If You've Done A Custom Build-Thoughts & Suggestions?

Snowpuppy · ‎03-09-2010

After house hunting for several months and coming up empty, I'm researching a custom or semi-custom build.

I found a set of stock home plans that would work with some tweeking by an architect. I know the area I want to build and I've looked at some acreage but nothing I'm in love with.

I've talked to 2 builders so far. One didn't travel to the area where I want to build, the other didn't seem interested in a modest plan, only McMansions.

If you've done a custom build from the ground up, would you do it again? What was your experience?

TIA!

shesallthat · ‎03-09-2010

we are planning to do this when our youngest son graduates high school. i had a friend that did this a few years ago and remember how it stressed her out so much!!! her husband was often away on biz so she was the one that had to go out to the site whenever a problem or question popped up and that seemed to be too often!! she said she would never do it again.

i have had my plan picked out for a few years now. i knew exactly what i wanted and it is perfect as it is - i hope!! good luck with yours!

Snowpuppy · ‎03-09-2010

That's what I'm looking at too, empty nest but yet several years.......okay a decade or more away from retirement! Ideally, I'd like it to be paid off before I retire.

Make sure you have someone review or update your plans as required by code in the area you want to build.

Do you already own the lot or are you looking in the area?

ennui1 · ‎06-23-2013

It will take longer than you expect.

It will cost more than you expect.

You will find things that don't work as expected, and you'll need to chase people down to have them come back and fix it.

curlywhitedog · ‎03-09-2010

Been there, done that. It was fun at 35 but I doubt I could do it again at 65 ${#emotions_dlg.thumbdown}$ . It was crazy running around picking out bathroom fixtures, flooring, kitchen appliances, carpeting...no thank you, not anymore, don't have the energy.

Heck, I did a kitchen remodel 7 years ago and that was stressful enough, doubtful I could ever do a "from the ground up build" anymore.

Maria

shesallthat · ‎03-09-2010

On 6/8/2014 Snowpuppy said:
That's what I'm looking at too, empty nest but yet several years.......okay a decade or more away from retirement! Ideally, I'd like it to be paid off before I retire.

Make sure you have someone review or update your plans as required by code in the area you want to build.

Do you already own the lot or are you looking in the area?

no we do not own it yet - my DH has a friend that has more property than he can handle and told him he would gladly sale several acres to us when we get ready. he has a couple of sons but they do not want to live out in the country like he was hoping!

Allegheny · ‎03-19-2010

On 6/8/2014 curlywhitedog said:
Been there, done that. It was fun at 35 but I doubt I could do it again at 65 ${#emotions_dlg.thumbdown}$ . It was crazy running around picking out bathroom fixtures, flooring, kitchen appliances, carpeting...no thank you, not anymore, don't have the energy.

Heck, I did a kitchen remodel 7 years ago and that was stressful enough, doubtful I could ever do a "from the ground up build" anymore.

Maria

Same here. We even cleared most of the property ourselves. Though I might consider another ground up. You really learn a lot after doing one. I was told you make most of your mistakes with your first build and your second house turns out to be the one your want.

There are so many things to think about, septic, well, underground utilities, permits. I don't know how I did it working full time.

RedTop · ‎09-01-2010

Our home was custom built 33 years ago, when I was young and had far more energy and tolerance than I have today. It is not something I would care to repeat, unless my husband wins the lottery and we have LOTS of money to pay for a turn-key job. I continue to be very happy with my home, and we are very comfortable here. The upgrades we have made through the years will enable us to continue living here as we age.

However, IF I were building a house today, I would definitely go for one level with attached garage---no half basement like we have now. I would also think handicapped accessible, which would include wider door frames throughout the entire house, a wider hallway, as well as easy access showers, raised toilets, and durable floor coverings such as ceramic tile and hardwood. I would also look at low maintenance ideas inside and out, and sprayed insulation as well as other energy saving features. I personally would focus solely on building a sound and comfortable, energy efficient home. Best wishes and much success to you with this big project!

Meeras · ‎02-06-2014

i m looking at as well.

luvmyteddy4 · ‎09-04-2010

One time in the early 70s. It was fun at that age but I wouldn't do it again. We lucked out and got a good builder that worked with us. My ex who knew a lot about everything kept tabs on him at all times. It worked and we got a beautiful home. It's been torn down for a shopping center which was a huge shock to me when I drove out to see it one more time.

It does take longer than you think

It does cost more than you plan for - you will want to upgrade from builders grade

I would pick a ranch if you plan on staying there - no more steps for me