Having a custom home built is the best way to make sure that you get exactly what you're looking for in your next home. Each custom feature you select adds more time to the build, but the quality and personalization you receive is well worth the wait. A superior custom builder will take the time and effort to make sure that the job is done right.

Typical Home Construction Timeline

The average custom home build can take up to a year from the time you select a builder until you accept the keys to your new home. Here's a general timeline and below we'll go into more detail:

• Pre-build - 4 months
• Groundbreaking and Foundation - 1 month
• Framing and Mechanical - 3 months
• Drywall, Cabinets, Trim and Paint - 2 months
• Hardwood, Tile, Carpet and Details - 2 months
• Total Construction = 9-12 months

1. The Pre-Build Process - 4 Months

Before your dream home gets built, there are a few preliminaries to go through. First, you'll need to find the right builder for your needs by visiting sales offices and models in areas of interest. Be sure and check with friends who have had homes built for builder references as well.

Don't be afraid to walk through neighbourhoods that interest you and talk to the residents. This is a good way to find out details about the community and the builders. Chat with current homeowners and ask if they took possession of their homes on time and whether the finished product was what they expected.

With assistance from your builder, you'll want to decide on the style and size of your house. The homebuilder will draw up or modify blueprints for the home you have chosen and, before construction begins, you'll decide on what kinds of features and amenities you want in your new home. Jot down any questions you have as they arise and ask them each time you meet with the sales manager.

Spend time checking out neighbourhoods and deciding which one suits your individual needs. And once you choose a community and custom builder, you'll want to take your time and look over the contracts and warranty carefully. You can expect it to take a couple of months from the time you start looking until the construction process begins.

2. Groundbreaking and Foundation- 1 Month

In the first few weeks, your builder will be focused on obtaining any and all permits needed to begin the construction process. Once received, the builder will conduct a property survey - this will indicate the boundaries of the property. Once the lot size has been verified through the survey, excavation can begin.

The home's footings, which support the foundation and the weight of your home, are then poured, followed by the foundation walls. Damp proofing is then applied in order to prevent moisture from seeping into the foundation walls and affecting the home's structural integrity.

After the electrical and gas lines are then installed around the foundation, your builder will then backfill the open excavation, locking in your foundation and utility lines. A rough grade will then take pace to level out the property.

3. Framing and Mechanical - 3 Months

Next, framing begins and the skeleton of your home begins to take shape. Once the frame is completely erected (this includes the roof), your builder will install the windows and the shingles.

As the home's interior is now protected from the elements, the mechanical systems can be installed. This includes the heating and electrical systems as well as all the rough-ins for the plumbing. The inside is now ready for insulation, pending a walk-through from the site supervisor who will review the placement and design of the installed systems.

On the outside, this is also the point where the exterior cladding will be installed, in order to protect the frame from the elements. Decks and porches will also be added at this point, once the cladding has been put into place.

The weather can play a major role at this stage, as the home is susceptible to rain, snow, and heat prior to framing. Once this stage is complete, the City of Calgary will perform an inspection to confirm everything is up to code.

4. Drywall, Cabinets, Trim, and Paint - 2 Months

Now that your home has passed inspection, further work on the interior can take place and your home really starts to take shape. The insulation will now be installed followed by drywall and taping - paint is then applied shortly after. Cabinets, built-in shelving (including closets), interior doors, spindle railings and trim are also installed at this stage - pending sign off on the trim finishes with another walk-through.

5. Hardwood, Tile, Carpet, and Details - 2 Months

Once the inside has been completely painted and the cabinets, doors, shelves, railings etc have been installed, your builder will move on to other finishes such as countertops, bathroom mirrors, and shower glass. This is also the point where all tile work is completed - whether it be for the showers, floors or for wall accents (backsplashes etc). Hardwood and carpeting are put into place at this stage as well.

Work related to your home's mechanical systems will also be completed, as the install of your plumbing, electrical and heating are all finalized. This includes the addition of light fixtures and the power vac heating and cooling system.

6. Tune Up and Exterior

Now that the home's interior is finished, another walk through will take place and the interior will be fixed or "tuned up" here and there, should there be any minor deficiencies.

The home's exterior, including the sidewalk, driveway, paint and landscaping may or may not be completed at this point as they are seasonally dependent. In the event they are not complete, your builder will let you know approximately when you can expect to have these items finished.

Your Finished Home - 9-12 Months Total

A custom home that reflects your unique personality is well worth the wait. A good builder will give you updates and answer any questions you may have as the process unfolds. Remember to write down any questions as they arise because it's hard to remember everything at once when talking to your sales representative.

A quality home will come with a contract and warranty, and your preferences will be taken into account every step of the way. Building the custom home you desire can be a stress-free and enjoyable process if you follow these steps.