Our Building Process

May 1, 2021
The custom home building process is meant to give you, the customer, control over every design aspect. We’ve heard the grumblings: that many custom builders don’t truly give you a custom home, and that the process is laborious and difficult.

The custom home building process is meant to give you, the customer, control over every design aspect. We’ve heard the grumblings: that many custom builders don’t truly give you a custom home, and that the process is laborious and difficult.

Our goal since day one has been to change that mindset. We give you a one-year warranty because we know every “punch list” item may not get noticed within the first 30 to 60 days after you move in. From the planning phase to the final walk through, our building process is designed to meet all your wants and needs.

Pre-Planning Process

The first step is the pre-planning process. This is where we’ll discuss your budget, select a plan, visit the build site, go through the pre-qualification approval process, then look at construction pricing and specifications. We typically meet in the Winter Homes office for this step. 

This is a time, especially if you’re new to the Athens community, when we can refer you to mortgage lenders who we work closely with. 

During this initial meeting, we will begin putting together a timeline for when the build will start and be completed. Obviously, the timeline will vary due to weather, job site conditions, and change orders. But we strive to complete the build in a timely manner.

For the pre-planning process, we will typically meet at the Winter Homes office on Southern Charm Blvd.


Construction Agreement

Now, we’re moving into the construction agreement. This is when your initial construction deposit is due. We will have discussed the amount of the deposit in our initial meeting so there are no hidden costs when it is due. 

By now we have a good idea of the house you want and will determine the date we’ll start building. Usually during a pre-construction meeting we’ll have with you at our office or on the lot. We’ll need to obtain the building permit during this time as well so there is nothing hindering us from starting on time. 

Finally, you will select the home finishes and features you desire. We can offer as much or as little input as you’d like. Again, this is your home and we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable.

We will help you as much or as little as you like during the planning process.


Construction Begins

Now we’re getting into the heart of our building process. This is when construction begins; things start to happen! Excavation and dirt removal will begin. Then footings are put in place and the foundation is laid. Next, the house is framed followed by the addition of the roof. Windows and doors are hung and secured.

Once municipal inspections are completed we’ll finish the exterior before moving into drywall and vinyl flooring. Then, trim carpentry, paints, and stains. Hardware for doors and baths are installed followed by laying any carpet or hardwood or laminate flooring. The driveway is paved and any other exterior concrete is poured. Finally, the landscaping.  

The final step of the building process, owner orientation, when you move in to your new home, is by far our favorite.


Owner Orientation

This is our favorite step – owner orientation. You’ll receive your certification of occupancy and we present you with the keys to your new home. The final punch out is completed. And finally, you’re ready to move in. 

With most home builders, once you close on your new home you will not hear from them again unless you have a warranty request. We strive to break the stigma associated with the home-building industry and provide a higher degree of service to our customers both during the building process and after. That’s why we give you a 12-month warranty. Your House. Your Way.

If you’re interested in building with us or have any questions about Winter Homes or the Athens community, please feel free to reach out: 

PHONE: (256) 278-1551

WEBSITE: https://builtbywinterhomes.com/contact

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/builtbywinterhomes/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/builtbywinterhomes/