How to Build a House From Scratch

Building a new house isn’t just about adding bathroom fixtures and appliances. There is a lot more to consider, including the cost of excavation and preparation before construction begins. In fact, these costs can make up 10 percent to 25 percent of total project costs. These pre-construction considerations include getting proper permits, hiring a team, and preparing the site. Then, once construction starts, it’s important to stick to the budget and not overspend.

In the schematic design phase, a designer and property owner work together to plan what amounts to the bare bones of the home. They determine the number of rooms and features it should have and where they will be located. This includes ensuring the house will take advantage of winter sun and summer shade and how it will be accessed from the street.

This is also the time to establish a budget for the project. It is a good idea to get estimates from contractors at this stage so you know what the project will cost and what options are available. It is a good idea to stay within your budget, but it’s also a good idea to allow for some flexibility in case unexpected expenses arise.

The next step is a detailed blueprint or building plan. This is where most of the key decisions about your house are made, such as how many bedrooms and bathrooms it will have and where the windows should go. It is important to choose a style that fits your lifestyle and is in line with the other homes in the neighborhood.

Once the plans are finalized, construction can begin. This is a very exciting time as your dream house will start to come to life. During this time, the builder will install insulation and drywall. Then, the plumbing and electrical systems will be installed. At this point, you may start to see trade-specific contractors working on your project, such as HVAC technicians, plumbers, electricians, painters, and roofers.

After the drywall is up, carpenters will install trim and doors, and your home will begin to look more finished. This is also when the exterior materials will be installed, such as bricks or siding.

The construction process can be a long and drawn-out affair, so it’s important to create a detailed schedule and stick to it. This will ensure the project stays on track and is completed in a timely manner. It will also help the contractor stay on budget. In addition, a well-defined schedule helps prevent change orders, which can add to the overall construction costs. The most important thing to remember is that the more changes are made during the construction process, the higher the final cost will be. This is because change orders require the contractor to work with a variety of subcontractors and suppliers to ensure the changes are in line with local codes and building requirements. These additional costs can add up quickly and make your project more expensive than it needs to be.