Custom Home Builder FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Custom Home Builder FAQ

Dreams 2 Reality has the answers

Here are some of the questions we hear most often. If you have any other questions, please contact us. We have the answers.

Can I afford a custom home?

For years the big myth promoted by real estate agents and speculative builders has been that a custom home is more expensive than a spec house. Actually the opposite is true! Keep in mind that a custom home does not carry the burden of a big real estate commission. Nor does it share the “interest carry” fee of builders’ homes which are finished, ready to be sold, and incur interest charges for each day they are unoccupied!

You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how inexpensive a custom home can be. You’ll be even more surprised at the difference in a quality home designed and built not only for your budget, but your lifestyle!

How long does it take to build a custom home?

From the time we start, we will normally take 6-8 months to complete your home but there are factors such as size, complexity of your plan, and difficulty of your lot that can affect the build time. We will review these factors with you before we start.

How can I be assured that I am getting the best price on the new home?

Dreams 2 Reality has established a working relationship with the very best vendors and subcontractors in our area. These dedicated individuals not only provide professional work, but perform their work at a fair price.

Our Mission at Dreams 2 Reality is “To work with our clients to provide a home of exceptional quality and enduring value.” At Dreams 2 Reality we take our mission seriously. Working hand-in-hand with our clients, we are able to ensure that your new home will be a sound investment which will compliment your lifestyle for many years to come, all at a price thousands of dollars below that of the average new home.

How can I be assured there will be no cost over-runs on the construction of my new home?

Dreams 2 Reality provides a complete “line item” cost breakdown of every item in your home. Unless you decide to make changes from your original plans and specifications, you should not have problems building within your allotted cost.

However, we do carry that one step further. We review the cost breakdown with you on a regular basis. You will know exactly where you stand at all times during the construction of your new home. If you’re running a little over budget, we’ll suggest areas that can be adjusted to save money. If you’re under budget, you might want to upgrade your allowance for flooring, light fixtures, etc.

What if I need help with my selections?

Dreams 2 Reality can refer an interior designer and due to years of experience with previous customers can help with selections. In addition, Dreams 2 Reality’s longtime vendors are very helpful and knowledgeable on current design trends.

Do you use the same subcontractors on every job?

Most of Dreams 2 Reality subcontractors have been used for over 18 years and understand the high-level quality expected.

Should I talk with a builder or find plans first?

We can work with both scenarios, but here are some thoughts. Most home owners are working from a budget which must accommodate the home construction itself along with the lot, site improvements, etc.

A builder will not be able to give you an exact cost without a blue print and set of specifications, but he or she should be able to give you a cost range (usually expressed as dollars per square foot at this point) based on your concept combined with the builder’s past experience and the lot you intend to build on. This ballpark range of costs can help you refine your expectations for house size and amenities before you invest time and money in a blueprint.