To determine if your lot is suitable for building a home, several factors need to be considered, including the land’s zoning, size, topography, and access to utilities. A site assessment is typically conducted to evaluate these factors, as well as any potential challenges such as soil conditions, flood zones, or environmental restrictions.

Zoning laws determine where and how you can build. You’ll need to ensure your property is in a zone that allows residential construction, with proper allowances for setbacks, height, and other factors. Zoning information, including setbacks, should always be verified by the property owner with the local municipality. Covenant Homes can help point you in the right direction.

Selecting a trustworthy builder with experience in custom homes and knowledge of the area is a top concern. See why our clients choose to work with Covenant Homes. Read through our client testimonials here.

Each custom built home and build lot are unique and so is the cost. Covenant Homes is happy to provide pricing for any of our models. Additionally, Covenant Homes performs a lot assessment to determine site-related costs, which may include site work, demolition (if applicable), impact fees (if applicable), utilities, and other miscellaneous items. These site-specific costs are then factored on top of the base price of the home. We can also discuss the custom home plan route more in detail.

Yes, almost everyt part of your home is customizable! We use an online platform called CoConstruct, which allows our clients to select and personalize every detail of their home. From design to finishes, you have complete control over the customization process. We’d be happy to discuss this further with you.

The typical build time is approximately 12-15 months once ground is broken. This could vary if your home requires pilings or specialty foundation.

People often ask about connecting water, sewer, electricity, and internet to their property. Our team will work with you to determine what is needed for your custom home build.

To make your home more energy-efficient, some key areas to focus on include high-quality insulation (such as Icynene insulation), energy-efficient windows, smart thermostats, Energy-Star appliances, and LED lighting, which uses less energy and lasts longer than traditional bulbs. There are many other ways to increase efficiency, and we’d be happy to discuss them with you.

You will need a construction loan if you plan on financing the home build.

Building on your own land can be a rewarding experience, but there are several challenges you might encounter, including:

Site Preparation: Depending on the condition of the land, you may need to address issues like clearing trees, grading, or leveling the site, which can add to costs.

Zoning and Permitting: Navigating local zoning laws and obtaining the necessary permits can sometimes be complex. Each area has different regulations, so it’s important to ensure your plans comply with them. We can assist with this process!

Soil and Environmental Factors: The type of soil and environmental conditions on your land can impact the construction process. You may need additional assessments or engineering solutions, especially in flood zones or areas with challenging terrain. We can let you know whether a geotechnical report is required. 

Costs and Budgeting: Building on your own land can sometimes involve unexpected costs. It’s essential to budget for site-specific needs like demolition (if applicable), utilities, and other unforeseen expenses.

You should arrive at your first meeting with a custom home builder well-prepared. This meeting can have a big impact on your future plans. Here are some points to consider when you prepare for the meeting: specs, budget and questions. For more information on this topic, read our blog post – How to Prepare for Meeting with a Custom Home Builder.