of our business is building on customers land. And for those customers that already have their land or lot, you are in a good position to get to the construction process sooner. But, for everyone else, feel free to contact us and we will help you search.
Plans
We recommend that our customers browse the online house plan web sites, or search our website to see the unique custom homes that we show off in the "photo gallery" of this web site. Sometimes our customers will find a plan that they really like and it only needs a few changes. But often times, they have several pages of ideas. That is no problem at all. The architect/drafter can take all those ideas and put them together into your perfect home.
Once the ideas are collected, our customers call and set up an appointment at the office (2558 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 110). This is a great time for us to meet and greet. As well, we can give answers to all your questions and give you feedback on the cost associated with your ideas. VERY IMPORTANT: We will give you a "ballpark estimate" of your cost before you start your plans. This ensures that you are on going to be in line with our budget. If you are pleased with this meeting and your "ballpark price", you will choose to have a second meeting that will also include the architect/drafter. We are now on our way!
Now the creative process is moving forward. Our drafters are very talented in taking your ideas and turning them into a blue print reality. Offering input along the way, they will make sure that all considerations have been made throughout the creative process. Most importantly we will stay with you and offer advice to help you stay on your budget. You don't need to complete your plans and then be surprised later with the building cost. We will strive to keep you in line with the "ballpark estimate" we gave you before you started.
Finding land, drawing plans, and getting through the banking process are definitely the hardest part of the building process. Once you get through it, the rest is a breeze. The following information will guide you through the construction process.
Now it's time to Build!
Foundation
While we construct the foundation, we will help you choose the following:
Front door package
Window color and style
Brick color
Shingle color and style
Plumbing Fixtures
Framing and Rough Ins
While we are framing the house, we will help you make the following important decisions.
Where to Locate Cable and Phone Lines
What Type of Security Package
Surround Sound, Intercom, Central Vacuum, etc.
Columns and Siding Decisions
Cabinets Style and Features
Sheetrock and Wall Textures
Insulation and Environmental Considerations
Lighting Package
Sheetrock and Exterior
While we hang sheetrock and work on the exterior, we will help you pick out the following:
Interior Trim Details
Paint Colors and Detail
Interior Doors, Hinges, and Handles
Floor Covering Tile Showers
Granite and Marble Counter Tops
Cabinets, Trim, and Paint
During this process, your house will enter its finished state. We will be assisting you with the following:
Appliance Selections
Mirrors and Shelving
Bathroom Accessories
Driveway and Walkway
Landscaping and Irrigation
***This is also a good time to be setting a closing date***
However, we are always there to help you get through each decision with our advice and considerations. You can lean on us for the largest and the smallest of decisions. If needed, we will take you by the hand and walk you through it all. That's what we're there for! We will make you feel comfortable. And we've gotten pretty good at recognizing the decisions that will protect the financial investment of your home, as well as those that make it aesthetically pleasing.