My husband has been a home builder in Grande Prairie for 25+ years. During that time we have built countless homes for clients and ourselves alike. This makes me a uniquely qualified on the process of buying (and building) a custom home so I thought I'd share my top advice for buying a custom home!

1. Start Early!

There is a lot of planning and paperwork that goes into building a home from the ground up. Before a speck of dirt is moved many decisions need to be made including:

• • • • Which builder will you use?
      • What will the floor plan be?
      • Do you own a parcel of land or will that be bought from the builder?
      • What is your maximum all in budget? Is bank financing already approved?
      • Will the builder receive draw payments or a completion only payment?

Whether you’re general contracting yourself or hiring a builder all of these decisions need to be made. Once they are made then then it's time for paperwork with permit applications, new home warranty, and energy efficiency calculations. 

2. Set a Realistic Timeline

Depending on the builder's schedule and the scope of the project a custom home can take anywhere from 9 months to a couple of years! With custom homes there are almost always delays so I suggest adding a couple of months to your projected schedule to keep expectations in check. 

3. Have a Budget

Selecting all of the finishes, millwork, and colours can be incredibly fun however you need to know your home budget. It's easy for one $1500-$5000 upcharge at time to add up to tens of thousands of dollars that wasn't accounted for. I recommend discussing budgets with your builder for everything (cabinets, tile, millwork, exterior finishes, etc) and then when selecting products that stay within those guidelines. Additionally, if you have an extra 15% of the project total set aside for a contingency fund that can also help alleviate stress for overages that are very likely to occur. 

4. Use the Experts

A reputable home builder in Grande Prairie will have built many homes over the years so they know what they're doing and can be an invaluable resource for you! They have spent years dedicated to their craft giving them insight into things you don't even know you don't know! Ask questions, and take advantage of their knowledge! 

5. Trust the Process

Building a home is a huge financial investment which can be quite stressful. There are hundreds of tiny decisions (where do lights and electrical sockets go) and major decisions (floorplan and exterior colour) that can start to feel overwhelming. If you have a good plan in step 1 and a great builder, all of these choices are easier, and can maybe even make the process fun! 

BONUS TIP: Did you know that as your Realtor® I can assist you with buying a custom home? I can walk alongside you as you choose the builder, negotiate items you'd like included, and use my 25+ years in the building industry for your benefit!

If you are thinking of building a custom home in Grande Prairie or hiring a builder to get one built, Helen Harder Real Estate would love to help!