General Contractors vs. Custom Home Builders: All You Need to Know

Deciding to build a new home is a big decision. Whether you know exactly how you’re going to go about this process or you have absolutely no idea, this article is here to help you evaluate the general contractors vs. custom home builders. If you are looking for a custom home builder in the Blue Mountain area, L. Patten and Sons is an established team of experts that can help. Understanding the difference between general contractors and custom home builders is very important. Contact L. Patten and Sons today with your questions.  

 

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General Contractors vs. Custom Home Builders 

What is a General Contractor?

A general contractor, simply put is like a general manager. They recruit, hire, either have a team or contract one out, call the shots, and make sure the home you are building is built to specifications. 

A good general contractor facilitates team members showing up when they are needed and also that they have the permits necessary. The way this is typically orchestrated is that a general contractor will subcontract individuals qualified to do the work required.

A highly skilled general contractor will see the big picture and work to keep the team on schedule.

 

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What is a Custom Home Builder?

A custom home builder takes care of all of the details start to finish. Custom home builders help with budgeting, planning, designing, and executing the entire build. They are with you from start to finish which is something a lot of people are looking for. The home builder will manage every part of the build from start to finish. 

This can simplify the construction process, however it is usually a service that is an investment.  Additionally, there are some home builders who will focus on only one aspect of a job, always consider this when comparing home builders. L. Patten & Sons custom home builders will be with you start to finish from planning to moving in. 

 

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Which One Is Best?

In most cases, this is actually the wrong question to be asking. The reality is, because their roles, price points, and goals, are different, people who are having a home built will often consider all of these variables before choosing a what management team will work best for their build.

If you are feeling more adventurous, you could actually act as your own contractor, but keep in mind that you probably do not have the experience or connections that a real contractor will have. Many people attempt this to save money and end up spending more and hiring someone in the end anyways. Others choose to go with a "handyman" general contractor, who is good with small renovations or building a deck, but doesn't specialize in whole home builds.  Finding and hiring the right people for the right job in so many different focus areas can be near impossible. That’s why it’s best to hire a professional to arrange this. Whether a custom home builder or not, they will help coordinate all aspects of the build. 

One major piece of advice - if you decide to act as your own contractor, you will need to make sure your permits are all up to date, in order, and on time. If you have a contractor or custom home builder they will take care of this for you. 

 

L. Patten & Sons Home

L. Patten & Sons Home

Some Other Things to Consider 

If you are looking for a luxurious, custom home, consider speaking to a custom home builder, like L Patten & Sons who can manage everything you need. It all comes down to finding the service professional that will fit your needs. Do your homework, plan ahead, set a budget, and review your options. 

 

L. Patten & Sons Home

L. Patten & Sons Home

Trust L. Patten & Sons

If you are designing your home, have questions, or are ready to work with a custom builder, ensure you get the best service and experience with L. Patten & Sons. We deliver a specialized experience with a hands-on process. From initial discussions, to design, to final touches - you can count on us for open communication throughout the whole process, with only the finest quality work. We're so focused on your satisfaction that you can even expect a call back from us to ensure everything is in tip-top shape. We don't just build a big property, we focus on the small details that you'll appreciate for decades to come. Contact us today to set up your consultation.

"We found Jerry Patten to be honest, frugal, reliable, punctual, and extremely knowledgeable." - Jack and Sue

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