Article 1

Understanding Your Options

Turning your dream home into reality is an exciting process. This blog post will guide you through two popular approaches available in the Houston area: hiring a traditional custom builder or being your own builder by partnering with Built Green Custom Homes.

Understanding the Options:

Custom Builder: A traditional custom builder manages permits, controls the money, uses their own vendors and subcontractors, and oversees construction. This approach requires less owner involvement but comes at a premium cost.
Owner-Builder: As an owner-builder, you're in the driver's seat, controlling every aspect from design and permits to hiring subcontractors and managing construction. This approach requires more time commitment but is rewarding and can lead to substantial savings.

Pros of Owner-Builder (with Built Green Custom Homes' Support):

Control: As an owner-builder, you have full authority over every aspect of the project, from material selections to construction budget and hiring subcontractors.
Cost Savings: Owner-builders stand to reduce overall project costs by eliminating the markup that is typically imposed by custom builders. On average, Built Green Custom Homes owner-builders save 20%. That's 20% more instant equity.
Lower Builder Fee: The Built Green Custom Homes consulting fee is generally 3-5% of the total construction cost. In comparison to an average of 20% from a traditional custom builder.
Customization: Owner-builders have control over the design, selections, and complete customization of the home due to being directly involved in the decision-making process.
Rewarding: How many people can say they have “built their own home”? Building your own home should be a rewarding experience that provides life-long memories for you and your family.
Flexibility: Adjustments to design, schedule, and budget can be made throughout the process.

Cons of Owner-Builder:

Lack of Expertise: Managing a construction project can be challenging without prior experience. Built Green Custom Homes offers industry leading tools, resources, and guidance to bridge this gap.
Vendors and Contractors: Locating reputable vendors and contractors can be a challenging and time-consuming task. Built Green Custom Homes has established relationships with vendors and contractors for every aspect of construction.
Construction Financing: Getting a construction loan in Texas as an owner-builder can be difficult. Fortunately, Built Green Custom Homes has relationships with lenders that allow you to build your own home while utilizing BGCH consulting services.
Time Commitment: Requires time investment to make decisions and selections and oversee construction.

Pros of Custom Builder:

Construction Management: Benefit from the custom builder scheduling and managing vendors and subcontractors.
Paying Vendors and Contractors: The builder requests construction loan draws from the construction lender and is responsible for writing the checks and paying vendors and contractors.
Time Efficiency: Custom builders may have the experience and project management expertise to ensure timely project completion.
Lower Stress: The builder handles all aspects of the construction process, beginning with the permits and ending with the final inspections. A traditional custom builder can relieve these hassles associated with building a custom home.

Cons of Custom Builder:

Higher Costs: The expertise and comprehensive services provided by traditional custom builders come at a higher cost compared to building your own home.
Less Flexibility: Homeowners may have less flexibility in the decision-making and design changes compared to a more hands-on approach.
Change Order Fees: If allowed, modifications during construction may come with highly inflated change order fees.
Limited Control: The builder manages the construction process, potentially reducing your direct influence.

It’s important to acknowledge the potential challenges as well as benefits that can arise with both options. Fortunately, Built Green Custom Homes stands ready to provide guidance and support for homeowners that want to take advantage of the benefits that come with building your own home, ensuring that your vision is brought to life with efficiency and quality. In weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your construction goals and aspirations.