FAQs - Frequently asked questions
Helpful Questions & Answers
We know that building a new home is a very big decision with lots of little details involved. Here, we’ve tried to answer as many of our most frequently asked questions, as comprehensively as possible. If your question is not listed below, please reach out. We’d love to talk to you about your project specifics and calm any concerns you may have.
What is the price per square foot that you can build?
All homes are different. The home you have designed will dictate the overall cost of the home. We build any and all homes. We do not like to reference price per square foot as a gauge for budget because there are SO many factors to be considered in each home that adjust the overall square foot price. Examples are one story vs. two story, 2-3 car garage, does your home need a septic or well, type of roof, etc.
How early can you start my build? How long does it take to build?
Our process starts as soon as you are ready. We start construction once all items are completed (plans, lot, construction loan, specs selected). Typical new home custom builds take 9-12 months depending on size and complexity of your job. However, sometimes there are unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or material/labor delays.
Do I need a designer?
We highly recommend working with a designer and we include a specific line item in our contracts to budget for one. There are a lot of benefits to working with a professional designer to make sure you are not overwhelmed. They are there to help assist you with any and all small or large decisions that will need to be made. We like to work with designers to help create a stress-free process throughout the build. They help guide selections and keep clear concise communication to make sure your vision is seen throughout your home.
What is an allowance and what happens when I go over/under it?
An allowance is a base line for finish out items that are selected by you. Plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, appliances, etc. We like to have as few allowances as possible. We will use the PSA to create/select your specifications so you are getting exactly what you want and know what to expect during the building process.
What is your ideal process for a new custom home?
Our goal is getting all the stakeholders involved before starting the construction process, i.e. builder, designer, engineer, vendors, and sub-contractors – this allows us to achieve the goal of building the exact home that you want that you are comfortable with. This will provide a smoother overall building experience. Read more about our process here.
What is expected of me as your client?
Our goal is to build you your house that you want. All we need from you is open, honest, and clear communication. Our goal is to create your home based off your vision and build the home from the specifications that you have selected. We are here to educate you on selections so that you can make the decision that best fits your vision.
How much time should I expect to spend making decisions on the home during the project?
You are welcome to do as many or as few walk-throughs as you would like. The PSA gives us the time to create your vision on your plans, and this will allow us to virtually walk through your home so that you do not need to be on site unless you really want to be. We have an online project management application that allows us to upload pictures, schedules, selections, etc., so that you are always involved in the process. This also allows you to stay involved in your normal daily life without having to make extra time for building your home.
What do you think is the best use of our money on this home? What drives the cost when designing/building a home? Where do you typically see wasted money in material or design selections?
We like to build our clients home as if they were our homes too. As a builder, our goal is to build a home that is safe, comfortable, and healthy. We engineer each home, foundation, and framing. We use exterior cladding materials that stand the test time. Energy efficient windows that are well regarded, especially for the Texas climate. Upgrade HVAC systems, roofing material, insulation, low voltage, etc. These are the items that are hard to replace they are not typically thought about but create a safe and healthy home for you and your family to enjoy a long lasting, comfortable home. During our PSA process, we can work with the engineer, architect, and designer to make sure we maximize the value of your home.
What is the biggest mistake you see clients make?
Not using the PSA to plan and value engineering their home to create the vision they want. Getting in a rush results in not thinking through the overall design and can result in multiple change orders.
What sets you apart from a production homebuilder? What separates you from other builders?
Custom homes and production homes are different. They are both homes but that is the only similarity. Custom means CUSTOM, the possibilities are endless! We work with you to get you the home you want, to make you happy so that you do not have to settle. We are here to help you narrow down the choices so you are getting the home you want. Our job is to educate and consult so that you can make the best decision for your home. We want you to control your design of your home, which is something that cannot happen when building a production home.
Is a custom home right for me?
A custom home is right for everyone. We customize your home and will customize your experience based on your personality and what you want. You do not have to settle. We will give you what you want.
This was our 5th major building project (2 new builds and 3 remodels) with the Strobel family, and they have never disappointed. Bryan and his staff are continuing Pete's great legacy. Extremely honest, courteous and attentive. Another great experience.
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Ready to learn more about the custom home building process with Strobel Custom Homes? Contact us today. Our team is ready to help make your dream home vision into a reality.
