Part 1 - Custom Home Building: What is the role of a custom home builder?

Oct 31, 2017

Building a home can be a complicated process, one best managed by a professional. As you set out on a custom home building or large-scale renovation project, it’s helpful to understand all the role of the builder. It can help more effectively manage your expectations throughout the process.

  • A good custom home builder serves as a collaborative member of the design team, an advocate for the homeowner as well as the key person responsible for managing the construction process to create exactly what the homeowner envisions.
  • The home builder works together with the homeowner and design team to help establish a realistic budget for the project and then oversees the costs throughout the construction process. A homeowner can yield significant savings by including a builder early in the process as he/she can often recommend the most cost-efficient features.
  • The builder will contract with the owner for an agreed to construction price and track all costs. It is also the builder’s responsibility to submit requests to the bank for construction loan withdrawals; prepare estimates for change orders and collect payment from homeowner for agreed upon changes; and provide lien release waivers for all completed work.
  • The home builder coordinates all the players and acquisition of products needed to transform a set of architectural plans into a livable home.
    • The builder is the primary contact with the building inspectors, municipal departments, subcontractors and the design team.
    • The home builder is responsible for securing all permits, managing and obtaining all approvals, inspections, and obtaining the certificate of occupancy.
    • The home builder engages all needed subcontractors throughout the design and construction process to ensure all building techniques and specifications are incorporated into the home and meet building code.
    • The builder will order, confirm, and accept all building materials and components prior to installation.
  • As the general manager for the job, it is the home builder’s responsibility to keep the job on schedule. Behind the scenes, the home builder is constantly adjusting timelines that may change as a result of weather, product delays, or a subcontractor taking ill.
  • Upon completion, the builder and homeowner will review the project for any outstanding items, create a punch list and work with the subcontractors to resolve any issues. After final inspections and certificate of occupancy is issued, the builder will deliver the project to the owner. Keep in mind, upon delivery of the home there may be minor items that remain incomplete due to weather or manufacturer delays.
  • The builder will educate the owner on the operation and maintenance of the house and all internal systems, and provide warranty as required by local jurisdictions.

Good builders add value to the process with years of experience, their established professional relationships, and knowledge of the process that make it all come together successfully.

Contact us to learn more about how Raven Homes can add value to your next custom home building project.



Tags: