Construction FAQ

How much does it cost to build a custom home in Austin?

Custom home construction in Austin typically ranges from $200-400 per square foot, with luxury homes reaching $500+ per square foot. A 2,500 sq ft custom home generally costs $500,000-$1,000,000 including land, permits, and finishes.

Factors affecting cost include lot conditions, architectural complexity, material selections, and finish quality. We provide detailed estimates based on your specific plans and requirements.

How long does it take to build a custom home in Austin?

Custom home construction in Austin typically takes 8-14 months from groundbreaking to move-in. This includes:

• 2-4 months for permits and planning
• 6-10 months for construction
• 2-4 weeks for final inspections and cleanup

Timeline varies based on home size, complexity, weather conditions, and permit approval times. Luxury homes with custom features may take 12-18 months.

What's included in a custom home contract?

A comprehensive custom home contract should include:

• Detailed scope of work and specifications
• Materials list with allowances and upgrade costs
• Project timeline with key milestones
• Payment schedule tied to completion phases
• Change order procedures and pricing
• Warranty terms and conditions
• Permit and inspection responsibilities

We provide transparent contracts with detailed specifications to avoid surprises and ensure clear expectations throughout the project.

Do you build on my lot or help find land?

We build on your existing lot and can also help you find suitable land in Austin and Central Texas. Our services include:

• Lot evaluation for buildability and utilities
• Soil testing and foundation recommendations
• Setback and restriction analysis
• Connection with trusted real estate agents
• Due diligence support for land purchases

We review lot conditions before providing estimates to ensure accurate pricing and identify any potential challenges early in the process.

What makes Austin custom home construction unique?

Austin's unique geology, climate, and building codes create specific requirements:

• Clay soil: Requires specialized foundation design and drainage
• Climate: Energy efficiency and HVAC considerations
• Building codes: Austin Energy and green building requirements
• Tree preservation: Protected trees and environmental regulations
• HOA restrictions: Architectural guidelines in many neighborhoods

Our local expertise ensures your home is designed and built specifically for Central Texas conditions and regulations.

How much does home remodeling cost in Austin?

Austin home remodeling costs vary significantly by project scope:

• Kitchen remodel: $25,000 - $75,000+
• Bathroom renovation: $15,000 - $50,000+
• Room addition: $40,000 - $120,000+
• Whole home remodel: $100,000 - $500,000+
• Historic restoration: $150 - $300 per sq ft

Costs depend on materials, labor complexity, permit requirements, and unexpected issues discovered during renovation. We provide detailed estimates after initial consultation.

Should I renovate or build new?

The decision depends on several factors:

Consider renovation when:

• Foundation and structure are sound
• You love your neighborhood and lot
• Renovation costs are less than 70% of new construction
• Timeline constraints favor renovation
• Historic or sentimental value exists

Consider building new when:

• Major structural issues exist
• Layout changes are extensive
• Systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) need complete replacement
• Energy efficiency is a top priority
• Long-term costs favor new construction

We provide honest assessments to help you make the best decision for your situation and budget.

How do I live in my home during renovation?

Living through renovation requires planning and flexibility:

• Kitchen renovations: Set up temporary kitchen in another room
• Bathroom remodels: Ensure access to another bathroom
• Whole home projects: Consider temporary relocation
• Dust protection: Seal off work areas with plastic barriers
• Safety measures: Maintain clear pathways and secure dangerous areas

We work with you to minimize disruption, maintain access to essential areas, and provide realistic expectations about living conditions during construction.

What's the best time of year to remodel in Austin?

Austin's climate allows year-round construction, but timing considerations include:

• Fall/Winter (Oct-Feb): Ideal weather, contractor availability, less expensive materials
• Spring (Mar-May): Good weather but higher demand and prices
• Summer (Jun-Sep): Hot weather but indoor work unaffected
• Holiday seasons: Potential delays but less disruption to daily life

Interior renovations can be completed year-round. Exterior work may be delayed by rain but rarely by temperature in Austin's mild climate.

How do I choose finishes and materials?

Material selection impacts both aesthetics and budget:

• Start with budget: Establish realistic allowances for each category
• Consider lifestyle: Durability needs based on family and usage
• Austin climate: Materials suited to humidity and temperature changes
• Resale value: Balance personal taste with broad market appeal
• Maintenance requirements: Factor in long-term care and replacement costs

We provide material samples, showroom tours, and guidance to help you make informed decisions that align with your budget and vision.

Do I need permits for home renovation in Austin?

Yes, most home renovations in Austin require permits for:

• Structural changes: Wall removal, additions, foundation work
• Electrical work: New circuits, panel upgrades, outlet additions
• Plumbing: Moving fixtures, new lines, water heater replacement
• HVAC: System replacement, ductwork modifications
• Roofing: Replacement, structural changes

Work that typically doesn't require permits:

• Painting, flooring, cabinet installation
• Fixture replacement (same location)
• Minor repairs and maintenance

We handle all permit applications and inspections for our clients. Permit costs range from $200-2,000+ depending on project scope.

How long does it take to get permits in Austin?

Austin permit timelines vary by project complexity:

• Simple renovations: 2-4 weeks
• Major remodels: 4-8 weeks
• Custom homes: 8-16 weeks
• Commercial projects: 12-24 weeks

Factors affecting timeline:

• Completeness and accuracy of application
• Plan complexity and code compliance
• City workload and staffing
• Required reviews (environmental, historic, etc.)
• Plan revisions and resubmittals

We submit complete, code-compliant plans to minimize delays and keep your project on schedule.

What are Austin's energy efficiency requirements?

Austin Energy requires compliance with strict energy codes:

• Insulation: R-13 walls, R-38 ceilings minimum
• Windows: Low-E glass, maximum U-factor requirements
• HVAC: High-efficiency systems, proper sizing and installation
• Ductwork: Sealed and insulated, tested for leakage
• Lighting: Energy-efficient fixtures and controls
• Water heating: Efficient systems and distribution

Green Building Program benefits:

• Utility rebates and incentives
• Reduced permit fees
• Lower long-term energy costs
• Increased home value

We design all projects to meet or exceed Austin's energy requirements and can help you qualify for available incentives.

What happens during inspections?

Austin requires inspections at key construction phases:

• Foundation: Forms, rebar, concrete placement
• Rough-in: Framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC before drywall
• Insulation: Proper installation and coverage
• Final: All systems complete and functional
• Certificate of Occupancy: Final approval for occupancy

Inspection process:

• Schedule inspections 24-48 hours in advance
• Inspector reviews work for code compliance
• Pass: Work approved, proceed to next phase
• Fail: Correct issues and re-inspect

We coordinate all inspections and ensure work meets code requirements to avoid delays and re-inspections.

How do you price construction projects?

We use detailed cost-plus pricing with transparent breakdown:

• Materials: Actual costs with detailed receipts
• Labor: Competitive rates for skilled tradespeople
• Permits: Actual permit and inspection fees
• Project management: Supervision and coordination
• Overhead: Insurance, tools, equipment
• Profit margin: Fair markup for quality service

This approach ensures you pay fair prices while maintaining quality workmanship and materials. We provide detailed estimates and regular cost updates.

What factors affect construction costs in Austin?

Several Austin-specific factors impact pricing:

• Soil conditions: Clay soil requires specialized foundations
• Tree preservation: Protected trees limit access and design
• Code requirements: Austin Energy and green building standards
• Labor market: High demand for skilled contractors
• Material costs: Supply chain and local availability
• Permit fees: City inspection and review costs
• Site conditions: Access, utilities, topography

We evaluate these factors during initial consultation to provide accurate estimates and avoid surprises during construction.

How do payment schedules work?

We structure payments to align with project milestones:

• Contract signing: 10% down payment
• Permit approval: 15% of total contract
• Foundation complete: 20% of total contract
• Framing complete: 20% of total contract
• Rough-in complete: 15% of total contract
• Substantial completion: 15% of total contract
• Final walkthrough: 5% retention released

This schedule protects both parties and ensures funds are available for each construction phase. We never ask for large upfront payments or payment ahead of completed work.

How do you handle cost overruns?

We minimize overruns through careful planning and transparent communication:

• Detailed contracts: Clear scope and specifications
• Contingency planning: Budget for unforeseen issues
• Change order process: Written approval before additional work
• Regular updates: Weekly cost reports and projections
• Problem solving: Alternative solutions for budget challenges

Common reasons for overruns:

• Hidden structural or utility issues
• Client-requested changes or upgrades
• Unforeseen site conditions
• Material price increases or availability

We discuss potential issues upfront and maintain open communication to keep projects on budget.

What's your typical project process?

Our systematic approach ensures successful project completion:

• Initial consultation: Site visit, needs assessment, preliminary pricing
• Design development: Plans, specifications, material selections
• Contract and permits: Detailed agreement, permit applications
• Pre-construction: Final preparations, material ordering, scheduling
• Construction: Systematic build process with regular updates
• Final walkthrough: Quality inspection, punch list completion
• Project closeout: Final payments, warranty documentation

We maintain regular communication throughout each phase and provide detailed progress reports to keep you informed.

How do you handle project delays?

While we work to minimize delays, some factors are beyond our control:

Common delay causes:

• Weather conditions (rare in Austin)
• Permit approval delays
• Material delivery issues
• Unforeseen structural problems
• Client change orders
• Utility connection delays

Our delay management:

• Early material ordering and delivery scheduling
• Backup suppliers and subcontractors
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate issues
• Clear communication about delays and new timelines
• Focus on areas that can progress while resolving issues

We build buffer time into schedules and communicate proactively about any timeline changes.

How often will you communicate during the project?

We maintain regular communication throughout your project:

• Daily: Project manager on-site supervision
• Weekly: Progress reports with photos and timeline updates
• Bi-weekly: In-person meetings for major milestone reviews
• As needed: Immediate contact for decisions or issues
• Material selections: Scheduled appointments at showrooms

Communication methods:

• Phone calls and text messages
• Email with photo updates
• Project management software access
• In-person site meetings

You'll always know what's happening with your project and what's coming next in the construction process.

What warranty do you provide?

We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties:

• Workmanship: 2-year warranty on all labor and installation
• Structural: 10-year warranty on foundation and framing
• Materials: Manufacturer warranties passed through to client
• Systems: 1-year warranty on HVAC, electrical, plumbing
• Appliances: Manufacturer warranties with our support

Warranty service includes:

• Prompt response to warranty claims
• Professional repair or replacement
• Annual maintenance recommendations
• Ongoing relationship for future projects

Our goal is your complete satisfaction both during construction and for years to come. We maintain long-term relationships with our clients.