6 Steps to Building a Custom Home in Wilmington, NC

Are you tired of your run-of-the-mill suburban lifestyle? Are you longing for a place that truly feels like home, where you can put your own stamp on things and make all the decisions? If so, it might be time to think about building a custom home in Wilmington, NC. While this may seem like a daunting task, it can actually be quite easy if you follow these six steps

1. Determine what you want in a custom home

Realizing your dream home starts with understanding what you want and what you need. You may think you know, but it is important to spend some time considering all of your options before narrowing down your choices.

Reviewing photos of homes and collecting ideas can help you begin to understand the style you are drawn to and the functionality you require.

Once you have a good understanding of your own personal style, you can start to determine which design elements are most important to you.

Perhaps you value an open floor plan or lots of natural light. Maybe you need a home office or a mudroom.

It is also important to consider how your family will use the space.

If you have small children, for example, you might need a playroom or easy access to the backyard. Taking the time to understand your own needs and wants will help ensure that your dream home becomes a reality.

2. Find a reputable builder

When you're ready to build your dream home, you want to make sure you're working with a reputable builder. A good builder will have in-house design or architect partners that can make the design process smooth and work to maximize the design per budget. They will also be familiar with the zoning regulations in your area and have a strong network of subcontractors.

Do your research. Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors who have recently built a home, and ask for recommendations. Once you have a few builders in mind, do some research online. Read online reviews and check out the builders' websites. 

Schedule consultations. When you've narrowed down your list of potential builders, schedule consultations with each one. This is your opportunity to ask questions about their experience, process, and pricing. Make sure to ask for references from past clients as well. 

Get everything in writing. Once you've chosen a builder, get everything in writing before work begins. This includes a detailed contract that outlines the scope of work, timeline, and budget. This will protect you in case there are any issues down the road. 

After you've found a reputable builder, it's time to start designing your dream home.

3. Work with your builder on the design

If you already have a clear idea of what you want, then the process will be much easier. However, if you're not sure where to start, don't worry – your builder should be able to help you figure it out.

The first step is to sit down with your builder and discuss your budget. It's important to be realistic about what you can afford, as this will help determine the size and scope of the project. Once you have a budget in mind, you can start to narrow down your choices for floor plans, finishes, and fixtures.

Don't underestimate the impact your choices will have on your budget. Seemingly small changes can have big financial impacts. For example, choosing higher level granite countertops instead of builder grade can add thousands of dollars to the price tag. With the help of your builder, you can find ways to stay within your budget while still getting the features and finishes you want.

4. Get permits and inspections as needed

The permitting process can be one of the most challenging aspects of building a custom home. In Wilmington, NC, you'll need to obtain a permit from the city or county in which you plan to build. The process can be time-consuming, so it's important to make sure your builder starts early and is familiar with the county's process. Once you have your permit, your builder will need to schedule inspections throughout the construction process.

5. Track the construction process

Once construction begins, it's important to stay involved and informed. You should schedule regular meetings with your builder to discuss the progress of the project and make sure that everything is on track.

It can be helpful to create a binder or folder to keep all of your documents organized. This will come in handy when you need to reference something later on.

6. Finalize details and enjoy your new custom home in Wilmington, NC

After the permits are approved and construction is completed, it's time to move into your new home. But before you can do that, there are a few final details that need to be taken care of, such as utility hookups and final inspections. Once everything is in order, you'll be able to enjoy your new custom home for years to come.

Conclusion

Building a custom home is a big investment, but it's also an exciting opportunity to create the perfect space for you and your family. By working with a reputable builder and being realistic about your budget, you can turn your dream home into a reality.

If you're thinking about building a custom home in Wilmington, NC, contact us today. We'll be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get started on your project.