What work goes into a custom home?

What is a Custom Home Project

A custom home project refers to the process of designing and building a home specifically tailored to the unique preferences, needs, and lifestyle of the homeowner. Unlike pre-designed or spec homes, a custom home is typically created from scratch or with significant modifications, allowing for complete control over the layout, design, materials, and finishes.

Key Steps

Initial Consultation: Homeowners meet with architects or designers to discuss their vision, budget, and any specific requirements they have for the home (e.g., number of rooms, special features, energy efficiency, etc.).

Design Phase: Architects and designers create detailed plans based on the homeowner’s preferences, often including floor plans, 3D renderings, and elevations.
Approval and Permits: Once the design is finalized, necessary permits and approvals from local authorities are obtained.
Construction: The home is built according to the approved plans, involving various contractors, such as general contractors, builders, electricians, and plumbers.
Finishing Touches: After the structural work is completed, the home is finished with interior and exterior details, such as flooring, cabinetry, paint, and landscaping.

Key Project Players

Architect: Designs the home and coordinates with the builder.
Builder/General Contractor: Oversees day-to-day construction.
Subcontractors: Specialists like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.
Surveyors: Measure land boundaries and elevation for accurate planning.
Inspectors: Ensure that the work meets building codes and safety standards.

How we can help you

1. Project Planning and Design

– Review Plans and Specifications: We thoroughly review the architectural plans, blueprints, and design specifications to understand the project scope and timeline.

– Create a Project Schedule: We develop a detailed timeline for the entire construction process, identifying milestones and deadlines for each phase of the project.
– Estimate Costs: We provide a detailed cost estimate for materials, labor, permits, and other expenses, helping to ensure the project stays within budget.

2. Hiring and Managing

– Supervision: We ensure that subcontractors perform their work according to the schedule, quality standards, and safety regulations. We coordinate the various trades to keep the project moving smoothly and on time.

3. Managing Materials and Supplies

– Procurement: BGC sources and orders construction materials, fixtures, and other supplies needed for the home, ensuring that they arrive on time.
– Inventory and Delivery: We ensure that materials are properly stored on-site and delivered according to the construction schedule.

4. Securing Permits and Inspections

– Permitting: We handle the application and coordination for any necessary building permits and ensures that all legal requirements are met before starting construction.
– Inspections: We coordinate required inspections at various stages of the construction (e.g., foundation, electrical, plumbing) to comply with local codes and regulations.

5. Monitoring Budget and Progress

– Tracking Costs: BGC keeps track of expenses throughout the project, ensuring that the work stays within budget and adjusting if necessary.
– Addressing Delays: If there are delays or issues, we are responsible for resolving them to keep the project on schedule.

6. Quality Control

– Inspecting Work: BGC regularly inspects the work being done to ensure it meets quality standards and adheres to the design specifications.
– Ensuring Compliance: We ensure that all construction adheres to local building codes, zoning laws, and other regulatory requirements.

7. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

– Addressing Issues: If unexpected problems arise (e.g., structural issues, changes in material availability, or design modifications), the BGC is responsible for finding solutions.
– Change Orders: If the homeowner requests changes to the design or materials during construction, we manage and document those changes, updating budgets and schedules accordingly.

8. Final Walk-Through and Handover

– Completion: Once construction is complete, we conduct a final walk-through with the homeowner to ensure that everything is finished to satisfaction.
Punch List: BGC addresses any remaining minor issues or corrections that need to be made before handing over the keys to the homeowner.

9. Post-Construction Support

– Warranty: Many general contractors offer a warranty period after construction is completed, during which they handle any necessary repairs or adjustments that arise. Personally, we offer 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty.

Overall, the general contractor, Baldpates General Contracting, acts as the main point of contact throughout the project, handling logistics, managing the team, ensuring quality, and troubleshooting any issues that come up during construction. They are essential in making sure the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the homeowner’s satisfaction.

Tyler Smedley