24 Jan Are Volume Home Builders & Custom Home Builders The Same?

Are you considering building the new home of your dreams? If so, questions are probably starting to mount as you do your research and gather information. One of those questions may be regarding “volume builder” and “custom builders.” If you’re confused about these terms, you’re not alone! So let’s take a closer look at what they mean.

Volume Builders: If you have seen a new housing development being built where there is a sales center, model homes with different floor plans, and a community name, this is a good indication it’s a volume builder. Here, the builder constructs a community of homes with different elevations and more limited design options that potential buyers can choose from. In addition, homes and land are offered as a package deal, making these an excellent option for first-time, move-up, and luxury buyers.

Custom Builders: On the contrary, a custom builder helps create unique and one-of-a-kind homes on a single lot. Working in conjunction with the buyer, a custom builder would assist their client in choosing from a broad range of construction possibilities, including upgraded finishes, luxury design options, expanded floor plan ideas, and more. 

The greatest part about working with a custom home builder is that there are no predefined or standard options to choose from. The sky is truly the limit! For example, you might already own the land where you’re building or decide to source a piece of land with sweeping views or a location you’ve always wanted. A custom home builder will help build out that land with a floorplan of your choosing or one that you draw-up together.

Another benefit is that you can have the input of both your builder and an architect to help put together a plan. It’s a very collaborative process that puts a lot of the decision-making in the hands of the buyer or owner, but with the expertise and guidance of professionals. Yes, you can expect to pay more for a custom build, but you will be getting exactly what you want at the end of your project versus a version of what you want with a volume builder. Pricing depends on a variety of things like your home’s size, building materials, labor, land cost, and more.

Perhaps the most crucial step in the custom building process is establishing a realistic budget early and sticking to it. The choices truly are unlimited, which can be exciting but also too tempting for some people. But rely on your custom home builder to help keep the project on track from both a financial and timing perspective.

No matter which route you choose, building a new home is a big decision and one that you should be proud of! Sit down and decide what your bandwidth is for making decisions, how specific of a home you have in mind, what your budget is, and your timeline. And then, visit both a volume builder and a custom builder to decide which is the right fit for you.

If you are considering building a custom home in the Marion, Cedar Rapids, or Iowa City area, please consider Dahl Custom Homes for your needs. We are experts at custom home construction and would love to discuss your project in more detail. 

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