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New Home Building Guide

Presented By:The Joe Kraft Team

Chapter 1: Getting Started1. Establishing a Budget

Creating a Financial Plan:

Outline all potential costs upfront, including land, site preparation, construction, design, and finishing touches.

Checklist:Purchase price of landArchitectural and design feesUtility connections (e.g., water, sewer, gas)Permit and inspection feesConstruction costs (including labor and materials)Landscaping and hardscapingInterior furnishingsContingency fund (10-15% of the overall budget)



Pro Tips:

Allocate an additional 10-20% for unexpected expenses or upgrades.Suggestion: Use an online budgeting tool or template to track your expenses throughout the process.

Land Purchase: 15%

Construction Costs: 40%

Permits & Fees: 5%

Design & Architectural Fees: 10%

Landscaping & Outdoor Features: 10%

Contingency Fund: 10%

Interior Furnishings: 10%

Chapter 2: Selecting Your Builder1. Builder Interview Questions

Experience & Portfolio

Questions to Ask:What types of homes have you built?Can you provide before-and-after photos of previous projects?Are you familiar with building energy-efficient or “green” homes?

Project Management:

What is your approach to change orders?How do you handle communication with clients? (Weekly meetings, calls, etc.)

Licensing & Insurance:

Are your subcontractors licensed and insured as well? 

Our Contacts

Craftsman Custom Home Builders

craftsmancustomhomebuilders.com

434-266-1070

John Fulton, Architect

 jfulton4@cox.net

540-529-6615

Don Hurley, Builder

Abrynn Homes Inc.

540-312-4516

Geotechnics, Inc.

540-966-4795

2. Red Flags to Watch Out For:Lack of transparency on costs or timelines.Disorganized paperwork or incomplete contracts.Poor reviews online or reluctance to provide references.

Suggestions:

Always check online reviews and BBB ratings.

Visit a few homes they’ve completed to see the quality firsthand.

3. Contracts & Agreements:

Ensure your contract includes:

A detailed timeline and payment schedule.A list of included materials and allowances.Provisions for delays or material shortages.

Images:

Sample builder contract highlighting key areas.Reference sheet of common construction terms.

Chapter 3: Designing Your Home1. Layout Considerations

Popular Layouts:

Open Concept: Best for entertaining, but noise can be a downside.Traditional Layout: Defined rooms for each function; offers privacy.Split-Level: Great for maximizing smaller lots.Two-Story vs. Ranch: Consider maintenance and ease of access.

Suggestions:

Create a “must-have” and “nice-to-have” list before meeting with the architect.Factor in future needs, like aging in place or family expansion.

Images:

Side-by-side comparisons of floor plans.Diagrams showing the pros and cons of each layout type.

2. Functionality Over Aesthetics

Checklist:

Storage needs (closets, cabinetry, attic space).Kitchen configuration (L-shape, U-shape, island with seating).Bathroom features (double vanity, walk-in shower).

Pro Tip:

Sketch out your daily routines to see how the layout will accommodate them.

Images:

Sample floor plan with furniture arrangements.Graphic showing optimal kitchen layouts for cooking efficiency.

Chapter 4: Planning The Build Step-by-Step Time

Pre-Construction

Site clearing and staking out the foundation.Checklist: Permits in place, utility connections verified.

Foundation & Framing

Types of foundations: Slab, crawl space, or basement.Checkpoints: Plumbing rough-ins, waterproofing, framing alignment.

Roofing & Windows

Inspect for proper installation and sealing.Advice: Choose energy-efficient windows to save on future energy bills.

Rough-Ins & Inspections

Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC installation.Tip: Take photos of open walls for future reference.

Interior Finishes

Flooring, cabinetry, painting, and hardware.Focus on durability and ease of maintenance for high-traffic areas.

Final Walkthrough

Test all outlets, fixtures, and appliances.Create a “punch list” of items that need to be addressed before closing.

Move-In

Organize your warranty documents and final blueprints.Suggestion: Create a maintenance schedule to keep your home in prime condition.Images:Illustrative timelines with key milestones.Detailed image of a home’s interior before drywall installation, showing utilities.

Chapter 5: Avoiding Common PitfallsItems to Look Out For

Inaccurate Budgets

Solution: Always add 10-15% for unanticipated costs. Review your budget with a financial advisor or a trusted real estate professional to ensure all costs are accounted for, including permits, inspections, and potential upgrades.

Change Orders

Solution: Limit changes during construction to avoid delays and increased costs. Review design plans thoroughly before construction begins, and be sure you're confident in your selections.

Delays & Communication Gaps

Solution: Set clear communication expectations with the builder from the start. Establish a regular check-in schedule to stay updated on progress and address any issues quickly.

Underestimated Timelines

Solution: Construction timelines often extend due to weather, material availability, or unforeseen complications. Build in extra time when planning your move-in date, and ask the builder to provide realistic completion milestones.

Inconsistent Quality Control

Solution: Regular site visits are key. Arrange for periodic inspections from a third-party inspector to ensure the work meets your standards and that corners aren't being cut during construction.

Permitting & Zoning Issues

Solution: Research local zoning laws and permit requirements before starting construction. Make sure your builder is familiar with all local regulations and has a clear plan for securing the necessary permits.

Overlooked Site Conditions

Solution: Make sure your builder conducts a thorough site evaluation to identify potential issues such as soil quality, drainage, or utility hookups. Addressing these early can prevent major issues later on.

Incomplete Contract Details

Solution: Ensure your contract with the builder includes detailed descriptions of all work, materials, and deadlines. Review everything carefully with your lawyer to avoid misunderstandings down the line.

Misaligned Expectations with Subcontractors

Solution: Confirm that the builder works with reliable subcontractors and communicates your expectations clearly to them. Ask to meet key subcontractors, such as electricians or plumbers, if possible.

Warranty & After-Sale Service Issues

Solution: Before signing off on the project, ensure you have a clear understanding of the builder’s warranty and what it covers. This should include structural integrity and any potential post-construction repairs.

Overlooked Site Conditions

Solution: Make sure your builder conducts a thorough site evaluation to identify potential issues such as soil quality, drainage, or utility hookups. Addressing these early can prevent major issues later on.

Incomplete Contract Details

Solution: Ensure your contract with the builder includes detailed descriptions of all work, materials, and deadlines. Review everything carefully with your lawyer to avoid misunderstandings down the line.

Misaligned Expectations with Subcontractors

Solution: Confirm that the builder works with reliable subcontractors and communicates your expectations clearly to them. Ask to meet key subcontractors, such as electricians or plumbers, if possible.

Warranty & After-Sale Service Issues

Solution: Before signing off on the project, ensure you have a clear understanding of the builder’s warranty and what it covers. This should include structural integrity and any potential post-construction repairs.

Conclusion

Building a home is a rewarding journey that transforms your vision into reality. Throughout this guide, we've explored every essential step of the process—from budgeting and selecting the right team to designing a home that suits your lifestyle and overseeing the construction phases.

As you move forward, keep in mind that the key to a successful home build lies in thorough planning, clear communication, and flexibility. Here are a few final reminders:

Stay Organized: Keep track of important documents, contracts, and schedules. Regularly review your budget and make adjustments as needed.Communicate Often: Maintain open lines of communication with your builder, architect, and any other professionals involved. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request clarification when needed.Be Flexible: Unforeseen challenges can arise during the building process. Approach each phase with patience and a readiness to adapt to changes.Focus on the Future: While it’s important to create a home that fits your current needs, also think about how it will serve you in the years to come. Designing for flexibility and future growth will help ensure your home remains functional and comfortable long-term.

Lastly, remember that building a home is not just about constructing a structure—it's about creating a space that reflects your lifestyle, values, and personal tastes. Enjoy the process and take pride in the choices you make along the way, as they will shape the place you call home for many years to come.

Thank you for using this guide, and we are excited to assist you in building your dream home!