Building a new home from scratch is one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do. Instead of settling for a house that’s almost perfect, you get to design every single detail to match the home you’ve always dreamed of.
But before the walls go up, a ton of decisions await – permits, contractors, materials, timelines, and so much more.
This checklist is designed to guide you step by step so you stay organized and relaxed during your home building project.
1. Know your budget from the get-go
Before you do anything else, you need a clear picture of what you can comfortably spend on your new build. That means your building costs, but also land, permits, and professional fees – which add up pretty quickly.
And don’t forget to add a little wiggle room (about 10% to 15%) to your budget to cover any unexpected expenses that might pop up along the way.
2. Get pre-approved for financing
Once you’ve worked out your budget, chat with a trusted lender about your financing options. This is how you’ll know exactly how much you can borrow, how much you might need to set aside to pay out of pocket, and what your overall price range is.
With a clear picture of your spending power, you can move forward with the peace of mind that the cost of your dream home is within your reach. And just as importantly, it shows builders and architects that you’re serious about the build.
3. Pick land or a lot that suits your house plan
Your lot is literally the foundation for everything that comes next. And while location is important, don’t stop there.
Think about things like zoning laws, utility access, and how the land’s features (slope, soil quality, drainage, etc.) could affect your building costs. The trick is to find a site that’ll support your plans without putting you over budget.
A good real estate agent can be a huge help here. They’ll know the local market, assist you in comparing different lots, and flag any challenges you might not notice on your own.
4. Find a custom building team that understands your ideas and goals
With your land secured, it’s time to find the right expert to build your home. This person will be your most important partner in the process. You’ll want to find a builder with a strong reputation and a portfolio of homes you truly admire. Look for someone who listens to your ideas and respects your budget.
And remember, building a home is a collaborative process, so clear and open communication is a must. Choose someone who keeps you in the loop at every step and is responsive to your questions and concerns. Don’t settle for less than you (or your dream home) deserve!
5. Take care of required permits and paperwork
Before you swing a hammer, make sure all the boring (but important!) paperwork is squared away. This includes planning permissions, proper permits, and any other approvals your project needs.
Getting these sorted early saves a lot of stress and protects you from fines or delays that could derail your build. The good news? Your contractor will know the ropes, understand building codes, and help make sure everything is submitted and stamped correctly.
6. Decide on your custom home design with the help of your contractor
Now for the fun part! You’ll work closely with your custom builder or an architect to design your home and get your ideas on paper. You’ll decide on everything from the room layouts to where the windows will go, balancing your wishlist with your budget and your lot’s unique features.
If you need some advice, your contractor can suggest small changes or layout tweaks that honor your ideas while staying on budget and following the rules.
7. Plan your utilities, infrastructure, and energy efficiency
This is the stage where you’ll plan the home’s essential internal systems – the things you don’t see but can’t live without. You’ll work with your builder to think through everything from sewer lines and electrical to your heating and cooling systems and how you’ll get internet access.
It’s also the time to think about energy efficiency and your home’s exterior. The right insulation, HVAC system, and even window placement can make your home far more comfortable and significantly lower your long-term energy bills.
Options like blow-in insulation are especially effective for sealing small gaps in walls, attics, and areas of the home’s exterior. It keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer.
8. Choose materials and finishes
From flooring, countertops, and cabinetry to lighting, fixtures, and beyond, every choice you make matters to the overall look and feel of your home.
The materials you choose for the exterior walls (like brick, stone, or siding) affect the curb appeal of your home. For the interior walls, think about paint, wall textures, or finishes that fit your lifestyle.
Just remember, while style matters, durability is just as important. Some materials are more resistant to mold, wood rot, or water damage than others. Making smart picks now will save you from expensive repairs and replacements later.
Locking down these decisions early helps your builder plan and makes sure your dream home turns out exactly the way you imagined.
Wrapping up!
Building your dream house from the ground up is a big undertaking, but with the right home building checklist, it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. From setting your budget and securing financing to site preparation, choosing the right builder, and planning every design detail, each step brings you closer to a custom home that’s 100% you.
Build a custom home with Stancek
The Stancek Design + Build team is here to help you design a home from scratch, tailored to your style, your needs, and the way you live your life. Every plan is customized around your ideas, so your home will reflect your personality, not someone else’s design.
Looking for inspiration for your new construction? Explore our collection of premium floor plans, from the cozy, single-story charm of The Charlotte to the spacious, family-friendly layout of The Oakmont. There’s a design to spark every imagination.
