General Information

How do I start the process of building a custom home?

Most people begin by meeting with a builder to discuss goals, budget, timeline, and the type of home they want. From there, you'll assemble a design team and start planning your home’s layout and style.

What’s the difference between a custom home and a semi-custom or spec home?

A custom home starts with a blank slate. It’s 100% your layout, your finishes, and your priorities. Semi-custom homes offer some personalization but largely follow preset plans. Spec homes are designed by developers without a specific buyer in mind. With a custom build, every detail is tailored with intention, and you have full control over design, materials, and functionality.

Do I need land before I contact a custom home builder?

Not at all. Many clients reach out before they’ve purchased a lot. We can help evaluate potential properties, identify site challenges, and give you a sense of how the land may affect design, engineering, and overall costs. If you already own a lot, we’ll review it together to ensure it’s suitable for your vision.

How much does it cost to build a custom home in the Scottsdale area?

Custom home costs in Scottsdale vary widely depending on design, finishes, and the complexity of the build. Luxury custom homes in our market typically start around $500 per square foot, with many high-end projects reaching $600–$800+ per square foot due to advanced engineering, premium materials, and custom craftsmanship. We work closely with your architect and designer to create a clear, realistic budget early on, so you understand exactly how your decisions impact cost.

How long does it take to build a custom home from start to finish?

A luxury custom home in Scottsdale typically takes 18–36 months, including design, permitting, and construction. The timeline depends on the size of the home, engineering requirements, level of customization, and how quickly selections are made. We keep you updated weekly so you always know what’s happening next.

Our Process

What does the custom home-building process actually look like?

We guide you through a structured, collaborative process, starting with an initial conversation about your goals and budget. From there, we help assemble your design team, support you through planning and selections, handle estimating and permitting, and then manage every aspect of construction. The process is designed to keep you informed, prepared, and excited, not overwhelmed.

How closely do you work with architects and interior designers?

Very closely. We don’t have in-house architects or designers, so we collaborate with the design professionals of your choice. This gives you the freedom to choose the right creative partners while we ensure the entire team stays aligned on budget, design intent, logistics, and build feasibility.

Will I be overwhelmed with decisions throughout the project?

Not at all. Our role is to guide you through each step at the right time. We support your designer by providing timelines, site information, and technical details so selections stay organized and manageable. You’ll always know what needs to be decided, when, and why it matters.

What happens right before move-in?

We conduct an in-depth “Team Walk” where multiple team members review the home from top to bottom. This ensures everything is polished, functioning, and ready for you. The goal is a smooth, enjoyable handoff, so you walk into a home that feels complete and truly yours.

Services & Customization

How customizable is a luxury custom home?

Completely. From the floor plan to the finishes, everything is tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you want a glass-walled great room, a wellness suite, a rooftop deck, or a resort-grade backyard, we help bring those ideas to life. No two homes we build are ever the same.

Can you build on hillside or uniquely challenging lots?

Yes! We have extensive experience building on slopes, view lots, and properties that require specialized engineering. These projects often create some of the most stunning results, and we’re comfortable managing the extra planning that comes with them.

Can I choose my own architect, designer, and engineers?

Absolutely. You're welcome to bring professionals you already love. If you don’t have a team in place, we curate recommendations based on your style and project goals.

Can you incorporate high-end or specialty materials?

Definitely. We routinely work with custom steel fabrication, natural stone, oversized glass systems, luxury millwork, and advanced mechanical systems. If you can dream it — and it's structurally feasible — we can build it.

Budget, Pricing & Financing

How do I know if my budget aligns with my vision?

During early planning, we walk you through realistic budget ranges based on your goals, desired square footage, and the level of finishes you’re considering. We give you honest feedback so your design and budget stay aligned as the project progresses.

What causes custom home budgets to increase?

The most common factors are design changes, material upgrades, complex engineering, and site challenges. We communicate clearly about cost implications at every stage, so you’re never surprised.

Do you assist with construction financing?

Yes! While we don’t provide financing ourselves, we work hand-in-hand with your lender and can connect you with lenders who specialize in construction loans.

Are there hidden costs I should expect?

Our goal is transparency. With early design-phase involvement, detailed estimating, and weekly communication, we work hard to minimize unexpected expenses.

Timeline & Project Management

What can slow down a custom home build?

Permitting delays, specialty material lead times, engineering revisions, and last-minute design changes are the most common causes. We help you reduce delays by planning early, making selections at the right time, and identifying challenges before construction begins.

How often will I get progress updates?

You’ll receive weekly updates outlining what’s been completed, what’s next, and any decisions or details that need your attention. We’re committed to clear communication from start to finish.

Who manages the jobsite day-to-day?

Our on-site project managers and field superintendents coordinate trades, oversee quality, maintain schedules, and ensure the home is built to our standards.

Can I visit my home during construction?

Yes, clients are welcome to visit the site. We’ll coordinate safe and productive walk-throughs at appropriate stages.