Building a custom home is an incredibly exciting journey that transforms your dream into a tangible reality. But what exactly should your role be once the construction process begins? What tasks should you be focusing on while the builders work diligently to create your dream house? This comprehensive blog post aims to unravel and shed light on the important activities you should be undertaking during the construction process to ensure a smooth transition into your new home.

Six Things You Can Do While Your Home Is Being Built

1) Planning the Landscape

Your home’s outdoor space plays a significant role in both its overall aesthetics and functionality. Therefore, it is crucial to pay careful attention to planning your landscape:

  • Hire a Professional Landscaper: Consider enlisting the expertise of a professional landscaper who can help you design and create an outdoor space that perfectly complements your home’s architecture and aligns with your unique lifestyle.
  • Design Outdoor Living Spaces: Take the opportunity to plan and incorporate desirable features such as patios, decks, or even outdoor kitchens. These spaces not only enhance the value of your home but also provide additional areas for relaxation and entertainment.
  • Select Plants and Trees: Carefully choose and select plants and trees that thrive in your region’s climate, align with your desired level of maintenance, and add to the overall curb appeal of your home. Be sure to also consider any potential hazards, such as blocking windows or growing into utility lines.
  • Install Irrigation Systems: Once you have selected your plants and trees, installing an irrigation system is a wise decision. It will ensure they receive the necessary water without having to manually water them yourself.

2) Preparing for Move-In

While it may seem like move-in day is still far away, it is essential to start preparing early. Here are some key tasks you can focus on to ensure a smooth transition into your new home:

  • Furniture Shopping: Use the time during construction to shop for and purchase furniture that aligns with your vision for each room. This will help avoid any last-minute scrambling when it’s time to move in.
  • Organize and Declutter: Take advantage of the time you have before moving in to declutter your belongings. This will not only make moving easier but also help you start fresh in your new home.
  • Plan your Utility Setup: While your builder will ensure the home is equipped with all the necessary utilities, it’s your responsibility to set up accounts with your chosen providers. Plan your utilities setup for services such as electricity, water, internet, and cable TV in advance to avoid any interruptions in service when you move in.
  • Hire a Moving Company: If you have a lot of belongings or if your new home is far from your current location, consider hiring a professional moving company. Start getting quotes and schedule your move well in advance to secure the best rate and availability.
  • Pack in an Organized Manner: Start packing your belongings room by room, labeling each box with its contents and the room it’s intended for in your new home. This will make the unpacking process much easier and more efficient. 
  • Create an Essentials Box: Pack a box with items you’ll need immediately upon moving into your new home, such as toiletries, a set of clothes, essential cookware, and important documents. This will save you from rummaging through multiple boxes trying to find what you need on your first day.
  • Inform Friends and Family: Finally, be sure to inform your friends and family of your move so they know where to find you. Plus, you might just get some extra help with the move!

By engaging in early landscape planning, you can ensure seamless integration with your home’s design and timely completion alongside the construction process.

3) Setting up Utilities

Utilities are an integral part of creating a comfortable living experience in your new home. Here’s how you can ensure their timely setup:

  • Understanding Utility Requirements: Begin by identifying and understanding the specific utilities your home will require, such as electricity, water, gas, sewage, internet, and cable.
  • Researching Utility Providers: Conduct thorough research to identify and select utility providers that offer reliable services at competitive rates, ensuring a seamless experience once you move into your new home.
  • Coordinating Installations: Carefully coordinate and schedule utility installations to align with your home’s construction timeline to avoid any unnecessary delays or inconveniences.
  • Ensuring Proper Connections: Before moving into your new home, ensure that all utility connections are properly installed and fully functional.

By systematically setting up utilities, you can prevent post-construction hassles and ensure that your new home is move-in ready as soon as the construction concludes.

4) Reviewing the Construction Timeline

Having a clear understanding of the construction timeline is key to managing your expectations and planning for a smooth transition into your new home:

  • Regular Consultations with the Builder: Maintain regular consultations with your builder to stay updated and informed about the progress of the construction project.
  • Tracking Progress and Milestones: Keep a close eye on key milestones to gauge the progress of the construction and ensure that the project is on track.
  • Addressing Delays or Changes: In case of any unexpected delays or changes, promptly discuss them with your builder and adjust your plans accordingly to avoid any potential complications.
  • Confirming Quality Checks: Make sure your builder conducts routine quality checks at various stages of the construction process. This can help identify and rectify any issues early on, ensuring the final result matches your expectations.
  • Planning for Handover: As the construction nears completion, start planning for the handover process. This includes final walkthroughs, paperwork, and an understanding of any warranties or services that the builder provides post-completion.
  • Preparing for Post-Construction Maintenance: Lastly, discuss post-construction maintenance with your builder. Having a clear understanding of what maintenance tasks might be needed and when can help you keep your new home in optimal condition for many years to come.
  • By staying informed and involved in your home’s construction progress, you can effectively prepare for a timely transition into your new home.

5) Communicating with the Builder

Maintaining clear and consistent communication with your builder is vital to ensure that your home is built to your utmost satisfaction:

  • Establishing Communication Channels: Determine and establish effective communication channels with your builder, whether it’s through weekly meetings, emails, phone calls, or a combination of these methods.
  • Regular Site Visits: Make it a point to regularly visit the construction site, as this will allow you to visualize and better understand the progress of your dream home and provide real-time feedback.
  • Promptly Addressing Concerns and Questions: If you have any concerns or questions during the construction process, it is crucial to raise them promptly to avoid any potential complications or misunderstandings later on.
  • Building a Positive Working Relationship: Foster and maintain a positive working relationship with your builder, as this can greatly contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient construction process.

Maintaining open lines of communication with your builder ensures that your vision is accurately brought to life and that any issues or concerns are promptly addressed.

6) Choosing the Right Custom Home Builder

Choosing the right custom home builder is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make during the home-building process. Here are some tips to guide you:

  • Understanding Your Needs: Start by identifying your needs and preferences. This could relate to the size, type, and style of the home you want, as well as your budget. This will help you narrow down potential builders who specialize in the kind of home you’re looking to build.
  • Researching Potential Builders: Once you’ve established your needs, begin your search for builders. You can start by researching online, asking for recommendations from friends or family, or consulting local real estate agents. Check out the portfolio of each builder to gauge their quality and style.
  • Checking Builder’s Reputation and Experience: Look into each builder’s reputation and experience. Check for online reviews, ask for client references, and find out how long they’ve been in the business. A builder with a solid track record of quality workmanship and customer satisfaction is a promising option.
  • Verifying Builder’s Licenses and Insurance: It is essential to verify that the builders you are considering are licensed and insured. This will protect you from any legal issues during the construction process.
  • Comparing Prices: Obtain quotes from your shortlisted builders and compare them. Keep in mind the cheapest quote might not always be the best. It’s crucial to understand what’s included in the price and ensure it aligns with the quality and scope of work you expect.
  • Communication Style: Lastly, consider the builder’s communication style. The builder should be open to your ideas, willing to answer your questions and keep you informed throughout the construction process.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a custom home builder who will effectively meet your needs and help bring your dream home to life.

Start Your Custom Home Build in North Carolina

Building a custom home involves more than just patiently waiting for the construction to be completed—it is an active process that requires your involvement and engagement. From landscape planning and utility setup to reviewing the construction timeline and maintaining effective communication with your builder, these activities not only ensure that your home aligns with your vision but also make the waiting time a rewarding and enriching experience.

Choosing the right custom home builder can transform this waiting time from feeling like a chore to a luxury experience. If you are considering building a custom home in the foothills and High Country of North Carolina, reach out to ExCo Custom Homes. Our dedicated team is committed to building homes that reflect your unique lifestyle and preferences while ensuring a seamless and enjoyable home-building journey.