Building a custom-made house is an exciting experience. However, you need to be careful when doing so to avoid mistakes and challenges that might come up. In this post, we look at some of the most important things you need to consider before you construct your custom home.
Site Location
The location of the site will determine the amount of time the builder will take to complete the project. So you need to find the right land. There are several steps you can take. First, decide how you will use the land once the house is complete. This will enable you to come up with a good plan and select the right location. You also need to consider the neighboring properties. It is good the size, shape and overall appearance of the house match other properties in the vicinity. You also need to understand zoning.
Financing
Getting a loan for a custom-made home is quite different from a home that is already constructed. The process can be long and overwhelming. You need to identify the right financier, look for quotes from builders, gather the necessary documents and even involve lawyers. There are several institutions that can help you get a loan for a custom home. These include Wells Fargo, Citi Bank, JP Morgan and Bank of America. These banks provide up to one year of financing. Once the home is complete, they allow you to convert it into a permanent mortgage. However, you must be fully aware of the interest rates before you finalize any financial plan. Some banks have interests that change during the building process. This can have a negative impact on the amount you pay regularly.
House Plan
Before you begin building the house, you need to create a final copy of the floor plan. Make sure you get a qualified architect to do the planning. He should be able to complete at least 95 percent of the plan before you can begin the construction process. While change orders to the original plan are inevitable, a good architect should be able to execute them without any additional costs. The architect should also make the changes in a manner that will satisfy your needs and preferences.
Permits
Permits are established by the government to protect homeowners and the environment. They consist of checks and balances that ensure that a structure is constructed according to the state and federal regulations. The building permit requirements depend on the state you are living in. Check with your state department to know what kinds of permits you need for your construction project. It takes days to weeks to receive a permit, so don’t wait until it is late to apply for one. Before approving your application, the building department will review the home plan, system design and other specifications to ensure they are up to the set standards.
Once you secure the building permit, keep in mind that it will only be valid for a certain period of time. Hence, your builder should work and complete the project within this period. You may also need to amend the permit during the building process, especially if you have made major changes to the original plan. In addition to the permit, inspectors will carry out periodic inspections on the site to determine if all the building codes are being observed.
Contact Alair Homes Solon to make your dream home a reality!