After selecting a new home design that aligns with your lifestyle and prioritizes water and energy efficiency, the next step is to bring that design to life. Your first task is to find a reputable builder who has extensive experience and a commitment to sustainable practices.
Obtain quotes from multiple builders and compare them. When drafting the contract, ensure that it includes a comprehensive description of sustainability measures and specifies the use of particular products
What are the Phases of the New Home Construction Process?
Once the contract is finalized, you can begin the construction process for your home. The construction phases typically include site preparation, foundation laying, framing and roofing, installation of walls, doors, and windows, interior completion, and the final stage of making any necessary adjustments.
The builder may hire subcontractors to carry out specific tasks, so it’s advisable to have a construction supervisor in place to provide immediate answers and make decisions as needed, especially regarding potential substitutions.
Certain stages of the construction may require certifications, and it’s the builder’s responsibility to organize them. Once your home is fully completed, be sure to request an owner’s manual that provides instructions for operating and maintaining your home’s systems.
When embarking on the journey of building a home, you will hire a builder who will transform your home design into reality. The builder will be responsible for constructing your home on your chosen site, potentially subcontracting different tradespeople to complete the necessary work.
If you have construction experience, you may choose to undertake some of the work yourself, but it’s important to note that certain tasks, such as plumbing and electrical work, should be handled by skilled tradespeople.
If you lack experience in home construction, opting for the “do it yourself” approach can be risky and pose potential dangers. Prior to commencing construction, it’s crucial to carefully select your builder, obtain a detailed quote, and establish a comprehensive contract.
Selecting a builder for your new home
After finalizing your home design, the next step is to carefully select a builder. Choosing the right builder is just as important as selecting the designer.
The builder will act as the project manager, overseeing and coordinating all the necessary work. Their responsibilities include supervising tradespeople, managing the sourcing and delivery of materials, and ensuring the quality of the entire construction process.
When searching for a builder, it’s important to find someone who comes highly recommended in your area or who has experience constructing homes similar to yours.
Your designer can provide valuable recommendations based on their industry knowledge and personal experience. Before entering into a contract with a builder, make sure you feel comfortable working with them and that they have the necessary funds to complete the project.
Additionally, verify their experience and skills in building homes, paying special attention to their commitment to sustainable practices. It’s always advisable to choose a builder with knowledge and experience in incorporating sustainable features into their projects.
New Home: Gather Quotes
After selecting one or multiple builders, the next step is to request quotes for the work. Provide them with a copy of your design, along with the project specifications, and ask for a detailed quote. If there are any unclear aspects, be sure to discuss them with the builders. When comparing multiple quotes, consider not only the price but also their commitment and experience.
The builder will estimate the costs involved in the quote. However, it’s important to note that unforeseen circumstances, such as changes in the design, time delays, freight costs, material changes, or unexpected groundwork, may lead to adjustments in the final cost. The builder should address these risks and how they will be managed in the quote. It’s crucial to review and agree with the approach the builder takes in dealing with these potential changes in cost.
Carefully consider the risks and approaches outlined by each builder in their quotes to ensure you are comfortable with their approach and prepared for any potential cost adjustments.
New Home: Contract Signing
There are numerous sources where you can find standard home-building contracts, such as industry peak bodies or lending authorities.
Obtaining and using a contract is essential as it establishes a legally binding agreement between you and the builder and serves as the foundation for dispute resolution, if necessary. It’s important to ensure that the contract is practical and balanced, meeting both your needs and the builder.
The contract should include designated independent arbitrators and clear dispute resolution procedures to facilitate a fair resolution process. Additionally, important attachments should be included, such as the builder’s quote, engineering details, approved plans and specifications, as well as any relevant schedules indicating designated suppliers/contractors, contingency sums, and prime cost items.
Before signing the contract, it is advisable to have it reviewed by your designer and lawyer to ensure its accuracy and alignment with your expectations.
The Construction Process
The estimated time for constructing a single-story brick new home is typically between five to six months, but it may be shorter for timber houses. However, the actual duration will depend on factors such as the builder and the site conditions. Delays can occur due to shortages of tradespeople or materials, as well as weather conditions. The construction process consists of several stages:
1. Site and Foundation: This stage involves site preparation, which may include flattening the ground, constructing retaining walls, or demolishing existing structures. The foundation is then laid, including footings, under-slab drainage, termite protection, and moisture barriers.
2. Framing or Building Shell: Frames and exterior masonry walls are constructed. Roofing, gutters, insulation, and cladding are added. Plumbers and electricians install wiring and pipes for water, power, and gas.
3. Lockup Stage: Windows and doors are installed and checked for proper locking. At this stage, the home is not yet fully weatherproof and secure, so certain tradespeople, like carpenters, tilers, electricians, and plumbers, cannot proceed with their work.
4. Fittings: Electrical essentials, fittings, and fixtures are installed, including cabinets in the bathroom, laundry, and kitchen, as well as tiling, benchtops, tapware, basins, mirrors, baths, and shower screens.
5. Realistic Completion: All installations, painting, and detailing are completed, and the house is ready for final inspection. It is important to thoroughly check everything to ensure it meets your expectations. The installed systems and appliances should be in working order. Note any remaining items that need adjustments before making the final payment. Reliable builders will address these items before handing over the keys to the owner.
Construction Supervision
There should be ongoing supervision to ensure the implementation of sustainable materials and practices. Your builder will be consulted regularly regarding any necessary deviations from the specified procedures and materials due to stock availability or trade preferences. If there is a designated supervisor, builders may seek their input as well.
For assistance with the construction of your new home, you can rely on Oak Creek Builders. Contact us at 903-271-9058 for more details, or you can reach us via email at emily@ocbtexas.com.
