Building a home is exciting, but it’s also a long process with a lot of moving parts. It’s not like buying a house where you pick one, sign papers, and move in. Instead, you have to plan every detail, from the layout to the materials. That’s what makes it fun but also overwhelming if you’re not prepared.
If you’ve never built a home before, you might be wondering: How long does it take? What decisions will I have to make? What unexpected problems could come up? Before you get started, here’s what you need to know to make the process as smooth as possible.
It Takes Longer Than You Think
If you’re expecting to move in quickly, you might be in for a surprise. Building a home usually takes six months to a year, sometimes longer if there are delays.
Here’s why:
- Permits take time. Before construction even starts, you’ll need approval from the city or county. Depending on where you live, this can take weeks or even months.
- Weather can slow things down. Rain, snow, or freezing temperatures can stop work for days or even weeks. If you’re building in an area with harsh winters, planning around the seasons is important.
- Material delays happen. Sometimes, the windows, cabinets, or flooring you chose take longer to arrive, which can push everything back.
If you’re selling your current home or renting, it’s smart to plan for extra time just in case. Having a backup place to stay for a few months can save you a lot of stress if things take longer than expected.
You’ll Have to Make a Lot of Decisions
When you build a house, you’re in charge of every little detail. That means making choices about:
- Floor plans. How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? Do you prefer an open-concept living space?
- Materials. What kind of flooring, countertops, and cabinets do you want?
- Fixtures. What kind of lighting, sinks, and door handles do you like?
- Exterior. Do you want brick, stone, or siding?
Some of these decisions are fun, but others can feel overwhelming especially when you have to choose between a dozen different types of faucets or light switches. Working with an experienced builder can help, as they often offer pre-selected packages so you don’t have to start from scratch.
The Land Matters as Much as the House
A lot of people focus on the home itself and forget about the land its being built on. But the location and condition of your lot can affect everything, from the design of your home to the total cost.
Before construction starts, consider:
- Zoning laws. Some areas have restrictions on home size, design, and even driveway placement.
- Soil and drainage. Certain types of land need extra work before a home can be built, which can be costly.
- Utilities. Not all lots have water, gas, and electricity already connected, and installing them can add thousands to the budget.
If you’re thinking about new home construction twin cities, working with a builder who knows the area can help you avoid surprises. They’ll know what land is easiest (and most affordable) to build on.
Your Budget Will Change
Most people underestimate the cost of building a house. The base price a builder gives you usually doesn’t include everything. There are always extra expenses, like:
- Permits and fees. Required for every new home.
- Upgrades. If you want premium flooring, smart home features, or high-end finishes, they cost extra.
- Landscaping and driveways. Many builders don’t include grass, trees, or paved driveways in the base price.
- Unexpected issues. Things like bad weather, foundation problems, or material shortages can increase costs.
A good rule of thumb is to set aside at least 10-20% extra for unexpected expenses.
The Home Won’t Be Perfect at First
When you move into a brand-new home, you expect everything to be perfect. But even newly built houses have small issues that need fixing.
It’s normal to find:
- Minor paint touch-ups are needed.
- A door that sticks or a cabinet that isn’t aligned just right.
- Small cracks in the walls from the house settling.
Most builders offer a final walkthrough before you move in, where you can point out anything that needs to be fixed. Even after moving in, many builders offer a warranty period where they’ll repair small problems that come up.
Energy Efficiency Pays Off
A big advantage of building a new home is that you can include energy-efficient features from the start. This saves money on bills and makes your home more comfortable year-round.
Some smart energy upgrades include:
- LED lighting. Uses less electricity and lasts longer.
- Smart thermostats. Automatically adjust the temperature to save energy.
- Well-insulated windows and doors. Keep heat inside in winter and outside in summer.
- Solar panels cost more upfront but can lower electricity bills over time.
If you’re thinking about adding energy-efficient upgrades, it’s easier (and cheaper) to install them during construction rather than after the house is built.
Storage Is More Important Than You Think
A common mistake people make when designing their home is not planning enough storage. Once you move in, you’ll realize how important it is.
Some smart storage ideas include:
- Built-in shelves to save space.
- A walk-in pantry for the kitchen.
- Mudrooms or entryway storage for coats and shoes.
- Overhead storage in the garage for tools and seasonal items.
Thinking about storage early on prevents clutter later.
Building a Home Requires Patience, But It’s Worth It
Building a home takes time, money, and a lot of decisions, but the end result is a house designed just for you. Unlike buying an older home, you won’t have to worry about outdated features, weird layouts, or unexpected repairs. Everything is brand-new and exactly how you want it.
The key to making it a great experience? Plan ahead, work with a good builder, and be patient. Delays, extra costs, and small problems will happen but, in the end, you’ll have a home that fits your life perfectly.