Custom Homes Overview

What to Expect Along the Way to Your New Home

Consultation–We Work to Meet Your Goals with Your Budget

In the Design Consultation stage you will sit down with Scott, the President and Designer who will help assist you in making sure your goals and your budget are compatible with the current market prices. CWB always recommends that the client obtain a mortgage prequalification prior to plans development.  You will work closely with Scott as you discuss ways to bring your new home concept to life. During the initial meetings we will get to know you and talk about style and preferences.

We will discuss the number of rooms, where they will be placed, and space planning to make your home plans consistent with your goals. We will also visit your project site to be sure the home we are developing is compatible with the natural elements of the property.

Financing

Once you have obtained your mortgage prequalification from your PA community bank or mortgage company, CWB will require a Design Retainer to get started on the construction plans. After a few more design meetings, a preliminary plan will be produced along with its associated pricing structure.  We will be happy to provide your Bank with the necessary paperwork for obtaining your construction loan. For clients who do not require financing, an escrow account will be set up.

Documentation and Agreement

Next is the stage where your ideas are cemented into the detailed architectural design and the elevations and renderings are produced through computer software. The specifications of your house are taken care of next as well as construction documents and contract documents that must be completed. During this time we will perform another site investigation. You will be taking the completed documents to your Mortgage Provider as they are necessary for the Mortgage Provider to process your application. Once your construction loan provider has completed the financing part, CWB begins the permit phase.

Construction

Expected Duration: Four to Nine Months Depending on The Size, Style, and Degree of Custom Woodworking (and WEATHER).

Excitement builds as the permits for your home are granted, the lot for your home is cleared using our professional site prep crew, and the foundation of your new home is set. From the ground up, the stage is set for your new home to be built.  Its always exciting to see the framing of the home.  Then the roofing is put on and the windows, exterior doors and siding complete the shell of your new home. Next the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and insulation work is started. Your home begins to take on its intended character. Drywall, painting, flooring, and cabinetry are put into place and the trim and millwork continue creating your home’s personality. The electrical, plumbing and HVAC can now be completed and final inspections take place. The very last step is Moving In!

A Note About Construction Inspections:
With a complete set of plans detailing the home as agreed and complete specifications detailing the project, inspections will be performed prior to each draw. Your Mortgage Provider will perform inspections as well as the Township and/or Property Association.

The order of these processes can change according to the specifics of each project. Also, the timeframes are subject to weather, custom woodworking, and materials availability.

Construction is Underway, Now What?

Once you’ve chosen Company Woods Builders and the construction is about to begin we want to make sure there is clear communication of schedules and expectations. What is done next about this working relationship will make the difference between a pleasant experience and an unpleasant one. Here are a few things to remember…..

  • Post CWB phone numbers by your phone in case a question arises and be sure the numbers are stored in your cell phone in case you are in a supply store and have a question about your selection.
  • Consider the logistics involved in ordering, delivering, and shipping materials. CWB is as anxious as you are to finish your home on time. Allow a margin for human error or for simple forgetfulness.
  • Workmanship: Expect the highest of industry standards of quality workmanship. However, don’t expect to get in excess of your specifications unless we are going to document a change order for an upgrade or other change. Most often, there is an additional charge for this.
  • Your New Home Location is a Job Site but not your storage space. Owners’ possessions are not permitted on the Job Site until completion or as agreed to by our President/Builder, Scott.
  • Be Cool: Keep calm and flexible. Time-clocking workers only builds anxiety and resentment and won’t save you in time or money.
  •  Try to stay out of the construction area. This is important for safety and for maintaining construction schedule. Keep pets and children out of the workers’ way. CWB is not responsible for maintaining visitors’ safety during construction.
  • Your Assistance: You can cut down on last minute decisions and delays by selecting your materials in advance.
  • Please be sure to refrain from the endless “whys” that slow down production. Most workers are simply following the Builder’s orders and the project specifications. Discuss construction changes only with the Builder’s authorized representative.
  • Win cooperation from workers and the Builder with good, basic human relations. Nothing makes them work better than a word of appreciation and/or an unexpected pot of coffee!
  • Give CWB the benefit of the doubt. You chose us for a variety of reasons and one of those was honesty. Smaller sized companies know that they will essentially enjoy longevity in the business through satisfied customers.