Frequently Asked Questions
Cost to Build
The cost to build a custom home varies significantly. The cost to per sq/ft to build a kitchen or a master bathroom will be much higher per sq/ft than a bedroom or the garage as there is much more detail that goes into them. The area you decide to build in may have square foot or material requirements on the exterior in order to keep a specific look throughout the neighborhood. With your budget in mind, we can work with the architect to value engineer any aspects of your home to ensure we look out for your wallet. To answer the question; it all depends on location, square footage, finishes, amenities and building materials!
What areas do you serve?
We love building homes for clients and are willing to work anywhere across the DFW metroplex!
How long does the build take?
This also varies significantly and there are a few factors that will go into build time, including how decisive clients are. When a client knows what they want, this shortens the design process and can apply for a permit sooner. Every custom home has change orders and the less change orders there are, the faster we can progress through the planned home construction. Weather can add weeks (hopefully not) to the build time, especially when it rains and we are working on the exterior. The largest contributors to build time will be location of the build (some municipalities have a longer permitting process), size of the home and the type of finishes going into the home (i.e. siding will take less time than masonry, if there are complex tile designs, the extent of landscaping and more). The construction should take 8-14 months depending on the size and complexity of the home.
Finding a lot
I have relationships with many developers across the metroplex who can help you find your lot. If you already have one, then that is even better!
Is Design and Build right for me?
It depends. If you already have stamped architectural and engineered plans, we can use those. The issue that could come with that is the plans will be difficult to value engineer (find ways to save costs for you) as the plans are set in stone. You can always change the plans but once they are stamped, it will cost more to edit them. My suggestion would be to come with a blank slate and use Fenview Homes as your design and build partner. We have great connections with architects and we will work with you to design the home you have in mind without emptying your pockets. This will allow you to design the home exactly how you want in the most streamlined way as possible.
Why choose Fenview?
I have been building homes in the DFW metroplex since I was 24. I will never lie to you and will always be transparent. I am a frugal man, so I will be frugal with your budget. I decided to start my own company to not only provide for my family, but because building clients their dream home is something I love to do every day. You'll be hard pressed to find someone as responsive, honest and communicative as me. Integrity is at the center of my life and will be at the center of your home build. I left the production home building world because I wanted to focus on providing clients with incredible quality. For what you are paying to have your home built, you should get incredible quality and service.
Do you have references?
Absolutely! I am happy to provide references to past and present clients along with trades I use. I am transparent and will ask them to be transparent with you. I am happy to provide these reference as we get started in the build process.
Do you have a certain style?
No. Many custom builders will have a style as they work with specific architects or build specs that follow their specific design type. I consider myself to be a true custom home builder and will build anything you want built. Uniqueness is exciting to me! We will start with an idea, sketch it out and bring it to an architect.
Change Orders
Change orders are of course allowed. Everyone changes their mind about something when building a custom home. Just to be transparent, these can and most often will impact budget and build time.
Warranties
Many aspects of your home will have manufacture warranties. We will help you register your equipment with the manufacturer to ensure the coverage of your equipment. For the mechanicals (electrical, plumbing, low voltage and HVAC) we provide a two-year warranty. For the structural (roof decking, framing, foundation) we provide a ten-year warranty. We also will warranty the cosmetic of your home for one-year (drywall cracking, paint peeling, floors shifting, caulking and more).
Which Builder is Right for me?
There are certain non-negotiables such as costs, insurance, contracts, financial responsibility, communication, expertise, respect and trust. Ultimately, you will decide based off your gut-feeling. Who will you enjoy working with over the duration of your build? Do you want someone who will be honest with you, communicate clearly and transparently in a timely matter, look out for your dollar, have a constant, consistent sense of urgency during construction, own up to mistakes, honor their word and genuinely care about you, your family and your home? If you answered yes to these, then you're in the right place.
What if I am unsure about next steps?
That is completely normal. It is a quite an undertaking to build a custom home and getting started can be overwhelming. I would recommend we meet in-person and have a conversation. No obligations, just an opportunity to meet each other talk about your plans and see if there is any way I can help. If the project is not right for me, I will happily refer you to someone who I think could help you. Call, text or email me and we can set up a time to meet!