Should you hire a designer first or a builder first when constructing your dream home? The real answer might surprise you—it's both, working together from day one. This nuanced discussion explores why establishing an integrated team early saves time, prevents costly mistakes, and ensures your vision aligns with your budget.

We dive deep into the two primary approaches to home construction: the traditional design-bid-build method for custom homes versus planned unit developments with their design-build systems. Each path offers distinct advantages and limitations. Planned developments provide speed, cost efficiency, and simplified decision-making, making them perfect for those who get overwhelmed by endless choices. Custom homes, though more variable in cost, deliver spaces tailored specifically to your lifestyle—designed around how you cook, relax, entertain, and live.

The conversation reveals why communication is the cornerstone of successful building projects. We share a cautionary tale of a client who spent $30,000 on house plans because the builder wasn't involved early enough, forcing multiple redesigns when bids exceeded budget. Working in parallel rather than in series makes all the difference, with all team members collaborating throughout the process rather than working in isolation.

Modern technology has revolutionized home design, with 3D modeling allowing clients to virtually walk through their future homes before construction begins. This visualization process eliminates approximately 70-80% of potential field changes, helping you see and approve layouts and finishes while avoiding costly change orders. Understanding the different roles in the building process—from designers to architects to draftsmen—ensures you assemble the right team for your specific project needs.

We dive into the realities of construction costs and why Google's estimates rarely match what you'll actually pay for building or remodeling projects.

• Builder-grade new construction currently starts around $180-185 per square foot, with custom builds at $200+ per square foot
• Labor shortages in the trades have dramatically increased costs for plumbers, electricians, and HVAC work
• Material selections can quickly blow budgets when homeowners choose premium finishes without understanding cost implications
• For new homes, buying existing properties offers the most space for your money, while custom building is most expensive but provides exactly what you want
• Remodels fall in the middle cost-wise but require a 15-20% contingency fund for unexpected issues behind walls
• Barn dominiums can offer some savings on shell construction but aren't necessarily the budget solution many think
• Financing for barn dominiums has improved but appraisal challenges remain due to limited comparable sales
• Budget transparency is crucial—account for "soft costs" like permits, design fees, and site necessities
• Setting and communicating a firm budget ceiling helps maintain good relationships with your design and construction team

Get pre-approved and establish a realistic budget before starting your construction project.

We introduce our new podcast dedicated to guiding you through the home building and buying process, from basic questions to complex decisions. As professionals in mortgage lending and home design, we're combining our expertise to help you navigate construction projects confidently.

• Determining your project goals: more space, functionality, fresh start, or location preferences
• Three main construction paths: additions (expanding footprint), remodels (working within existing space), and complete new builds
• Importance of establishing a realistic budget before approaching builders or designers
• Working backwards from your desired monthly payment to determine total project budget
• Why you should assemble your team (builder, designer, lender) simultaneously rather than sequentially
• Critical importance of checking zoning restrictions and deed requirements before purchasing land
• Understanding that asking the right questions is more important than having all the answers

Subscribe to Constructive Conversations on YouTube and all podcast channels to continue learning about new construction and remodeling.