The first step is to begin thinking about what you really want in a house. Consult all the family members and think of all the activities which might go on in the house over the next 50 years. Maybe you are only in your 20’s, and have no children, but this home will serve you for the rest of your lives unless you decide to move. Therefore consider the unborn children, the possibility of elderly parents coming to live with you, and the elderly you who may not feel like climbing three flights of stairs to reach that master bedroom in the attic. Consider what activities and parties you might host in the future, and how future co-workers might view your house when you invite them over. It is OK to daydream because this is a process of dreaming, as well as planning. The important thing is to be able to plan a home that will fit your lifestyle, now and in the future.

Consider the budget carefully and estimate what you can afford to spend. Consider the area and the lots available, and how you want your home to look. Plan in detail the number of rooms necessary, and the space you’ll need in each room. Research building codes, various development restrictions, and what school district the lots under consideration are in.

The first step is to select a lot. In many ways selection of the lot is the most important step of the building process. After all, location is the number one factor determining the resale value of a home. Consider school districts, the neighborhood, and if the lot is large enough to afford the degree of privacy you want. Do you want to live where utilities are provided by the city, or where you will be responsible for drilling a well, and putting in a septic tank? If you want a septic tank you must order a perc test before you purchase the lot. If you already own a lot many home builders and contractors are very willing to build on your lot.

After you have selected a custom home builder and have a plan, the next step is to start considering building materials and exterior and interior finishes, moldings and the overall look of the house. It’s about taste and the overall emotional feel of the house, so only you and those who will be living with you should decide how the house should feel.

The next steps in very important and it is discussing the budget in detail with the builder or contractor. Actually budgeting is an on going process up to this point, as each phase of the pre process determines cost. Lot and floor plan are huge factors in the budget, so by now you are merely finalizing the price, and determining that you can get a loan for this amount. In my experience home buyers have no idea which things will cost more than others. It pays to research the costs, and to discuss less expensive ways to achieve the same look with less money. Most custom home builder or contractor will help you deal with the bank, and may recommend a specific loan officer if you do not know any. They may even help you set up the appointment with a loan officer.

The fifth step includes the proposal. A couple of weeks after meeting with the contractor to discuss the budget, plan and materials, he will come up with a final quote, which includes all the things you wanted at the price given. Any compromises will be worked out and the contract and paperwork finalized, and signed. Tip: it’s a good ideas and I always recommend that you have an attorney review the contract before signing.

While the custom home building schedule will take six months to a year, the time will fly by because you will be actively involved in making small selections, and watching your home take form. The contractor or home builder and his extensive staff of sub contractors will do all the work, but you may be as involved as you like in visiting the site, observing the processes and occasionally even lending a hand if you like. It is a good idea to understand the process of construction as well, so you should do extensive research on line, and ask questions if you like. It is important to stay involved in the home building process and enjoy this important life experience to the fullest.