Building a new home is an investment in your family. While some events are out of anyone’s control including snowstorms, smart planning keeps your timeline – and sanity – intact.
Stick to Deadlines
Builders and architects want to stay on schedule, but they need direction.
Set firm deadlines early, especially your move-in date.
Work backward from that date to structure the timeline.
Be specific. “Plans should take a couple of weeks” is vague. “Foundation pours Oct 15, framing completed by Dec 31” holds people accountable.
Semi-custom or production homes typically follow a tighter schedule than fully custom builds.
Make Decisions Early
Indecision is a top reason projects fall behind. As the homebuyer, it’s crucial for your decisions to be timely.
Settle product and design choices – countertops, fixtures, paint – before construction starts. Limitless choices make this difficult and costly.
Avoid vague plans that can lead to costly rework mid-build. Be specific about electrical outlets and recessed lighting placements.
Hire an interior designer if you need help visualizing the final space. It’s worth the investment.
Show Up for the Pre-Construction Meeting
This is your last chance to confirm choices before the build begins.
Come prepared with questions, even small ones.
Where will floor drain in garage be?
Where will hose bibs be located?
What are the placements of outdoor lighting fixtures?
Where can the attic access be located?
Clarify site visit rules and who to contact during the build.
If you're building with a partner, both should attend. It helps prevent miscommunication later.
Limit Late Changes
Changes after construction starts cost time and money.
A new sink, window, or cabinet style can cause a domino effect of rework and delays.
A good builder will document changes with written change orders that outline time and cost impacts.
Restocking fees will be incurred and special orders may take longer.
Not all changes are a problem – just know what they’ll affect.
Why it matters: Nailing decisions early keeps your build moving forward. A focused homeowner is the best project manager.
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Charlie Wardell
Charlie Wardell is a licensed builder and a writer and editor with more than 20 years of experience covering home building and construction.A Massachusetts resident, his work has appeared in some of the nation's leading media brands in print and online.In addition to his exclusive articles for NewHomeSource, Charlie has written or edited for publications that include Architectural Record, Custom Builder, Fine Homebuilding, Green Builder, Harvard Management Update, Popular Science and This Old House.