Before Building

BEFORE YOU BUILD...

So you’ve decided to build a new custom home instead of buying an existing home. There are a number of things to be aware of prior to starting work with Warren Bros. The following information can help you prepare for the building process so that it is a positive experience for you and your family.

STEP ONE: DETERMINE YOUR BUDGET

Most people get started with a budget in mind. Some work with a financial agent whom they trust to help determine a budget that fits their resources.

When financing your home’s payment, something to keep in mind are “extra” fees and costs you will incur with some lenders. These may include:

Loan Origination Fee/Discount Points
Appraisal Fee
Title insurance
Mortgage Regulation Tax
Recording Fee
Underwriting or Document Preparation Fee
Closing Fee
Flood Certification
Independent Property Inspection
Hazard Insurance
Mortgage Insurance
General and Special Taxes
Homeowners Association Dues

STEP TWO: DO SOME RESEARCH

After you’ve determined your budget, and obtained the required financing, take that total and start looking into about how much house you can get on your budget. This will give you a good starting point for the design phase.

Also research items such as WHERE you want to build, schools in the area, what type of construction do you prefer and why, covenants and restrictions in areas you have targeted, and building codes that may restrict your ideas.

Don’t be shy about asking other people who have built custom homes about their experiences.

STEP THREE: ASK YOURSELF SOME QUESTIONS

This will help get the design process started in the right direction. Make a list of things like:

What activities you like to enjoy at home
What your family’s needs are
Where you would prefer to have a great view
Where you plan to watch TV
What your personal tastes are in design styles (exterior: brick, stone or stucco; interior: woods, metals, styles)
What kind of colors you like
Amount and types of storage space you’ll need
Special accommodations
Number of bedrooms
Number of bathrooms
Number of garage stalls
Direction of the sun on your lot
Outdoor activities and landscaping tastes

It also helps to write down what you like about your current home and its features and accessories.