You’ve thought about it for a while and you’re ready to build a new home. The only problem is, you aren’t sure what kind of home or even where you want to build. After doing some research, you’ve probably already determined that you have a few options. You could build in a neighborhood or you could build on more secluded land. You could hire a custom home builder or you could work with a production home builder, but what’s the difference?
What is a production home builder?
A production builder specializes in building a set number of house plans. These builders could offer anywhere from one or two plans to upwards of 8 or 10, but your choice of homes and features will be limited. Production home builders are also the builders who more often than not are building neighborhoods. The homes go up quickly and are designed with trends in mind, not necessarily personal preferences.
What is a custom home builder?
Custom home builders, on the other hand, work with their clients to create unique floor plans. Sometimes they have floor plans to pick and choose from, but even those plans can be modified to suit individual needs and styles. Aside from that, the materials used like cabinets, windows, and flooring are completely up to the buyer.
Floor Plans
Floor plans are where the biggest difference between the two types of home builders come into play. Production home builders are more focused on building quickly and on larger scales. Because they build this way, they typically have set floor plans they work with which were designed with no particular client in mind.
Custom home builders might have floor plans for clients to look at, but they rely on the client to actually determine the final floor plan. Often, custom home builder clients bring several sets of floor plans to their builder and have a unique floor plan commissioned just for them. Home buyers typically prefer this option because they can create a design just for them and their needs.
Design Options
When it comes to production home builders, you’re usually limited in design options just like with floor plans. Interior elements likes cabinets might have two or three options where exterior options like siding could have three or four choices. It comes down to what sort of options you’re looking for in your future home.
Custom home builders don’t have set design options. Always dreamed of Italian marble in your master suite bathroom? They’ll install it for you. Want dark mahogany cabinets with light butcherblock counters in your kitchen? They’ll install those too. While a production home builder has limitations on what the design elements of your home are, a custom home builder will rely on you to determine those design elements. If you’re looking to add your own personal style into your future home, then a custom home is the option you want.
Timelines
Looking to build quickly and move in right away, then a production home is right up your alley. These builders know how to get the job done quickly because they only work with certain floor plans. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that much of the home will be standardized to the builder’s specifications and not your own.
Custom homes can take months to build, but not without good reason. Much of the custom home building process relies on the client. Because you’re able to pick out all of those design details, it can take longer to get everything just right. Plus, the custom home builder is most likely working off completely new plans, which can be a challenge.
Budgets
Budgeting for a production built home is much simpler than a custom built home. With limited variations, production home builder are able to outline exactly how much your home will cost depending on the design elements and details you select. It’ll be pretty cut and dry.
The custom home budget will depend on your style and the design elements and details you choose to include. An experienced custom home builder should be looking out for you, though, and will help you budget accordingly. Through the process of designing and building your home, they’ll help you make decision and work with you to keep the home within your predetermined budget.
Lot Opportunities
Production home builders most likely have a lot included in their plans. Because these builders typically work within neighborhoods, your lot choices are going to be limited. Part of the reason the costs are lower with production builders is because they already have lots available and ready to go.
Custom home builders, however, will build wherever you want to build. If you already have land you want to build on, they’ll be able to find the right inspections, specs, and codes that need to be met. If you don’t have land already, then the builder will be able to assist you in finding the right lot for your future home.
Want to learn more about custom home builders? Check out our free e-book, “Tips For Building Your Custom Home.” In the e-book you’ll find helpful information on hiring a home builder, what to look for in a home building site, and so much more!
