How long does it take to build a home?
How long does it take to build a custom home?
Building a new custom home typically takes between 9 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the design, the size of the house, and factors like location, weather conditions, and availability of materials and labor. We at JTC, a Lawrence KS custom home builder, will break down the process!
The process begins with planning and design, which can take several months as homeowners work with architects and designers to finalize blueprints and secure permits. Custom homes often involve detailed customization, meaning that design and planning phases may be longer than for a typical, pre-designed home.
JTC will help get your plans finalized and apply for the necessary permits.
Once the plans are approved and permits obtained, the construction process starts with site preparation and foundation work, which can take 4 to 6 weeks. This includes clearing the lot, excavating, and pouring the foundation, with timelines dependent on the weather and soil conditions.
After the foundation is set, framing begins, often taking 1 to 2 months. During this phase, the skeleton of the house is built, including walls, floors, and the roof structure.
Following framing, work on plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems typically starts, often taking another 1 to 2 months to complete. Once these systems are in place, the home is “dried in,” meaning it’s sealed from the elements, allowing interior work to continue. This stage includes insulation, drywall, and flooring installation, and can take 2 to 3 months.
The final phase involves finishing touches such as cabinetry, paint, and landscaping, which can take an additional 1 to 2 months. Delays are possible in custom builds, especially if special materials are needed, or if unexpected challenges arise. Custom homes, due to their unique features and individualized timelines, typically require more time than standard homes. In ideal conditions, a custom home may be completed in 9 to 12 months.
How much does it cost to build a custom home?
The cost to build a new custom home in the rural Douglas County typically ranges from $250 to $300 per square foot, making it more affordable than in urban or high-demand areas. On average a 2,000-square-foot home total cost would likely fall between $550,000 and $600,000. This large gap is hugely dependent on various factors like location, materials, and the complexity of the design.
There are many considerations that can affect the price. For example, site preparation costs—such as clearing the land, grading, or dealing with uneven or rocky terrain—can add to the total expense.
Additionally, homes in rural areas often require more extensive infrastructure development, like installing wells, septic systems, or even connecting distant utility lines, which can increase costs.
The materials and style of the home also play a big role in the final price.
A basic, single-story ranch-style home with standard finishes will be much more affordable than a custom-designed, multi-story home with high-end materials or specialized features like energy-efficient systems or smart home technology.
Labor costs in rural areas are generally lower than in cities, but skilled labor shortages in some regions may still impact the timeline and budget.
Other expenses to consider include permits, inspections, and local fees, which vary from county to county. In general, building a new home in the Northeast Kansas region is less expensive than in other regions, but it’s still important to account for these variables to get an accurate estimate.
At JTC we build homes in Douglas county, Johnson county, Franklin county, Jefferson county, Leavenworth county, and Jackson county. JTC primarily builds homes around Lawrence, Eudora, Perry, Baldwin City, De Soto and Gardner. We are often found building homes in the county where our clients want to be in the country.
