Building a custom home is exciting, but some of the most important decisions happen long before construction begins. Buying the wrong homesite, designing before understanding the land, or underestimating site costs can quickly affect both your budget and your timeline.
Here are five common mistakes we help buyers avoid.
MISTAKE #1: Buying Land Before Talking to a Builder
That perfect piece of land may come with challenges you can’t see at first glance. Steep grades, poor soils, floodplain restrictions, zoning requirements and limited utility access can significantly increase building costs or make a property unsuitable for the home you envision.
Before you buy, Timberlake can help identify potential homesite challenges and factors that could impact your plans and budget.
MISTAKE #2: Choosing a Home Before Understanding the Homesite
It’s easy to fall in love with a floor plan. But the right home should work with your property, not be forced onto it.
Topography, orientation, drainage, views, sun exposure and foundation requirements can all influence the design. Understanding the site first can help you avoid costly redesigns while making the most of your property.
MISTAKE #3: Underestimating Site Development Costs
Your construction budget isn’t just about the house.
Clearing, grading, driveways, utilities, wells and septic systems, retaining walls, permits, engineering and other site-related expenses can add substantially to the overall cost of building.
That’s why Timberlake discusses potential site development costs early and, when you’re ready to move forward with a specific property, can provide a more detailed evaluation of the anticipated site costs.
MISTAKE #4: Waiting Too Long to Discuss Financing
Construction financing is different from a traditional mortgage, making early collaboration with your builder and lender important. The right Construction-to-Permanent loan may allow you to purchase the land and finance construction with one closing, potentially saving thousands in interest and closing costs.
MISTAKE #5: Choosing a Builder Based on Price Alone
The lowest number doesn’t always mean the lowest final cost.
Look carefully at what’s included in an estimate, the allowances being used, the builder’s experience with site development, and how clearly the process and potential costs are explained.
Builder experience, a clear scope, realistic budgeting and a well-defined process can be just as important as the initial price.
START EARLY. BUILD SMARTER.
There’s a common thread behind all five mistakes: the earlier you bring the right expertise into the process, the better decisions you can make.
Before you purchase land, finalize a plan or commit to a construction budget, talk with Timberlake Homes Design/Build. Our team can help you understand the homesite, potential costs and the steps ahead, so you can move forward with greater confidence and fewer surprises.
Thinking about building on your lot?
Connect with our team for a complimentary, no-obligation review of your homesite, plans or ideas.