We think new construction is a great approach to purchasing a home now due to the strong incentives builders are offering. Lower interest rates, cash towards closing and free upgrades are commonly seen depending on the home and how far along it is. Of course, these incentives are coming from production builders such as DR Horton, Adams Homes and more who can build relatively quickly, efficiently and with less cost than you will find from a custom builder such as Barry Bullard Homes or ICI. Let’s look at the differences between builders:
- Home Design and Customization:
- Production: Production builders construct homes in bulk, typically in planned communities or subdivisions. They offer a limited range of pre-designed floor plans and design options. While some customization might be available, it’s often within predefined parameters.
- Custom: Custom builders create unique, one-of-a-kind homes based on the specific desires of the homeowner. Clients have more flexibility in design, layout, and finishes. They can work closely with architects and designers to create a fully customized home.
- Scale and Volume:
- Production: These builders are large-scale operations, constructing many homes simultaneously. They focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness, benefiting from economies of scale.
- Custom: Custom builders are typically smaller operations, and they may only build a handful of homes each year. They concentrate on quality and craftsmanship and cater to individual clients.
- Pricing:
- Production Homes built by production builders tend to be more budget-friendly due to their ability to buy materials in bulk and their streamlined construction processes.
- Custom-built homes are generally more expensive because of the unique features, designs, and materials chosen by the homeowner. They require more time and attention to detail, which can increase costs.
- Timeline:
- Production: These builders often have shorter construction timelines because of their standardized processes and the ability to work on multiple homes simultaneously.
- Custom: Custom-built homes can take longer to complete, as they involve intricate design and client-specific changes. Delays can occur if there are design revisions or unique materials involved.
- Available Locations:
- Production: These builders often have developments in various locations, making it easier to choose a neighborhood or community.
- Custom: Custom builders can work on land you own or help you find a suitable lot, but they may have limitations based on their geographic reach.
- Warranty and Support:
- Production: They often provide standard warranties for their homes, covering defects and issues for a specific period after construction.
- Custom: Warranties can vary, and it’s important for clients to negotiate warranty terms with custom builders. They may offer more personalized support.
In summary, production builders focus on efficiency and cost savings through standardized designs and processes, making them a popular choice for those looking for more affordable homes in planned communities. Custom builders, on the other hand, offer a highly personalized homebuilding experience, catering to individual preferences and resulting in unique, often more expensive, homes. The choice between the two depends on your budget, timeline, and the level of customization you desire for your new home.
Whichever way you choose to go, North Central Florida has good production and custom builders. We can help you navigate to your dream home either way.