When creating a living space that’s uniquely your own, there’s no better approach than building a custom home.

With a custom home, you get the opportunity to design a space tailored to your needs and lifestyle, which you simply can’t get from pre-fabricated or existing floor plans. Plus, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as watching your dreams come to life.

In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about designing the perfect home for you and your family, from the planning phase to final inspections and closing.

Defining Custom Home Building

A custom home build is one where you work hand in hand with an architect and homebuilder to plan, design, and enact every detail of the home’s layout and construction.

From the small fixtures to the doorknobs, the entire process is incredibly detail-oriented.

Note that it’s a very different process than purchasing a common spec home, usually made with average homebuyers in mind.

Let’s look at some of the main benefits of the custom home-building process before we look at how to build a custom home.

When you’re ready to start building your custom home, get in touch with us here!

10 Benefits of Custom Home Building

When weighing both options, you might ask, “Is building a custom home worth the extra work?”

Here are a few of the major advantages of building your own home:

1. Personalization – From the foundation to the roofing, building a custom home means taking your style and personality and turning it into something uniquely tangible.
2. Quality Control – You get a say in what materials and construction methods are and aren’t used, providing better quality assurance.
3. Energy-Efficiency – Minimize your environmental footprint by installing eco-friendly features like geo-thermal HVAC systems or modern high-efficiency windows.
4. Sustainable Features – From bamboo to cork to slate, there are several different types of eco-friendly materials which can be used to make your home more sustainable.
5. Unique Design – No matter your aesthetic, building a custom home allows you to create a unique living space that checks all your boxes.
6. Tailored Layout – Do you need a dedicated home office for you and your spouse? How about a large kitchen for extended family dinners? The world is your oyster when it comes to design!
7. Modern Technology Integration – Integrate modern home smart technology, such as high-end security systems or smart heating and cooling systems.
8. Long-Term Satisfaction – When you can build a home with high-quality materials that cater to your needs, you get to enjoy the long-lasting satisfaction that comes with it.
9. Freedom of Choice – From the ground-floor layout to the interior paint, every tiny aspect of your custom home is based on your choice.
10. Enhanced Resale Value – Most potential buyers are willing to spend more on custom homes, as they’re often built with higher construction standards, better materials, and generally command higher resale values.

Fleshing Out the Plan: 7 Steps

The first step in building a custom home is arguably the most important, as it involves setting your budget, outlining your vision, and finding the perfect site.

1. Goal Setting

The first thing you need to figure out is, what are your goals for your custom home?.

At this point, we like to help our new clients realize their vision, whether it be a thoroughly modern home with integrated smart tech or a sustainability-focused project built on eco-friendly materials or a combination of both.

2. Budget Creation

Once your main objectives are know to us, we can guide you through the process of developing a realistic budget for building a custom home. There are many categories of items and costs to be considered and you’ll need to secure all necessary “permissions” and account for all costs and expenses,  including:

• Land acquisition
• Acquisition costs
• Building Plans
• Selection of Materials
• Site surveying and engineering
• Permitting and related costs
• Sewer, Septic, and Water Services permitting and costs
• Building Material cost
• Trades and Labor
• Contingencies

With material selections and budget determinations made, and an appropriate construction contract entered into with a well-qualified contractor, you can build your dream custom home without forgoing your peace of mind and financial stability.

3. Site Selection

Selecting the ideal location for your dream home is an essential step in the journey to building your perfect residence.

When evaluating potential sites, consider a comprehensive array of factors, including the terrain’s characteristics and the site’s accessibility to essential amenities like schools, shopping centers, and medical facilities. For lots that already have existing structures, it’s important to factor in the costs and logistics of demolition and site preparation.

This detailed approach ensures that your chosen location not only meets your current needs but also supports your long-term vision for your dream home.

4. Architectural Design

You’ll collaborate with an experienced design team at this step in the process who can  turn your vision into tangible blueprints. Working with a seasoned design team is crucial, as they can take your design preferences and create a functional and beautiful custom home which incorporates all the elements you’ve envisioned and even make helpful suggestions which will further enhance the home of your dreams. 

5. Floor Plan Development

The floor plan development phase is an evolutionary step in the overall architectural design, ensuring that the home layout serves your needs and wants.

This stage involves meticulous planning and collaboration with design professionals to optimize space utilization and functionality. It’s where aesthetic preferences are balanced with practical requirements, creating a harmonious and efficient living space.

Careful consideration is given to factors like natural light, flow between rooms, and future adaptability to accommodate changing lifestyles or family needs.

6. Inspiration Gathering

This phase allows you to delve into various architectural styles, color schemes, and layout configurations, helping you envision the potential of your own home. By examining our diverse range of custom homes, you can identify elements that resonate with your personal taste and lifestyle requirements.

It’s a process of discovery, where you can mix and match ideas to formulate a unique and personal home concept that truly reflects your individuality.

The inspiration-gathering part of the process is undoubtedly the most exciting, as it gives you time to explore current home designs and assemble a design palette of sorts.

Look at our portfolio of custom homes in Virginia Beach to see if our designs spark inspiration.

7. Initial Research

Lastly, you’ll conduct your initial research to better understand specific considerations for your chosen build site, such as building codes, zoning regulations, and setback requirements.

This phase involves an in-depth investigation into local environmental factors, such as soil quality and topographical features, which can impact construction. Engaging with community planning and development offices early on can provide crucial insights into future area developments that may affect your property.

It’s also important to assess utility access and infrastructure, including water, electricity, and internet connectivity, to ensure they meet your needs. Consideration of the local climate and weather patterns will guide appropriate design and material choices, ensuring your home is both durable and comfortable.

This research lays the groundwork for a smooth building process, helping to avoid any unforeseen challenges or delays. It’s a step where thoroughness pays off, ensuring your dream home is both compliant with regulations and perfectly suited to its environment.

Selecting a Custom Home Builder

When building a custom home, your final product will only be as good as the design team and builder you work with, so finding a skilled and experienced custom home builder with a top-tier reputation, team, and portfolio is key.

Of course, your chosen builder should also commit to you and help you refine your vision of your perfect home, guiding you at every step of the design, permitting, selection, and construction processes to create a one-of-a-kind finished home…your new dream home.

There are a few reasons folks in Virginia Beach choose RBC Homes as their professional luxury custom home builders. With more than 30 years of experience, award-winning homes in our portfolio, and a deep commitment to our clients, we’re proud to say that we’ve built some of the finest luxury custom homes in the region.

Get in touch with us today so we can discuss your project!

Designing Your Dream Home: 10 Factors to Consider

There’s much to consider during the design process, from the overall architectural style to the smallest functional fixtures.

1. Architectural Styles

One of the first things you’ll want to do is determine your stylistic preferences. Do you want a charming craftsman, a clean modern build, or do you prefer another style of home?

This decision will significantly influence your home’s overall feel, from the layout to the finishing touches. Exploring various architectural styles can help clarify what resonates with you, whether it’s the elegant simplicity of a contemporary design or the rich details of a traditional style.

Your choice will also dictate the types of materials and color palettes used, as well as the landscaping that complements the architecture. It’s important to consider how your preferred style will blend with the surrounding environment and neighborhood aesthetic. Reflecting on how different architectural styles align with your lifestyle and personal tastes can make your home not just a place to live, but a true extension of your identity.

Involving an architect or designer at this stage can provide valuable insights and creative ideas to bring your vision to life.

2. Floor Plans

When our clients develop a floor plan, we urge them to think about how they operate daily. Think about how you would like the rooms to flow into one another or what kind of layout would make your daily life more functional.

This reflection should include considering the size and placement of each room, ensuring that they meet your specific needs and preferences. For instance, families might prioritize open-plan spaces that encourage interaction, while others may prefer distinct, separate rooms for privacy and quiet activities. The positioning of windows and doors is also crucial, as it affects both natural lighting and movement patterns within the home.

Remember to factor in future needs, such as space for growing families or areas that can be adapted for different uses over time. Accessibility is another key aspect, especially if the home needs to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Ultimately, a thoughtfully designed floor plan can greatly enhance comfort and convenience, making your home a truly personalized retreat.

3. Interior Layout

Similar to your floor plan, your interior layout will consider space and functionality. Do you frequently entertain guests? You might need a half-guest bathroom in the living area. Are you a dog family? If so, having easy access from your main bedroom to the backyard could make your home more functional for your furry friend or perhaps you want to incorporate a “doggy-wash” station into your design.

4. Exterior Features

Curb appeal is everything, as it’s the first impression you and everyone else will get of your home. At this part of the process, you’ll determine how you want to arrange your outdoor living spaces (balconies, patios, pool, hot tub,lounging areas, sports court, etc.) and landscaping. Want a maintenance free exterior (consider the installation of river rock in planting beds, and artificial turf in lieu of gras)?

5. Materials Selection

Beyond your home’s aesthetic, the materials you choose can impact the way that it holds up as the years go by.

Selecting the right materials is not just about appearance; it’s also about durability, maintenance, and environmental impact. High-quality, sustainable materials can ensure longevity and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Consider the local climate when choosing materials, as some may be better suited to withstand specific weather conditions, like humidity, heat, or cold. Energy efficiency is another critical factor, with materials like insulated windows and doors contributing to reduced energy costs and a more comfortable living environment.

Additionally, choosing non-toxic, eco-friendly materials can improve indoor air quality and contribute to a healthier home environment. The right combination of materials can elevate your home’s functionality, comfort, and overall value, making it a wise investment for the future.

6. Color Schemes

Do you want a neutral shade with some pops of color here and there or a bold palette with striking details at every corner? There are endless color combinations that can profoundly impact the aesthetic of your custom home.

The choice of color scheme sets the tone for your home’s interior and exterior.

Neutral tones can create a serene and timeless atmosphere, offering flexibility in decor and easy adaptability to future style changes. On the other hand, bold and vibrant colors can make a statement, reflecting your personality and adding character to your living space. When selecting colors, consider the lighting in each room, as it can significantly influence how the colors appear.

It’s also important to think about color continuity throughout the home to ensure a cohesive look. Experimenting with accent colors through accessories or feature walls can add depth and interest without overwhelming the space.

Remember, the colors you choose will shape the ambiance of your home, making it crucial to select a palette that resonates with your personal style and enhances your everyday living experience.

7. Customization Options

From walk-in closets to multi-car garages, customizing your home is where the little details take personal form. This is your opportunity to tailor every aspect of your home to your specific lifestyle and preferences.

Consider elements like spacious kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances for those who love cooking, or home theaters and game rooms for entertainment enthusiasts.

Outdoor living spaces, such as patios and pools, can also be designed to suit your relaxation and entertainment needs. Eco-friendly options, like solar panels or energy-efficient HVAC systems, can be incorporated for sustainability-conscious homeowners.

Don’t forget about the practicalities, like ample storage space or built-in smart home technology, which can significantly enhance the functionality and convenience of your home.

Ultimately, each customization option you choose is a step towards creating a home that is uniquely yours, reflecting your tastes, hobbies, and the way you live your life.

8. Design Elements

Find design elements that resonate with your chosen aesthetic, whether unique plumbing fixtures, a detailed fireplace mantle, or exposed beams.

These elements are the finishing touches that transform a house into a home, showcasing your personal style and attention to detail. For instance, custom cabinetry in the kitchen or bathrooms can add both elegance and functionality, while unique lighting fixtures can create ambiance and highlight key areas of your home.

Flooring choices, from hardwood to luxury tiles, also play a significant role in defining each room’s character. Architectural details like crown molding, wainscoting, or coffered ceilings can add a layer of sophistication and charm. Don’t overlook the power of window treatments and door hardware to complement your home’s overall theme.

Thoughtfully chosen design elements not only enhance the beauty of your home but also contribute to its comfort and livability, making your living space a true reflection of your personal taste.

9. Aesthetic Preferences

Your aesthetic will guide the custom home-building process, so consider any personal touches or motifs you’d like to incorporate.

This is the stage where your vision starts to materialize. Think about themes or styles that you are drawn to, such as minimalist, rustic, or contemporary, and how they can be woven into the design of your home.

Personal touches could include bespoke art installations, family heirlooms, or custom-designed features that reflect your hobbies or interests. The inclusion of unique architectural features, like arched doorways or custom-built staircases, can also add character and distinction to your home.

Landscaping is another aspect where personal style can be expressed, creating outdoor spaces that complement the architecture and provide a tranquil retreat.

Remember, these personal touches are what will make your home distinctly yours, providing a sense of comfort and belonging.

10. Functional Considerations

Of course, while aesthetics are important, ensuring the space is functional is half the battle of building a custom home. This is where having an experienced builder like RBC Homes on your side is helpful.

Contact us today to see how we can guide you through designing and building your dream custom home.

Budgeting and Financing

Before you begin your custom home-building project, it’s important that you understand the necessary budgeting and financing requirements to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

When it comes to budgeting, you can consult with professional home-builders and architects early on to learn more about local costs, permitting, contingency funds, and more.

When you’re ready to take the first step, there are many financing options, some of the most popular of which include:

• Construction-Permanent Loans (with land advance)
• Traditional Mortgages
• Home Equity Loans
• Government Programs (VA, FHA, etc.)

Permits and Regulations

We can’t stress enough the importance of ensuring your custom home-building project follows the necessary permitting and regulatory requirements. Consulting with qualified professionals is the best way to make sure you’re compliant with and consider the following:

• Zoning Regulations
• Environmental Permits
• Building Codes
• Lot Setback Requirements
• Impact of Easements and Covenants
• Utility and Infrastructure Approvals
• Architectural Review Board Approvals

The failure to comply with proper permitting and regulatory requirements when building your own home can lead to costly financial and legal consequences.

Get in touch with us here at RBC Homes to learn more about the initial permitting process.

The Construction Process

During the construction process, you see your design come to life. It’s an exciting process, to say the least, though it also requires careful planning and orchestration at each step.

Site Preparation

From clearing the land to creating a stable, level foundation, site preparation is the first step of the overall process.

This phase involves crucial tasks like soil testing to ensure the ground can support the structure, as well as any necessary grading or excavation work. Addressing drainage and erosion control at this stage is essential to prevent future structural problems. The process may also include removing any existing structures, trees, or debris to clear the way for construction. Ensuring access routes for construction equipment and materials is another key consideration.

The goal of site preparation is to create a solid and secure foundation for your home, setting the stage for a smooth and efficient building process. This meticulous groundwork is vital for the longevity and safety of your home, making it an indispensable part of the custom home-building journey.

Foundation Construction

Your foundation is integral to the rest of your home, meaning it has to be as strong as possible, and appropriate for the environment in which the home is built. If built in a coastal environment, you will need to consider elevating your home on pilings (with or without a grade beam which is both necessary and prudent when building on the beachfront). If constructed inland, determination must be made as to whether or not the environmental conditions will accommodate a basement or should the home be constructed on a concrete slab?

Framing and Structural Work

Your contractor will erect the floors, walls, and roof at this part of the construction process, creating the “skeleton” framework.

This stage is critical as it shapes the basic structure of your home and defines its overall dimensions and spatial layout. Precision in framing is essential for ensuring the structural integrity and alignment of your home. It’s also during this phase that window and door placements are established, which are key to your home’s functionality and aesthetics.

The type of materials used for framing, whether wood or steel, will depend on your design preferences and local building codes. This phase also involves implementing essential systems like plumbing and electrical conduits within the framework.

The completion of the framing and structural work gives you a tangible sense of your home’s scale and design, marking a significant milestone in the construction process.

Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC “Rough-In” Installations

Once the basic structure is in place, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems will be installed before they’re closed in with drywall.

This stage involves laying the groundwork for essential utilities and services. The plumbing rough-in includes the installation of pipes for water and waste lines, carefully planned to ensure efficient water flow and accessibility for future maintenance.

Electrical rough-in involves running wires through the frame, setting up outlets, switches, and the main electrical panel to meet your home’s power needs and ensure safety. For the HVAC system, this is when ductwork is installed, considering optimal air flow and energy efficiency.

This phase requires skilled tradespeople to ensure that all installations comply with building codes and regulations. The completion of these systems is crucial as they form the backbone of your home’s functionality, providing comfort, convenience, and safety for years to come.

Insulation and Drywall

Insulation is added to regulate internal temperature before the structure is enclosed with drywall.

Consider the exterior wall thickness during planning, as it affects insulation thickness, impacting energy efficiency and costs. The right insulation type, whether fiberglass batts, spray foam, or foam boards, is crucial for thermal efficiency. Insulation installation in walls, floors, and ceilings is vital for comfort and noise reduction. After insulation, drywall is installed, transitioning from structural work to finishing, setting the stage for painting and interior design.

This phase is key to energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.

Interior and Exterior Finishes

From interior paint to exterior siding to roofing, this part of the construction process is where your home truly begins to take shape.

During this stage, the selection of materials and colors for interior and exterior surfaces plays a pivotal role in defining the character of your home.

Interior painting sets the mood for each room, reflecting your personal style and creating the desired ambiance. The exterior siding choices not only contribute to the curb appeal but also provide durability and weather resistance. Roofing, a critical component, ensures the home’s protection from the elements and complements the overall architectural design.

These elements collectively bring your home’s design concept to life, making it visually appealing and functionally robust.

Flooring Installation

This step is crucial in defining the aesthetics and functionality of each room. The choice of flooring material should align with your lifestyle needs and design preferences.

Carpet offers warmth and comfort, ideal for bedrooms and living areas, while tile or marble provides a durable and elegant option for bathrooms and kitchens. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a versatile choice, offering the look of hardwood with increased durability and moisture resistance, suitable for high-traffic areas.

Hardwood floors bring timeless beauty and can be customized with different stains and finishes.

Proper installation is key to ensure longevity and performance of the flooring, making this phase a significant milestone in realizing your vision for the home.

Cabinetry and Fixtures

Kitchens and bathrooms are typically the main focus here, as during this part of the process, you’ll add plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, cabinetry, counter-tops, backsplashes, and appliances. Do you need one or two refrigerators? What about ovens and dishwashers (need two)?

This phase is where functionality meets style. The selection of kitchen and bathroom fixtures, from faucets to sinks, should balance practicality with aesthetic appeal.

Lighting choices in these spaces can transform their look and feel, enhancing both ambiance and task efficiency. The design and installation of cabinetry are vital for storage and space optimization. Countertops and backsplashes not only add visual interest but also need to be durable and easy to maintain. Appliance choices, like deciding between one or two refrigerators, or the number of ovens and dishwashers, should reflect your cooking and lifestyle habits.

This stage is critical in creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also cater to your specific needs and daily routines.

Building Inspections and Final Walk-Thru

During the construction process, there will be periodic governmental inspections of your home at virtually every phase of construction. The Contractor must complete all construction activities and achieve approvals from the local Building Inspector. Before settling into your new custom built home, you’ll complete a final walk through with your Builder and create a final “punch-out” list with the Builder who will then complete the agreed “punch-out” work. Your home will be warranted by the Builder against defects for a period of one (1) year.

Landscaping

Lastly, you’ll move beyond the walls of your home to finish your custom landscaping and add final touches to your home’s outdoor living spaces.

This final stage transforms the exterior into a welcoming and functional extension of your home.

Custom landscaping, ranging from garden beds to water features, enhances the property’s aesthetics and can be tailored to suit your maintenance preferences. Outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, or outdoor kitchens, are designed for relaxation and entertainment, reflecting your lifestyle.

The choice of outdoor lighting, furniture, and decorative elements adds character and comfort.

This phase is crucial in creating a harmonious balance between your home’s interior and the natural environment, offering a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living.

Quality Assurance

Every home we build here at RBC Homes comes with quality assurance standards. This means that we verify the overall structural integrity and functionality of each custom home while making sure every aspect of the home adheres to building codes.

We encourage our clients to work with us during the inspection process so they can see how their expectations align with the actual construction.

Safety and Security

Safety and security are vital concerns of ours here at RBC Homes, which is why we promote both construction site safety and emergency preparedness throughout each phase of the construction process.

We also urge clients to integrate safety and security features into their custom homes, including smart home surveillance technology, smart locks, secure entry points, and exterior lighting.

Conclusion

There’s nothing that can provide the same level of pride and satisfaction as building a custom home, and our team at RBC Homes would love to take that journey with you.

If you’re considering building your dream home, take the first step today and contact us. We look forward to working with you.

Building a custom home is your opportunity to incorporate the home features you’ve always dreamed about. Luxury custom home builders can bring your  dreams to fruition, but what do they do? Why hire them?

A superior luxury custom home builder will work closely with you when designing and constructing your custom home. They’ll use state-of-the-art technology and high-end materials to build a beautiful, one-of-a-kind property that lasts and institute eco-friendly measures to save on your energy bills. The builders’ expertise, passion for excellence in craftsmanship, and project management are all hiring benefits.

This introduction to custom home building will present the responsibilities undertaken by the builder, the benefits of working with a custom builder, pricing considerations, and questions to ask when selecting a builder.

What Do Luxury Custom Home Builders Do?

A luxury custom home builder is tasked with assisting you through the process of incorporating the ideas of your dreams to life, first by listening to you, and then working to incorporate your ideas paired with the builder’s unique knowledge and perspective into a plan, and a description of materials you want used in the construction of the home of your dreams.

To the Custom Home Builder who truly cares, customer satisfaction starts on day one.

Find one who understands this concept, and who is dedicated  to delivering superior quality craftsmanship, and has access to and knowledge of high-value materials, knowledge of the nuances of the area in which you want to build (coastal construction significantly differ from inland construction), and who can achieving your construction goals intelligently and expediently.

Here’s how in 6 steps:

1. Create a Custom Floor Plan

Each custom home build is unique, so a luxury builder will not rely on floor plans from past projects. You can count on the creation of an individualized  new floor plan and customized elevations when building a custom home.

You’re in the driver’s seat, dictating what goes into the floor plan and where. You should consider factors such as your budget, the available square footage, and what kinds of features you’ve always longed for in a home when determining your floor plan requirements.

After gathering ideas and brainstorming with the Builder and about what to include, the next step in the process is bringing those ideas to life via a concept site plan illustrating your interior floor plan with or without potential furniture layout, as well as the exterior look (elevations) of your home.

2. Develop a Site Plan

Once the “footprint” of your home is set, the next step is to develop a site plan which illustrates the location of your home (accounting for front yard, rear yard, and side yard set-back requirements, easements, etc.). The site plan will also illustrate the location of other planned improvements such as the location of a swimming pool, walkways, decking, and other features like driveway location, landscaping, and utilities. Get the Necessary Permits

New construction often requires permits, such as demolition, building, gas, electrical,  grading, mechanical, plumbing, and occupancy permits. You must have many of these permits before construction can start. Typically, your Builder will secure the permits from the applicable governmental agency, before the custom project can proceed.

3. Excavate the Property

Breaking ground on what will become your new dream home is an exciting moment. Building a custom home entails using excavating machinery to clear the way for what will become the bones of the home.

4. Build the Home

After excavation, the next task is to install the all important foundation for your home. There are many types of foundation, and selecting exactly the right type of foundation will depend on soil and environmental conditions present at the location of your build. An experienced luxury custom home builder will know what to recommend and how to construct the right foundation to appropriately support you new home.

The next stages of building a custom home include laying the “groundworks” (extending sewer and water services) from the curb under your home for later extension up and through the home. Next is framing the home to include roofing and window and door installations followed by “rough-in” work being the installation of electrical wiring and components together with piping for plumbing, and HVAC duct work. Next up is, the installation of insulation and then drywall.

5. Add Interior Finishes

Luxury custom home builders can also add unique interior finishes, crafting your home in elegant textiles and materials that reflect your taste and match your budget. You will have a home that’s ready to move into when construction finishes.

6. Renovate or Remodel Existing Properties

You don’t always need to build your dream home from scratch. Remodeling or renovating your home could be the solution if most of your home is tenable but needs improvements to take it to the next level. Remodeling is a more cost-effective solution that can still increase curb appeal and the value of your home.

. Build your home with us today – schedule your free consultation.

Are you ready to plan your custom home?

RBC Homes is a leading Virginia Beach custom home builder. We specialize in custom home builds, renovations, and remodeling in Virginia Beach. Our project management, specialized skill sets, and premium materials are what your dream home needs

• Click here to check our success stories, this will help you create ideas for your property.

• You can also view our innovative luxury home design gallery here.

• Discuss your project with us and make those home dreams a reality!

6 Advantages of Choosing a Luxury Custom Home Builder

Building a custom home with a luxury builder means your property will be a cut above the rest. Here are some advantages you can anticipate versus working with a standard builder.

First Advantage: High-End Materials and Finishes

Luxury custom home builders invite you to explore the world of premium, rare materials and finishes that give your home lavishness and appeal. Custom-made fixtures built from exotic woods, rare marbles, natural stone, ceramic and porcelain stoneware, and smart glass set your home apart.

The impeccable level of detail luxury builders use when building a custom home means nothing is too small to escape their focus.

Their unerring dedication to each project and years of experience yield a level of craftsmanship that ensures your dream home comes out of your visions and straight into real life. The elevated aesthetics of your luxury home will make you immensely proud to call it your own.

Second Advantage: State-of-the-Art Smart Technology

Today’s smart technology is designed to simplify everyday processes, whether it’s keeping the kids entertained for several minutes so you can get an important task done or lowering the lights, providing entertainment, and locking up the house before bed.

Your custom luxury home will be a testament to the latest advancements in smart home technology. You’ll marvel at how your property seamlessly integrates the best in entertainment, security, and automation in one system.

The efficiency and convenience of these systems create a high-end living environment and assist you in streamlining your daily routine, save time, and enable you to sleep more comfortably at night, knowing your home is safe.

Third Advantage: Luxury Amenities

Luxury amenities when building a custom home give your property that unique edge. You select the amenities that add flavor and individuality, such as indoor swimming pools, spa retreats, wine cellars, sizable home gyms, and private theaters.

Specialamenities crafted and installed by luxury custom home builders can enable you to enjoy your hobbies and interests in the privacy of your own home and on the highest level imaginable.  Customized amenities afford more entertaining options for friends and family and elevate your quality of life.

Fourth Advantage: Eco-Friendly Luxury

A custom home build uses eco-friendly measures for each luxury feature. Sustainability in luxury homes is a trend that’s rapidly gained steam, including recyclable materials, Low-E windows, cool roofs, and geothermal HVAC systems.

According to This Old House, 28 percent of homebuyers in 2023 agree that sustainable siding, doors, and windows are important.

Going green benefits your luxury property in many ways. It will have a greater curb appeal and a  smaller carbon footprint. You can rest assured you’re making our planet a better place, and you will enjoy greater savings on your monthly utilities.

Fifth Advantage: Cost Considerations and Financing

Building a custom home requires financing considerations. New home construction prices vary based on factors such as the interior and exterior finishes, building materials and quality, labor, and the size of the home.

Popular Loans for Custom Homes:

• Construction/Permanent loans are a popular financing vehicle which are ideal for the individual working with a Custom Home Builder. Most lenders make these loans available for a 12 to 18 month term for construction and upon completion, the loan converts to a permanent loan for a term as long as 30-years. The benefits of this type of loan are several. First, you would typically pay interest only during the construction period. Another is, you can usually lock your long-term interest rate through the entire construction period. Once construction is complete, you would typically commence making interest and principal payments at a rate you locked in at a much earlier date.

• Jumbo mortgages (or loans) are for high-cost properties like luxury custom homes. The conforming loan amount is substantially larger than most loans, usually in the five figures but sometimes six figures (the millions). The interest rates can vary, possibly matching conforming interest rates, but not exclusively.  You must have a spotless credit score to qualify.

• Government-backed loans, including United States Department of Agriculture or USDA, Veterans Affairs or VA, and Federal Housing Administration or FHA loans, are worth investigating. VA loans have low interest rates and require a down payment of zero dollars. USDA loans also allow you to purchase a home without putting money down. FHA loans reduce the down payment rate to 3.5 percent, even if you have poor credit. The qualification criteria for government loans vary.

• Adjustable-rate mortgages are 30-year home loans with fluid interest levels that mirror the market rates. This mortgage has an introductory period of between five and 10 years of fixed interest, then the interest can increase or decrease.

The Enduring Value of a Custom-Built Luxury Home

Investing in luxury custom homes is possible through the above loans. The return on investment on a custom property is immense.

The custom elements, level of detail, and high-quality craftsmanship from luxury custom home builders of the property increase its curb appeal versus a standard home in your neighborhood with no customization elements.

The enduring value of the home, acquired through the meticulous selection of high-end materials, ensures your home requires less maintenance and fewer surprise repairs throughout the years.

Measuring the immense satisfaction of living in your dream home is impossible, but your days will certainly be happier.

• Our article, How to Build a Custom Home, provides a detailed step-by-step guide of the entire process of building a custom home, including cost estimations.

Choosing the Right Luxury Custom Home Builder

Asking the above questions during a thorough interview is an excellent way to ensure you work with a reputable luxury custom home builder. The following tips will also help you select the right team for building a custom home.

Prioritize Experience

Experience speaks for itself in the construction industry. A builder with decades in the industry understands its market, and the features home buyers typically seek. They have built custom homes of all sizes and varieties and can construct your coastal dream home according to your budget and timeframe.

Focus on Quality

Quality should be at the heart of the luxury custom home builder’s services. Without quality, a home lacks that luxury appeal and will not be worth the money you put into it. Testimonials and experience are testaments to quality, as are a photo-rich portfolio, guarantees, and warranties to put your mind at ease.

RBC Homes prioritizes transparency, from designing your custom home to post-construction services.

Send us an email or give us a call today to begin planning your home.

Conclusion

Hiring a top-notch luxury custom home builder for your project is essential.

Check our articles on our blog: they are additional resources for exploring further.

• How to Build a Custom Home – Exploring 6 Major Steps
• Building a Custom Home – All You Need to Know!
• Luxury Custom Homes – The Art of the Bespoke

You can also contact RBC Homes if you’re considering building a custom home. We have more than 30 years of experience constructing and renovating properties across Virginia Beach.

Experience the best in coastal luxury – contact us today.