How Long Does It Take To Build A New Home?

If you’re considering building a custom home, one of the biggest questions you’ll likely have is, “How long is this going to take?” For Devonshire Custom Homes, the typical timeline for building a home ranges from 6 to 18 months. However, the actual duration can vary depending on several factors like the size of the home, the complexity of the design, and any unforeseen delays. Larger homes or homes with intricate designs and custom features may take even longer, extending beyond 18 months.

Understanding the full process and the elements that impact the timeline can help set expectations, ensuring you’re prepared for each phase of the project. Let’s break down the key stages of building a new home and explore how the timeline might vary for different types of homes.

Stages of Building a Custom Home

Building a home is a multi-phase process that requires detailed planning, coordination, and execution. Below is an overview of the key stages that take place from concept to completion:

Initial Design and Planning (2 to 4 months):

The design phase is the foundation of your custom home. This is when you’ll work closely with architects and designers to create a layout that fits your vision, budget, and lifestyle. The amount of time spent in this phase largely depends on how custom the home will be. If you’re building a home based on a previously designed floor plan, this phase may move quickly. However, if you’re designing every detail from scratch, expect the process to take longer, as revisions and approvals can extend the timeline.

Permitting and Approvals (1 to 3 months):

Once the design is finalized, the next step is securing the necessary building permits. This process can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months depending on your local municipality and the specific regulations that apply to your project. In areas with stringent building codes or during periods of high construction demand, this phase can take longer. Delays in the permitting process are not uncommon, but Devonshire Custom Homes works closely with local authorities to ensure everything is processed as efficiently as possible.

Site Preparation and Foundation Work (1 to 2 months):

After permits are in hand, the physical construction begins with site preparation. This involves clearing the land, grading the soil, and laying the foundation. Depending on the complexity of the site, such as if it’s sloped or requires special excavation work, this phase can take longer. For most standard lots, this process will take about 1 to 2 months.

Construction (4 to 12+ months):

Once the foundation is set, the construction of your home can begin. This phase includes framing, electrical work, plumbing, roofing, and installing all the interior features. The timeline for this stage will depend on the size and complexity of the home. A small to mid-sized home with a relatively simple design can take around 4 to 6 months to complete, while larger homes with custom features, such as gourmet kitchens, outdoor living spaces, or specialty rooms, can take up to 12 months or more. Estate-style homes or homes with intricate architectural elements may even stretch beyond 18 months, particularly if there are delays in sourcing custom materials.

Types of Homes and How Their Timelines Vary

The size and design of your home are two of the most significant factors that determine how long the building process will take. Here’s a closer look at the different types of homes Devonshire Custom Homes builds and their typical timelines:

• Small to Mid-Sized Homes (6 to 12 months):
  For smaller custom homes—usually between 2,000 and 3,000 square feet—the construction timeline is generally between 6 to 12 months. These homes often follow more standard floor plans and don’t require highly specialized materials or construction techniques. This makes them faster to build compared to larger, more customized homes.
• Larger Custom Homes (12 to 18 months):
  Homes that are 4,000 square feet or larger, or that have multiple levels, unique architectural details, and custom features, typically take 12 to 18 months to complete. These homes might include more advanced systems, such as integrated smart home technology, custom lighting, or energy-efficient building materials, which can add time to the construction process.
• Luxury Estate Homes (18+ months):
  For high-end, luxury homes that are fully customized with elaborate designs and specialty features, the timeline can easily extend beyond 18 months. Homes in this category often include unique features such as wine cellars, theaters, custom pools, or expansive outdoor living areas, which require more time and specialized craftsmanship. Additionally, sourcing rare or high-end materials for these homes may delay certain aspects of the construction process.

Factors That Can Extend the Building Timeline

While the estimated timeline for building a new home can provide a good baseline, there are several factors that can extend the construction process. Being aware of these potential delays can help you plan accordingly and ensure you’re prepared for the reality of building a custom home:

• Weather:
  Weather is one of the most unpredictable factors in the construction process. Heavy rains, extreme heat, or cold temperatures can delay certain aspects of the build, especially during foundation work or framing. If your home is being built in a region prone to seasonal weather fluctuations, this could impact the overall timeline.
• Supply Chain Delays:
  In recent years, supply chain disruptions have become more common, leading to delays in the availability of building materials. Custom homes that require specialty materials or imported finishes may face longer wait times for delivery, which can extend the construction timeline.
• Changes in Design or Scope:
  One of the most common reasons for timeline extensions is changes made mid-project. While it’s natural to want to make adjustments or add features as construction progresses, significant changes to the design or scope can require additional time for re-planning, ordering new materials, and making structural adjustments.
• Labor Shortages:
  Skilled labor shortages can sometimes affect the timeline, particularly during busy construction seasons. Devonshire Custom Homes works with a reliable network of skilled tradespeople to minimize any potential delays caused by labor shortages.

Final Thoughts

Building a custom home is a significant investment of time, and while the process typically takes between 6 and 18 months, the timeline can vary based on the size and complexity of the home. Devonshire Custom Homes is committed to keeping your project on track and delivering the highest quality craftsmanship. By understanding the different phases of the build and the factors that can impact the timeline, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the process and move into your dream home with confidence.