Step 1

In this initial stage, we’ve already spoken on the phone or in person to discuss the type of home you’re looking for and your preferred lot. During our meeting, we’ll come prepared with a concept or plan that fits your vision, along with information on available lots that might work for you if you don’t already have one. If you’re unsure about specific features, we’ll help refine your ideas to create a design that balances your vision and budget.

At the end of the meeting, if you decide to move forward, we require a $5,000 non-refundable deposit. This deposit applies to the building costs if you proceed with us or compensates us for the time and drafting the plan if you choose not to. We’ll also discuss contract options to determine which type works best for your needs. 

If you choose to finance the project yourself, it can help reduce the total build price. Construction loans typically require a 20% down payment, which will be the purchaser's responsibility. However, if you already own the lot, its value can be applied toward the down payment. If you choose to have a real estate or legal professional represent you, their fees will be your responsibility, either paid directly or included in the home’s sales price.

Contract types:

Contract Price: We charge a set, agreed-upon price for the entire project based on the selections and bids, excluding change orders or adjustments due to the materials escalation clause. This provides you with a clear and predictable total cost upfront.

Cost Plus: We charge for the actual costs of materials and labor, plus an additional percentage or straight fee. If costs increase, the client pays more. If costs are lower, the client pays less. This is more flexible but less predictable for the client.

At this stage, you’ll need to have your lot selected. Once that’s done, we’ll send the initial plans to our draftsman, who typically returns a first draft within a couple of weeks. These 2D plans will include detailed views of the front, rear, and sides of the home, as well as the foundation/basement, all floor levels, and the roofline.

With the first draft in hand, we’ll review practical details such as space requirements, front elevation aesthetics, garage door heights, and other important dimensions. After discussing any adjustments, we’ll send the plans back to the draftsman for revisions. This process continues until we have a final set of plans that you’re completely satisfied with.

With a complete set of buildable plans in hand, we’ll schedule a meeting, usually at Home Yellowstone, to begin the next phase: selecting the details that make your home uniquely yours. The team works to “value-engineer” the project, ensuring your money goes further by maximizing quality and style within your budget. You’ll collaborate with specialty designers for flooring, tile, countertops, and cabinets, and together, we’ll guide you through every selection, including exterior and interior colors, lighting, appliances, and other design elements.

Unlike many other builders, we typically don’t use allowances. Instead, all selections are made upfront, providing a clear, accurate budget before construction begins. This unique approach has been a game changer for our clients, streamlining the process and eliminating uncertainty for a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

After all selections are finalized and we’ve gathered bids from suppliers and subcontractors, we’ll compile a detailed budget based on accurate, real-world pricing. This figure is typically very close to the final cost of the completed home, providing a reliable estimate for planning and peace of mind.

With the plans finalized, selections made, and budget set, we’re ready to start building your new home! The construction process typically takes 6 to 9 months, depending on the size and complexity of the project.