Buy an existing home vs. build from scratch
Reader question: We bought a lot several years ago to build a home, and we are now ready to go forward.
I have gathered some general information, but we’d like to have more of a general idea before we decide between building on our lot and just buying in a subdivision somewhere.
Where can I find information and advice on the building process?
Monty’s answer: There are significant differences between your choices. You will find people that swear by both methods, but the fundamental decision has much to do with your circumstances and how you plan and make decisions.
If two people have agreed on a budget and have similar philosophies and taste, building the house will likely move quickly.If consensus is difficult or indecisive, the process can slow down and become more expensive with time and change orders.
Change orders are written amendments to the building contract that usually creates additional cost. Some homebuyers would love to build from scratch, but their careers or the timing prevent them from making that decision.
Others have busy schedules but still will take on the build from scratch method and find a way to make it work.
Many people who have contracted with a builder believe it is not a complicated process. Your choice of a builder can make a difference.
Significant steps in the home-building process:
THE HOME sITE
setting grade elevations, excavating for utilities and footings for the foundation and basement walls.
CONsTRuCT THE sHEll
assemble the floor deck, frame the exterior and interior walls, install roof trusses and plywood sheeting.
ROuGH-IN MECHANICAl COMPONENTs
plumbing, electrical, plus heating, ventilating, air conditioning ducts and cable or sound system wiring.
INsTAll INsulATION
deck sill, exterior walls, ceilings, garage and other sections, such as basement walls, interior rooms, etcetera.
INsTAll sHEETROCK
finish interior walls with dry wall or plaster textures. Paint or paper walls, install windows and apply exterior finishes.
INsTAll CAbINETRy AND INTERIOR TRIM
install exterior driveways, steps, and walkways.
INsTAll HARD-suRFACE FlOORING
wood, ceramic, and vinyl, plus countertops, and slope the soil grade away.
FINIsH MECHANICAl WORK
electric breaker box, furnace, air conditioning and condenser and registers, sinks, toilets and faucets, and light fixtures, outlets and switches are all installed or completed. Install shower doors, mirrors, and finish flooring (carpeting), and finish exterior landscaping like grass or sod, trees, and shrubs.
Walk-through with the builder — the tour results in the creation of a “punch list” where you observe nicks, scratches, chips and other minor issues.