A clear 6‑step path from discovery to move‑in.
Your project follows a proven process so everyone knows what is coming, when it is coming, and what decisions are truly critical. No surprises, no scrambling—just steady, informed progress toward your finished home.
Weeks 1–2 | Is this a good fit?
Initial consultation call
20‑minute call to understand your goals, budget range, lot status (if you have one), and ideal timeline. We ask honest questions and give you honest feedback on feasibility.
Outcome: You know if we are a fit. No obligation.
Lot review (if applicable)
If you have a lot, we review zoning, utilities, soil conditions, and municipal requirements. If not, we discuss acquisition strategy and priority locations in your service area.
Outcome: Feasibility assessment & preliminary estimate.
Plan selection or design direction
For semi-custom: select a proven floor plan that matches your needs. For custom: discuss design vision, style preferences, and must-haves so we know what you are building toward.
Outcome: Plan locked in · Budget range confirmed.
Weeks 1–2
You'll spend: 1–2 hours total (initial call + follow-up discussion)
We'll deliver: Feasibility summary, preliminary budget, realistic timeline, and a clear decision: move forward or not.
Cost: Complimentary (waived if you hire us to build)
Weeks 3–6 | Get the details right
Detailed design development
Work through finishes, colors, fixtures, and layout details. For custom designs, architect or designer creates detailed plans. For semi-custom, we develop selections and upgrade options.
Outcome: Floor plans finalized · Finish selections locked in.
Detailed budget & allowances
Itemized proposal showing inclusions, allowances for finishes (kitchen, bath, flooring, exterior), and pricing for optional upgrades. Every line is clear so you can make informed trade-offs.
Outcome: Signed contract · Budget locked in.
Contract review & signatures
Clear, straightforward contract outlining scope, budget, timeline, and your rights. We recommend you have your attorney review if desired. Once signed, we move to construction.
Outcome: Project officially underway.
Weeks 3–6
You'll spend: 4–8 hours total (design meetings, selections, contract review)
We'll deliver: Finalized design, detailed budget, and signed construction agreement with realistic timeline.
Cost: Design & permitting fees included in contract pricing
Weeks 7–10 | Get ready to build
Finalize site & utilities
Survey the lot, identify utility lines, and plan site access for construction. Ensure soil testing and grading are complete so we can begin foundation work without delay.
Outcome: Site ready for excavation.
Permit applications & approvals
We submit all required permits to the municipality—building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical. We manage follow-ups and inspections so you do not have to.
Outcome: All permits approved · Ready to excavate.
Subcontractor & material coordination
Schedule trades, order materials, and lock in pricing with vendors. This happens before construction so there are no surprises or delays once we break ground.
Outcome: All trades & suppliers confirmed.
Weeks 7–10
You'll spend: Minimal time (we handle most communication)
We'll deliver: All permits approved, site ready, trades scheduled, materials ordered.
Your involvement: Light—we keep you updated weekly
Weeks 11–26+ | Watch it come together
Your project moves through distinct construction phases. Exact timeline depends on weather, lot conditions, and complexity—but we track everything and keep you informed weekly.
Sample 24-week build timeline
Total: ~24 weeks (5.5 months) from groundbreaking to keys. Weather, material delays, or scope changes may extend this. We give you a realistic update every 4 weeks.
You're always in the loop
- Email updates every Friday with progress photos and status
- Site visits encouraged anytime (we'll coordinate access)
- Questions? Call your project lead anytime during business hours
- Issues? Escalated immediately and resolved before they compound
Inspections & standards
- Daily walkthroughs by project lead
- Municipal inspections at each phase (foundation, framing, MEP, final)
- Third-party inspections for structural & systems if desired
- Punch list process before final payment to fix any defects
Week 26+ | Welcome home
Final inspections & punch list
Municipal inspector approves final work. You and our team do a detailed walk-through, documenting any touch-ups or final items. These are completed before closing.
Outcome: Certificate of occupancy obtained.
Home orientation & handover
Detailed walkthrough of all systems, appliances, warranties, and maintenance guidelines. We show you how everything works and answer any final questions.
Outcome: You have all documentation and understand your new home.
Keys in your hands
Close with your lender, sign final documents, receive keys. Your home is officially yours. We remain available for warranty questions and post-move support.
Outcome: Move in and settle into your new home.
We are here after closing
- 1-year warranty on materials & workmanship
- 2-year warranty on systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)
- 10-year structural warranty
- Responsive support for any questions or minor repairs
- Seasonal maintenance tips & guidance
Why clients trust us to deliver.
No surprise change orders
We include allowances for upgradable items (finishes, flooring, kitchen) so you know exactly what changes cost before deciding. No hidden fees or mystery overruns.
Your dedicated project lead
Same person manages your project from start to finish. No handoffs, no confusion. You always know who to call and what is happening.
Built-in buffer for weather
Schedules account for weather delays and permit timelines. When we tell you a timeline, it is based on real experience in south suburban Chicago, not wishful thinking.
Proven trades & materials
We work with the same subcontractors and suppliers year after year. They know our standards and produce quality work consistently.
Let's talk about your timeline.
Every project is unique, but this process ensures clarity, quality, and on-time delivery. Fill out the form and let's discuss your specific situation.
Personalized timeline
We'll walk you through this process, show you how your specific project fits, and create a realistic timeline unique to your situation.