Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I afford a custom-built home?

Many people have the misconception that a custom-built home must be both expensive and large. While this could be the case in some circumstances, it is certainly not the norm. Custom-built simply means “built to order according to the customer’s specifications.” An example would be homes for the Baby Boomer generation, many of whom are substantially down-sizing. Much of their focus now is on energy efficiency, low maintenance, and incorporation of certain amenities they may have sacrificed previously. Most important is their desire to be wise with dollars spent as they enter retirement.

2. How much per square foot does it cost to build a custom home?

This is undoubtedly one of the most frequently asked questions, but also one of the most difficult to answer. There are many variables both in design and amenities. The most efficient way to obtain a realistic estimate is to meet personally with a builder to discuss your ideas. You are doing yourself a gross disservice by simply shopping square footage pricing over the telephone or Internet.

3. What protection do I have as a consumer in the construction of a new home?

Building a home is one of the largest investments you’ll make in your life. It’s essential for you to be proactive by thoroughly investigating builders during the selection process.

As of January 1, 2001, all home builders operating in Maryland except those building exclusively in Montgomery County are required to be registered with the Home Builders Registration Unit. This unit is part of the Consumer Protection Division of the office of the Attorney General. Doing business with a registered home builder will ensure that you are eligible for all protections provided by your contract and by state law. For more information, contact the Home Builder Registration Unit at (toll-free) 1-877-259-4525 or by visiting www.oag.state.md.us/homebuilder.

4. I have friends who recently were involved with a new building project. Their Contractor preferred that they not even visit the jobsite. I want to feel as though I'm part of the building process. How involved can I be while my project is under construction?

Whether it is a residential or commercial project, Jarrettsville Builders encourages its clients to be as involved as they feel comfortable. This includes visiting the site on a regular basis to provide input, which enables the job to proceed more efficiently. In light of the financial investment you are making, your participation in the entire process is of the utmost importance.

5. Is it advisable to act as a General Contractor to build my own home? Could I save a substantial amount of money?

We've all heard of people who assumed the responsibility to build their new home. In some cases, the project may have proceeded without any major catastrophes and the homeowner does realize some savings. More often, we hear the endeavor described as a "nightmare" or "horror story." The primary reason individuals consider acting as contractor is to save money. That is noteworthy, but there are a number of other issues to consider.

Since building a home is one of the largest investments you’ll ever make, it makes sense to leave the construction of this lifetime investment to a seasoned professional with the expertise to orchestrate the complexities of building a new home.

Questions to ask yourself:

A. Do I realistically have the time to undertake something of this magnitude?
From the design process through completion of construction it is not unusual to invest 6 to 12 months depending upon size and complexity of design. Overseeing daily site activities, meetings with subcontractors, vendors and inspectors consume a great deal of time. Factor in making selections, ordering materials and dealing with extraordinary amounts of paperwork translates to a full time job.

B. Am I competent enough to oversee the project on a daily basis, ordering materials as needed and directing the various subcontractors?
A quality custom built home simply does not evolve because people show up to work at the site. Quality comes about due to careful planning, an eye for detail and a thorough knowledge of the building codes. Subcontractors must be of the highest caliber however most non-professionals have difficulty engaging more experienced subcontractors as their loyalties lie with the professional contractor.

For homeowners who simply like to be more involved with the hands on aspect of the construction process we recommend they consider accomplishing selected items with which they feel competent and would not delay the overall construction schedule. For example, painting is one task many homeowners are willing to handle in order to reduce building cost.

C. Will overseeing the construction of my new home be in my or my family's best interest?
If not, seek the help of a seasoned professional.

6. Our organization is considering building a new facility or possibly expanding our existing one. What do we need to consider before we begin this process?

The number one priority is to determine a realistic budget. How much can we comfortably afford to invest? A reputable commercial lender will assist you in making that determination. It is unproductive to invest time and money in preparing construction documents only to find out later that the project isn't affordable.

7. Is it possible to purchase a building lot from Jarrettsville Builders?

We make an effort to secure prime building sites for our clients. However, due to the current demand and limited supply, it is becoming more difficult to maintain a large inventory in today's economy. Contact our office for current availability.