Frequently Asked Questions

1.      How much does it cost per square foot to build a house?

That is up to you! There are many variables affecting cost when designing and building a custom home. Because of this, there is no set price. Instead we work closely with our customers from the start to determine how to get the most out of your budget.

2.      Where do I start?

The first thing prospective homeowners need to do is determine how much they can afford to spend on their new home. Some lending institutions will provide construction loans and permanent financing in a one-time close.

The second step is to purchase a lot or land and design blueprints to fit the landscape. Once you have a full set of working blueprints, it is time to seek a builder. It is usually a good idea to get three bids.

3.      How long does it take to build a home?

It can take anywhere from 6-9 months depending on the size and complexity of your home. There are several uncontrollable factors such as HOA approval, permits, weather, material delays and subcontractor availability.

4.      How involved will I be in selecting fixtures, flooring, paint colors, and other finishes?

A custom home by definition means that the homeowner has a say in construction details and finishes. There are usually 10-15 allowances included in every construction bid that are determined by the homeowner and the builder. You will know up front how much you have to spend on things like lighting, appliances, plumbing fixtures, and hardware.

5.      Who pays the bills?

We can work within a variety of financing options. Most lending institutions have a draw schedule that has to be signed by the owner and the builder with periodic inspections to determine the completion of the work. We have also built homes using the cost-plus method. A cost-plus contract is a construction contract under which the contractor gets paid for all construction-related expenses plus an agreed upon profit (usually a percentage). The term “plus” refers to the profit to be earned by the contractor.

6.      What size homes do you build?

We have been in business for over 30 years and have built over 100 homes in and around the New Braunfels area. We have built everything from 1500 sq/ft garden homes to 4000+ sq/ft custom homes. There is no house too small or too big for us to consider.

7.      In what areas do you build?

We are a licensed and bonded contractor in the City of New Braunfels, and we have built many homes in the surrounding counties of Comal, Guadalupe, and Bexar.

8.      Do I need to hire a designer?

That is up to you! Julie will help guide you through the selection process in terms of vendors, ordering timelines, samples, and pricing.

9.      Do you provide a home warranty at the end of construction?

We have a standard one-year surety coverage against defects in workmanship and materials. There are extended warranty packages that can be included in the bid.

10.  What can I do when building a house to save money long term on energy costs?

Probably the two biggest factors in saving energy costs are the windows and insulation you choose for your home. We recommend using foam insulation and high-end vinyl windows. We also use high efficiency air conditioners and gas heat. You can also look into a solar-panel system which could always be added later.