How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Home in Georgetown, TX?

If you're trying to figure out how long it'll take to build a custom home, you came to the right place. Our guide here has you covered.

​Georgetown, TX’s town square is considered the most beautiful in Texas. It truly has a little something for everyone with a downtown full of wine rooms, art galleries, and delicious restaurants.

Its small-town vibe and proximity to Austin make Georgetown a perfect place to settle down. No wonder you want to build a custom home in the "Red Poppy Capital of Texas!"

Just how quickly can you move into the home of your dreams?

Keep reading to learn more about the home building process and the custom home timeline.

The Planning Phase
According to the U.S. Census Bureau's Survey of Construction, it took an average of 10.8 months for a contractor to build a home in 2020. Because custom homes are typically more complex, planning and building one takes longer than a production home. 

However, that number only takes into account construction time. There's a lot to be done before construction begins. 

When selecting a model or production home, potential home sites are typically slotted for you. All of the home's features and products are already built-in. When building a custom house, you'll start from scratch. This is exciting because you'll get to pick your lot and build your home exactly where you want it.

There isn't a typical time limit for the planning phase. How long it will take depends on how motivated you are to complete the project.

The Designing Phase
Next, you'll need to select an architect and builder for your custom home project.

You will work with a designer to design the plans for your home, then select the features, products, and amenities. This is also when you'll apply for building permits so construction can begin.

In Georgetown, a building permit is necessary to construct, alter, repair, enlarge, change, or demolish any building or structure. You can apply for a permit online on the City of Georgetown's website.

Depending on how prepared you are, the preliminary design phase may take up to six months. It sounds like a long time, but this time is necessary to make the required selections and revisions. 

If you've already purchased a lot, you'll supply your architect with site information and details on potential neighborhood regulations or boundaries. Come prepared to meetings with your designer with plenty of ideas and photos. While you likely know exactly what you want, nothing can communicate the style and design you want better than photos. 

The Construction Phase
When it's time to build, the first phase of construction includes prepping the home site and pouring the foundation. This typically takes around three weeks but could take longer if tree removal or sloped land is involved.

This phase includes rough framing, sheathing, and roofing. There's also electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, security systems, rough mechanicals, vents, insulation installation, and more to worry about.

Custom homes are usually more complex than production ones, so this work requires more extensive products and materials and higher craftsmanship. The same applies to windows, doors, installation of siding or exterior brick, flooring, lighting, plumbing fixtures, appliances, and so on.

If you're building a custom home, you may also be interested in energy-efficient solutions.

Sophisticated, green construction might include renewable energy systems like solar water heating and solar electricity. You may also want to upgrade your home with an outdoor kitchen, a storm shelter, extensive outdoor decking, or even an elevator.

Custom Home Building Timeline Variables
Several factors can potentially affect the construction time of your custom home. A few examples include:

• How long it takes to get permits and building approvals (this can vary due to your local building department)
• The complexity and size of your custom home (as well as the efficiency and competency of your builder)
• Inclement weather, including heavy rain or snow, can lead to significant construction delays
• Shortages of suppliers can stall construction (including a lack of subcontractors)
• Less-than-ideal site conditions (such as a hilly lot)
• Choice of area (building generally takes longer in rural areas than metro ones)

Another thing that will significantly impact the time it takes to build your custom home is the time it takes you to make design selections and decisions. It's crucial to follow material and product ordering lead times. Always work with your contractor to ensure decisions aren't delayed.

Delayed decisions can lead to long delays in the completion of your new home. It's best to make these decisions during the design phase stick to your choices throughout the building process.

Build a Custom Home in Georgetown, TX
If you're ready to build a custom home, it's time to start the process. 

You'll need a custom home builder with an excellent track record and is respected in your community. Always ask for testimonials before signing any contracts—it's always wise to get social proof. 

Jeff Watson Homes is a Georgetown, TX custom home builder. We focus on custom home design and are committed to delivering unmatched quality construction. We have an excellent reputation for exceptional customer service and acute attention to detail. 

We can build the home of your dreams in any style. We have experience building several design styles, including traditional, contemporary, hill country, Tuscan, Mediterranean, southern, country french, and others! If you're looking to be involved in the design process, we encourage your involvement in the process. We're a small company, which gives us ample time to focus on each client and tailoring a home to your needs.

When you're ready to make your dream home a reality, we're available. Contact us today for a free quote.