Learn about how the construction financing process works and find out the maximum amount you can get approved to build.At conclusion of this lesson you’ll have a thorough understanding of financing from beginning to close.

If things go wrong you could lose money, be unable to afford your home or risk having your home not turn out right. In this episode we dig into the risks of building a home so that you can be armed with the knowledge you need to avoid them.

Just because you can afford it, doesn’t mean you should build it.In this lesson we’ll show you our process for researching home features to ensure that the home you build is a good investment.

An overview of how we divide planning into two stages. The first is design planning wherein you will select all of the structural and design components of your build. The second stage is construction planning in which you will identify the subcontractors who will be completing the work. The episode will give you a high level perspective before digging into the details in subsequent episodes.

Explore our proven plans to select a layout that meets your objectives for functionality and traffic flow.Learn the critical elements for achieving a home that looks and feels great.

Before you start drawing plans, we’ll walk you through the structural decisions that need finalized.Learn important considerations before you’re past the point of making changes.

The starting point of a new home build it determining where you’ll build. We’ll give you walk you through our process for finding a great lot that will serve as a foundation for your home.

Discover our process for finding a residential drafting contractor who will combine your layout and style selections to create construction blueprints. Learn how to communicate your objectives effectively to the drafting contractor and ensure they don’t take unintended design liberties.In this lesson we’ll make sure that your blueprints match your vision.

In this expansive episode we take a deep dive into all of the style and design choices that will make your home extraordinary. You will learn about the aesthetic details that we incorporate into the interior and exterior of our homes to give them the timeless appeal that we’re known for. In addition to the video content, we’ll give you access to our style guide and design selection process so that you can quickly make decisions regarding the appearance of your home.

Sub-contractors will be the individuals responsible for turning your dream into reality. Ensuring that you hire contractors who perform quality workmanship at an affordable price is paramount to the build. You will learn our process for finding sub-contractors and evaluating them based on a number of factors. Upon completing the episode you will understand how to get the right people in place to build your home.

With all of your selections and sub-contractors in place,it’s time to get a better idea of how well you’re staying within budget. A price build-up combines the quotations from all sub-contractors and suppliers to produce a projected cost for your home based on real numbers. Having these figures computed before the build starts is important so that changes can be made as needed to keep costs in check.

Creating and maintaining an updated build schedule is the key component to keeping construction ticking along. In home building delays will cost you money, so it is imperative that sub-contractors are given an accurate timeframe for when they are expected to begin their work. In this episode we share our process for creating a schedule and how to best ensure that sub-contractors adhere to it.

Once you break ground there is no turning back. Before the construction process begins we share tips for how to best manage your build. It can seem daunting at times, but with a basic understanding of how to successfully manage sub-contractors and suppliers you will be on your way to a successful outcome.

The time has come to get construction in motion. We’ll run down the final tasks that need to be completed before you see your dream come to life. We discuss final steps in obtaining construction loan, purchasing builders risk insurance, filing permits and scheduling your first sub-contractors. It’s an exciting episode that will lead into the next 5 weeks of on-site construction checklists.

For each step in the construction process we’ll be visiting one of our build sites and sharing a detailed checklist. These checklists allow you to easily follow the build and ensure that nothing gets missed along the way. Our goal is to give you an easy to follow framework that will help you check that sub-contractor work aligns with your expectations.

The first of the five broader building stages is Building The Shell. In this stage of construction the exterior structure of the home is completed. It covers steps from Staking Your House through to Roofing.

Staking Your House will convey the placement of your home on the lot to excavating contractor. You will see exactly how your home will be positioned and have your last chance make a change in orientation should you choose.

Erosion controls are important in keeping dirt from leaving your lot and ending up outside your property. Proper erosion controls will keep your neighbors happy and more importantly in compliance with city codes. In many cases, failure to implement proper erosion controls could result in a stop order being issued which would halt your construction.

The construction step that is quite literally, ground breaking. Your contractor will dig the basement and/or foundation footings in preparation for concrete to be poured. In addition to digging holes, the contractor will also do an initial grade of the lot if necessary.

During this step of construction your concrete contractor will pour all footings and foundation walls for the home. Learn about the things you should look out for.

The proper installation of drainage tile and foundation waterproofing material is the first line of defense against ingress water. We’ll cover the important items to discuss with your contractor and check upon completion of their work.

Contractors will need power for tools in order to continue construction. Getting temporary electric service setup early in the build will help avoid delays from contractors not being able to work.

During this step the plumbing contractor will install all lines that must run underneath the foundation slabs. Once the concrete slabs are poured it will be very expensive to make any changes so it is important to check the locations of sinks, toilets and drains closely during this step.

Window wells provide an escape path from underground rooms and are required by most city codes for all bedrooms. During this checklist we cover the common oversights so you can make sure your installation is done correctly.

After allowing sufficient time for foundation walls to set, your excavating contractor will push dirt around the walls. This checklist will cover the things you’ll want to discuss with contractor and check upon completion of their work.

During this step the concrete flatwork will be completed. This is different than the foundation walls and could be an entirely different contractor. The checklist covers the things you’ll want to discuss with contractor and check upon completion of their work.

Construction generates a lot of trash. Having appropriate disposal on-site will ensure that contractors put garbage where it belongs. In this checklist we cover the things you’ll want to keep an eye on as it relates to rolloff dumpsters.

If your sub-contractors don’t have restrooms on-site they will find other places to dispose of this waste.Getting this in place early in the build process and keeping them serviced will ensure your site stays clean and workers are happy.

On in-town residential lots a curb cut is usually required for the drive-way to the home. In this episode we advise you on the topics you will want to discuss with the contractor to ensure your driveway is the proper width and in the right location.

Framing is one of the biggest and most important parts of your build. It is the step where your home takes shape and will form the basis upon which all other sub-contractors will complete their work. In this episode you will learn the points to discuss with your framing contractor, daily inspection areas and final checklist to ensure nothing gets missed.

The siding of your home will be the largest exterior surface exposed to the elements. It’s imperative to get it installed as per manufacturer instructions to keep you protected from the elements and meet installation requirements for the siding warranty. In this episode you will learn what to discuss with your installer before they begin and areas to inspect before proceeding to next step.

After the siding is installed it must be sealed to keep precipitation from penetrating the gaps. Caulking provides considerable defense to your home and must be done correctly. In this episode we talk about instructions to give to your contractor and commonly missed areas that you will want to be sure to check for yourself.

The final step in building the shell of your home is installing the roof. Relaying the proper instructions to your sub-contractor is key to ensuring that your roof will endure for years to come and follow the instructions required to qualify for warranty provided by roofing manufacturer. In this episode we cover the topics you will want to discuss prior to installation and points to check after completion.

The second stage of the construction process is rough-in. During this stage your subcontractors will install everything that goes inside the walls of the home. This includes electrical wiring, heating/cooling, plumbing, fireplaces and more.

The previous stage of construction generates a lot of trash and it’s important to start the next phase by cleaning up the worksite. In this episode we highlight the instructions you should provide to your cleanup contractor and which areas you will want to double check afterwards.

The use of large machinery in the previous stage of construction can leave the ground surrounding the home with large ruts that can make it difficult for contractors to access the home. A rough grade will also remove low areas where water could pool and create issues. In this episode we discuss how to identify whether a rough grade is necessary and what instructions to pass along to the contractor when deemed appropriate.

The heating and cooling system will keep the climate in your home maintained throughout the seasons. Proper installation will keep you comfortable, improve efficiency and reduce maintenance costs. In this episode we highlight the most important points to discuss with your contractor before they begin work and areas to inspect closely after completion.

Running water and gas lines is a critical element in achieving the functionality you desire within your home. Ensuring you have necessary lines run before finishes are installed will save you time and money. In this episode we discuss the most important instructions to emphasize to your contractor and common oversights you will want to be looking out for.

Ensuring your home is wired correctly is a cornerstone for both function and safety. An oversight could leave you with inadequate power for appliances, constant breakers being blown, insufficient lighting or lacking an outlet where you needed it. In this episode we highlight the major points to discuss with your contractor and what areas to make sure you inspect before proceeding to the next stage.

Fireplaces bring a combination of aesthetic beauty and functional heat source into your home. They will serve as a focal point of your home for many years to come. In this episode we advise you as to what instructions you should give to your contractor and the important checklist items to review before the walls start being covered in insulation.

An optional feature that can make home maintenance easier by transferring vacuumed debris immediately out of the home. For home where a central vac is desired, it must be plumbed before the walls are covered. In this episode we highlight the topics you want discuss with your contractor and final inspection checklist items.

In addition to electrical, all other wiring must be installed in the walls of your home. This includes wiring for security systems, integrated audio, home theaters, networking, phone, cable television and more. In this episode you will ensure that specifications are relayed to your contractor and they have been given proper instructions.

With all of the components installed in the walls, it’s a good time to cleanup the interior of the home before the walls start being covered. Proper cleaning at this stage can help make for a healthier environment by removing dust and make it easier to identify defects that could be masked by debris. In this episode we run through the cleanup tasks you will want to ensure are completed.

In most municipalities you will need to arrange an inspection with the local building authority before covering wiring and piping with insulation. Inspectors will want to take a close look at the work of your subcontractors to ensure it meets code requirements. In this episode we take a closer look at how to conduct a preliminary self-inspection, how to handle the inspection and complete any necessary followup.

Insulation is critical to keeping your energy costs low and meeting government imposed efficiency standards. In this episode we help you understand the key points to discuss with your contractor and how to check that they have completed work to an acceptable standard of workmanship.

Once the insulation is installed your energy auditing contractor will need to conduct an inspection to ensure compliance. In this episode we discuss how to make the inspection go smoothly by doing a preliminary run-through, discussing identified issues with the inspector and scheduling any necessary corrective action.

After everything is installed inside the walls it’s time to start applying the finishes and trim to the interior of your home. In this stage the inside of your home will be transformed with all of the style and design details that will make it your own. This is the stage where the true character of your home will come life.

In order to kickoff the interior finishes stage, drywall will be hung and mudded to begin forming the finished surfaces of your home. This step is very important because it will be highly visible throughout every room of the house. In this episode we discuss the important instructions to convey to your subcontractor, what to inspect after completion and how to schedule work for any corrective action tat was identified.

Installing garage doors will help keep the interior of the home protected from the elements, weather, vandalism and theft. In this episode we help you understand what topics to discuss with your installer to ensure doors are installed properly and what to inspect following completion.

Trim carpentry adds character and design details to your home that will bring about the style you desire. During this step the home starts to feel more polished as the little touches you’ve planned start to take shape. In this episode we cover the questions to ask your contractor before they begin, what to look for during installation and the things to inspect after completion.

Paint transforms all the walls, ceilings and trim details from unpolished into their final form. It’s a step where you start to really see your vision turn into reality. As simple as paint may sound, there is a lot that can go wrong. In this episode we help you avoid the common mistakes and have confidence your paint will turn out right. We talk you through the points to discuss with your contractor before they begin along with areas to inspect during the job and after completion.

Hard surface stone wall coverings are frequently used for fireplaces. There are many details that can be missed here including hearth height, stone color, grout type and more. In this episode we break down what you’ll want to convey to your contractor before they begin and what to inspect afterwards.

Flooring will be the surface that you literally touch each day, so it’s critical to make sure it gets done right. In this episode we talk through the most important points to discuss with your wood, tile and laminate contractors before their work commences. Upon completion you will know the what a proper installation should look like and how to correct any defects you identify.

Countertops are an expensive component that will breathe character into many areas of your home including being a major component of the kitchen. Knowing what to check will ensure that openings are cut in the correct places, there is appropriate overhang and the edge profile matches the one you ordered. In this episode we talk through points to discuss before installation and areas to check for defects after the job is complete.

The plumbing trim step will likely be the last visit your plumber will make to your home, so it’s important to make sure all plumbing work is complete. In this episode we help you understand all the small finishing details which should be installed so that you can ensure nothing gets missed. You will gain an understanding of common oversights so that you can take proactive measures to prevent them from occurring.

Installing all of the final components to complete the electrical system within the home is critical for appearance, functionality and safety. Your contractor will ensure all safety coverings are installed and light fixtures are functioning properly. In this episode we will walk through the most common items that are missed during this step so that you can avoid oversights in your build.

Unless issues persist, the HVAC trim step will be the last time your heating and cooling contractor will be on your job site. They will be installing register covers, thermostats and testing that all systems are working properly. In this episode we give you a run down of all the tasks which should be completed so you can check that the contractor hasn’t overlooked anything. Ensuring a correct installation will help improve the longevity and efficiency of the systems.

For homes that have incorporated a central vacuum system, many of the trim items can often be overlooked. In this episode we highlight how to check that you’ve received everything ordered, that the system is connected properly and all tests have been completed.

The installation of mirrors and shower doors will be one of the last components installed in the bathrooms throughout your home. In this episode we highlight some of the common omissions and oversights so that you can ensure your installer gets the job done right.

Installing appliances is fairly straight forward, but there are still things that can go wrong. In this episode we discuss some of the most common oversights that can cause big problems with both the appliances and surrounding components of the home. We’ll help you gain the knowledge you need to avoid the mistakes and keep your home in tip top shape.

Carpet installation will be the final surface of your home to be installed and will bring your interior one step closer to the finish line. In this episode we discuss the major talking points to relay to your contractor before installation and what you should check upon completion.

Installing adequate shelving in closets and storage areas of your home will greatly improve functionality. In this episode we discuss the keys to a proper installation that achieves the look and stability you want, while avoiding the common problems that can occur.

While your home may appear finished in appearance, it’s important not to forget all of the final details. You don’t want to push off these small touches, get them done so that nothing is left incomplete. In this episode we discuss the hardware that needs installed and adjusted so that you’re not left guessing what’s left. Upon completing this step everything will be installed in the home leaving just touchups and cleaning.

After the amount of traffic and construction that has taken place in your home since the initial drywall install you will have imperfections that need to be addressed. You will be inspecting, marking and scheduling repairs for all drywall surfaces in the home. Nothing will impact the perceived quality of your home more than a flawless drywall finish.

The goal of this stage is to address any remaining paint quality concerns, smudges and drywall patches. You will learn how to identify typical problem areas requiring paint touch-up.An impeccable paint job assures that the largest surface area in your home has a exceptional presentation.

Building a home generates a lot of dirt and you will want to enjoy those beautiful views that you envisioned from your dream home. After the interior and exterior painting has been completed the windows will need all dirt and paint overspray removed.

This isn’t any ordinary cleaning!The construction process will leave every surface in your home covered in dust requiring a deep and thorough cleaning.This will be the final touch before you move in.

Your insulation has been installed, inspected and now it’s time to have it tested. This crucial inspection reveals the performance of your insulation as well as meeting local building code requirements.

The goal of this step is to obtain a certificate of occupancy.This is a certificate that verifies your meets all local building codes.Banks require this document for finalizing loans and homeowners are required to have it before moving into their home. After inspecting all areas you will be informed of any items that need to be addressed prior to the issuing of this important certificate.

After the framing is complete the schedules for the interior and exterior finishes move forward independently of each other.Typically this stage will take 6-8 weeks to complete but is dependent on weather conditions.The character and design of your home will come to life as this stage progresses.

You’ve already chosen the location of your deck and now it is time to finalize the stair location, material and size of your deck.Final decisions regarding your landscape material below the deck will also need to be made during this step. Thankfully, it’s not too late to add extra space for future barbeques or family gatherings.

The use of stone and brick enhances the artistry of the front elevation of your home. From color and style of grout joint to proper drainage behind these surfaces, you will learn all of the critical information you need to ensure best design and application.

Grading, concrete mix/additives, and drainage flow are a few of the key topics we cover in this in depth episode on driveway and sidewalk areas.The old saying“set in concrete” applies literally. This step is one you can’t afford to get wrong.

In preparation for the final grade a second rough grade may be necessary.From this episode you will be able to determine if a second grade is needed on your specific job site.

Brand, quality of paint, finish and number of applications are all topics explored on the jobsite in this episode.You will also learn the key to ensuring your color looks as good on your home as it does on the paint swatch.Your home will come to life as the entryway, garages, and trim boards are now defined by color.

You might not be thinking design is critical when you think of gutters but you should.Gutters can be surprisingly unsightly when applied in the wrong location.It is also crucial to have correct water flow.In this episode you will learn how to balance aesthetics and functionality.

Whether you are accenting small areas or have a comprehensive landscaping plan, this step addresses the final touches to the exterior of your home prior to sod.You will want to be informed of plant health, warranty details and any building covenants and local building codes.

One of the most potentially challenging aspects of building and moving into a new home is maintaining newly laid sod.With a lawn irrigation system the work of watering your lawn is done for you. Proper overall layout and irrigation head location are a few of the topics discussed.

Prior to the finish grade and laying of sod your yard will need a final clean-up.All trash, concrete chunks, large rocks and remaining debris will need to be cleared from the exterior of the job site.

This is the last opportunity to fill in holes and address any slope issues. Correct grading will ensure water will effectively drain away from the foundation of the home.

After months of a dirt yard there is nothing that completes the exterior of your construction site like newly laid sod. In this episode sod type, installation boundaries, correct installation and proper care for sod post installation are each discussed.

Containment of children and/or pets, privacy and to establish boundaries are all common reasons people choose to fence in their yard. Prior to choosing fencing material and location you will need to review all neighborhood covenants and local building codes for compliance.

The goal of this episode is to educate you on how to convert your construction loan into an end loan. You will learn the finer details of the closing process including topics of lien waivers, escrow funds and essential documents needed for closing.

You have arrived at the grand finale. In this episode we take you through the final steps needed to complete your dream home. We outline how to compile your home binder which will be one of the most helpful tools you will have post build.Utilities will need to be set up and any lingering issues will be resolved before moving in.

Once you have lived in your home you will likely find small issues that need to be resolved.Whether you need to adjust a drawer or a drywall crack, these are can be easily fixed. In this episode you will receive an annual home maintenance checklist that details areas to be addressed in your home. Proper maintenance is vital for the long term care of your home.

In this video we’ll introduce you to the basic strategy of building homes for profit. We compare and contrast custom home building and spec home building. After this episode, you’ll have an understanding how to best leverage both of these building modalities.

From the legal aspects of home building to registration and licensing, we want to ensure you’re set up for success right from the start. You’ll also learn how to build your online portfolio and the best marketing tools to launch your new business.

In this episode we share the number one method we’ve used to sell homes for decades. You’ll also learn the best way to bring awareness to your builds and the exact sales lines we use on a weekly basis to get new customers.

When you meet with a prospective client for the first time you’ll need to know the right questions to ask to draw out their exact wants and needs, as well as give them confidence that you’re the right builder for their project. You will be more than equipped to successfully pitch the price proposal and close the deal after this episode.

As a builder, you could receive offers for finished spec homes, in-process spec homes or built-to-order/custom homes. In this episode you’ll learn how to navigate offers including the best way to handle deposits and negotiating the terms of sale.

Unless someone has a lot of cash, either you or your buyer will need to obtain a construction loan. Regardless of who carries the loan, you’ll need to know the general requirements and draw process for construction loans, as well as have an understanding of lien waivers.

In this episode we give you a step-by-step guide from initial brainstorming all the way to finalizing every design decision with your client. You’ll also learn which contractors you’ll need to review these decisions with to ensure you stay on track with your build.

There are two ways your profit can be decided: hard bid or cost plus. You’ll learn the ins and outs of each of these options. We also address other contingencies and considerations that come into play as you calculate profit.

At the Kick Off Meeting you will set the tone for the entire build. After reviewing the plans, proposal, pricing and specifications your client will sign all of the official documents for the build. You will receive all the necessary documents and be given a clear process for this critical meeting.

In this episode we cover four main aspects to building with a customer: communication, subcontractor – customer relationship, change orders, and general management.  Master these and you’ll be fully equipped to work with your customer throughout the build.

Before going into depth in further episodes we’ll give you the overview of the primary meetings you’ll have with your customer, which are the standard scheduled meetings, supplier meetings and non-scheduled meetings.

After this episode you’ll understand what the rough-in meetings entail, including the decisions that will need to be made prior, and how to conduct them. We’ll also give you a comprehensive list of items to cover with your client and then the decisions you’ll need to communicate to your suppliers.

There is an extensive list of items to cover related to the trim stage of your build. We cover how to conduct these meetings with your customer and subcontractor, what decisions need to be made and the follow up needed with other contractors.

When the trim is nearing completion you’ll need to review and confirm all paint and stain types and locations with your customer. Paint colors can be deceiving. We’ll make sure you know how to help your customer not make costly mistakes.

To pay your subcontractors in a timely manner you’ll need to stay on top of draws. In this episode we cover how to request draws from customers and also the lien waiver process.

We wish we didn’t have to create this episode but the reality is there will be times when you need to know how to effectively deal with problems. We give you the keys that have saved us money, time and have helped us maintain great relationships with our customers through any problem.

The final walk through is a milestone that marks the completion of the home and the final payment due. Soon to follow the homeowner gets to move into their home. In this episode you’ll learn our proven process for this critical transfer.

Escrow items, earnest money, and change orders all come into play as you calculate the final payment and settlement statement. We ensure you have the knowledge needed for the final closing of your build.

One of the best ways to set yourself apart as a builder is by handling warranties well. In this episode you will learn what your liabilities are, who is responsible for various warranty items, and how to build your own warranty program.

Before you start building homes simultaneously you’ll also need to evaluate your manpower and cashflow. Once you have multiple projects the main goal is to avoid builds colliding and causing delays. You’ll learn an organized system to ensure success as you grow your business.

Here you’ll find all the contracts and documents needed organized by stage for your build:  kickoff, construction and closing.

In this episode you’ll learn the benefits and drawbacks of turning your spec into a custom, how to make this transition and the specifics on responding to potential offers

To expand your business you’ll need more people to carry the load. You could bring on more subcontractors, hire direct employees and/or support businesses. We’ll cover our current structure and also give you keys to advance your building business.