Custom homes are complex. Costs are rising, permitting takes time, and early decisions matter more than most homeowners realize. This guide helps you understand what’s possible — before you commit.
Before You Design a Custom Home,
Get Clarity
If you’d prefer to talk through your situation, you’re welcome to schedule a short strategy call.
If you’re thinking about building a custom home…
Most homeowners begin with inspiration — images, ideas, and a sense of what they want their life to feel like. What’s often missing early on is clarity around feasibility, cost, and constraints.
This guide is designed to help you:
• Understand what typically drives cost (and surprises)
• Identify key site and permitting considerations
• Ask better questions before design begins
• Avoid common early-stage mistakes
This is not about selling you a design.
It’s about helping you make informed decisions.
What You’ll Learn:
• When to involve an architect — and why timing matters
• How site conditions and zoning shape design possibilities
• Why starting design without feasibility can be costly
• How early clarity protects both your vision and your budget
Guidance before guesswork
I work with homeowners who want something personal and well-considered — and who value clarity before commitment. My role is to help guide decisions early, navigate complexity, and ensure design intent is supported all the way through construction.
If you’d prefer to talk through your situation, you’re welcome to schedule a short strategy call.
FAQ
Q: Do you take renovation projects?
A: Yes, but only substantial transformations. Our process is best suited for whole-home remodels where the construction budget exceeds $450/sf.
Q: I have a builder already. Can I still work with you?
A: Absolutely. As shown in our process map, we believe in Strategic Pricing. We integrate builders early in the design phase to vet costs and eliminate surprises.
Q: I don't own land yet. Is it too early to apply?
A: No. In fact, we advise clients to speak with us before signing a purchase agreement. We can help you identify expensive restrictions—like critical areas or steep slopes—that aren't on the listing, potentially saving you from buying an unbuildable lot.
“Andrew did a wonderful job with a feasibility study on a prospective investment property.
We had a tight deadline which he met and gave very thorough and helpful insight into our options.
We felt much more confident making our final decision and highly recommend him.”