First things first - congratulations on building a new home!
The decision build a new home has most likely been on your mind a while, and fairly enough there is a general unease about the entire process. If you’ve never done it before, building can seem like a huge project and a hassle, despite the fact that it is extremely exciting. One of the biggest questions asked and milled over is, how long does it take to build a new home?
Average Build Time
It’s difficult to say as contractor, crew size, and home size can and will play a part, but roughly estimating, it’s fair to say anywhere between six to twelve months. However, if the project is especially big or you still need someone to draw up a floor plan, this time may be extended. Depending on who you choose to complete your project, they should also be able to give you an estimate of how long it will take, and what they’ll need from you in the meantime, if anything.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions
When you meet with a contractor they’ll have a lot of information for you, but don’t be afraid to ask questions to! Ask them about problems they’ve had on past projects and how that was calculated in. Ask them about the hardest home they built. Ask about the prices of their materials and if it’s been going up or down. As of right now, we all know that the lumber prices are high and supply chains are low. Rest assured, contractors know all of this and know how it will affect them and you. They are the best one’s to ask. And it’s ok to ask more than one. You don’t have to settle with a contractor just because they were the one you spoke to. Different companies may have different access, so try and meet with a few contractors before settling.
Your region and weather can help or hinder. Keep in mind that crews will be working outside to build your home until there is an actual structure, and there are some things that simply cannot be done in the rain or snow. More than likely your contractor will factor in average weather, but if you have a bad storm season or something that causes damage and creates a setback, you need to be prepared to take a deep breath and roll with the punches. If something happens, your contractor will let you know how it’s going to get fixed, how long it will take, and how much it will cost you. Contractors don’t want delays anymore than you do, but if you really feel like you’ve made the wrong choice with a contractor, you may want to take a look at your contract.
Before settling with a contractor and signing anything, you should have your own legal council and have an attorney look over the contract for you. Your attorney will be able to go through piece by piece and see where the real pit falls are. If you’re really concerned about being too locked into a contract, an attorney may be able to wiggle the wording to keep a way out for you. Regardless of the reason, it is always recommended that you seek council before signing. Building a home is an investment, and an attorney looking over your contract is one of the best ways you can keep it safe.
If you decide to build your home, try and have fun with it. It may be a bit stressful, and lumber may be pricey, and contractors may be hard to talk to, but by the end of it you will have a home that is just for you and your family. And six months to a year is nothing compared to the rest of your life, so be patient and kind while you wait.
