Custom Home Building in Huntsville: The Essential Guide w/ Carlisle Builders

Keith Carlisle of Carlisle Builders joins Ben to discuss all things custom home construction.  How is it different from spec builds, how much does it cost, how long does it take, what the current building trends are, and so much more.  Keith Carlisle is a leader in the custom home building space in Huntsville, AL.  He can be reached at keithcarlisle7@gmail.com and https://carlislebuildershuntsville.com/ 

Custom Home Building:

1. Personalization: Custom home building is all about creating a home tailored to the homeowner’s specific desires and needs. It provides the opportunity to have full control over the design, layout, materials, and finishes.

2. Unique Design: In a custom-built home, homeowners work closely with architects and builders to design a one-of-a-kind residence. This allows for creative freedom and the incorporation of unique features and architectural elements.

3. Cost Variability: The cost of a custom-built home can vary significantly depending on the scope of the project, the chosen materials, and the level of customization. Homeowners have the flexibility to set their budget and make choices accordingly.

4. Longer Timeline: Custom homes often take longer to build than spec homes. The design and planning phases can be time-consuming, and the construction timeline can extend due to the intricacies of custom design.

5. Greater Involvement: Homeowners are intimately involved in every aspect of the project, from selecting the land and design to choosing subcontractors and overseeing construction. This level of involvement can be fulfilling but also demanding.

6. Potential for Higher Resale Value: A well-designed and quality-built custom home can potentially have a higher resale value compared to spec homes since it reflects the homeowner’s preferences and needs.

7. Construction Loans: Custom home building typically requires a construction loan, which is a short-term loan to cover the building costs. Once the home is completed, the homeowner can refinance the loan into a traditional mortgage.

Spec Building (Production Building):

1. Ready-Made Homes: Spec building involves constructing homes without a specific buyer in mind. Builders create a house with a predefined design and set features, aiming to sell it to the general market.

2. Limited Customization: Spec homes are designed to appeal to a broader range of potential buyers, so they often feature neutral designs and standard finishes. Buyers have limited input into the design and materials.

3. Fixed Price: Spec homes are typically sold at a fixed price, which can be advantageous for buyers who want a clear understanding of their costs upfront. There’s less uncertainty regarding the final price.

4. Faster Construction: Spec homes tend to be built more quickly than custom homes. Builders follow a predefined plan, and there’s less back-and-forth in the design phase, resulting in shorter construction times.

5. Less Homeowner Involvement: Buyers of spec homes have less involvement in the construction process. They may have input into some finishes or optional features, but they do not have the same level of control as in custom building.

6. Financing Simplicity: Financing a spec home is typically straightforward, as it involves a traditional mortgage. Buyers don’t need a construction loan, which simplifies the financing process.

7. Resale Value: Spec homes can offer good resale value if built with quality materials and workmanship. However, they may not fetch as high a premium as custom homes with unique features.

In summary, the choice between custom home building and spec building hinges on individual preferences, needs, and circumstances. Custom home building is ideal for those who want a home tailored to their exact specifications, are willing to invest time and effort in the design and construction process, and have a flexible budget. On the other hand, spec building is a more streamlined approach suitable for buyers who seek a quicker, more predictable home purchase with less customization but with the advantage of a fixed price.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on the homeowner’s priorities, budget, and timeline, as well as their desire for unique design and the level of involvement they are willing to commit to the home-building process. Both custom and spec building have their merits, and the right choice depends on what aligns best with the homeowner’s vision and lifestyle.

A note from Ben: In the post-COVID era of construction, the cost of custom-building a home is significant. Before you buy land to build on, consult a real estate professional and/or a custom home builder to determine what the all-in cost could be after buying land, then building. Per Keith Carlisle in the above video, custom building can easily exceed $200/sqft AFTER the lot/land is purchased.  

Lot/Land search: Pay special attention to slope, rock, topography, geology, water flow, flood plains, etc. You can search for land HERE via our website.  Check flood plains via FEMA's website HERE.