BUILD YOUR OWN HOME IN NWA
I WANT TO BUILD MY OWN HOME
BuildNWA.com was created to help everyone have a great real estate experience, which includes those who would rather DIY.
So you want to be your own contractor...
GREAT!
In the state of Arkansas, you can build a residential home for personal use without a contractor license. You will be fully responsible for all processes, including permits, inspections and job site liability.
Now, In most cases, it is recommended to get a licensed general contractor and licensed Sub-Contractors. However, if you are willing and able, building your own home could save some money. But for most who go this route, it is more about the accomplishment than the potential to save money.
Buildnwa.com offers two
DIY Assisted Packages for those that want to build a house themselves but need help with the process.
HOw can buildnwa.com help?
$1,750
DIY 1.0 - THE BASICS
This package includes guidance to DIY'ers by providing you with referrals for contractors that we trust, consultation calls, and more. From banking to the finished yard, BuildNWA.com will be there to help.
3 referrals for each general area of construction
1 budget "guesstimate" to give you a rough idea of the costs to build your home. This is also helpful for your banking experience.
1 consultation call to learn about your project
1 consultation call to get you started
Additional consultations available at a discounted rate compared to our street pricing
DIY 2.0 - THE ASSIST
$5,000
This package is for those who want an experienced consultant for every step of the way in the DIY home building process.
Everything in the Basic Package, plus:
23 additional consultation calls
Assistance with permitting
4 jobsite visits (in Northwest Arkansas)
Additional consultations available at a heavily discounted rate compared to our street pricing
Now that the sales pitch is over, let's cut to the chase.
THE STEPS TO BUILDING YOUR OWN HOME
BUDGETING
SHOW ME THE MONEY
Money is the absolute number one concern. No matter what anyone says, money should and will dictate your new home.
Know how much you can borrow or spend and stick to the budget. Start with knowing if you can borrow and how much. See our banking page for more information on loan types.
No matter how professional your budgeting process, plan +/- 5% error rate and have the funds to cover those unexpected costs.
LAND
FIND YOUR DREAM LOCATION
You'll need a spot to build on. Plan on purchasing the land with a construction loan or cash.
If you are building on family-owned or gifted land, make sure that you deed off the portion you are given and place it in your name. Make sure the family understands that it is in everyone's best interest if the parcels are separated. This protects everyone involved.
HOUSE PLAN
TURN YOUR DREAM HOME INTO A BLUEPRINT
There are two simple and affordable ways to find house plans and customize them.
Option 1 is to purchase a house plan from the internet. With about 100 different websites, you should be able to find a house plan online. Most are not customizable, but they will get you headed in the right direction.
Option 2 is to hire a local Draftsman to design your custom plan. These are not architects but can provide full residential drawings you will need for the permitting and framing stages. BuildNWA.com can suggest a few to get you started.
NOTE: If you are using a Certified Architect, BuildNWA.com HIGHLY encourages that you hire or consult with a General Contractor.
WHAT COMES AFTER
TIME TO GET TO WORK
Once you have the Where, the What, and the How Much, you are ready to jump into the HOW process - permits, surveys, pinning, foundation, framing, and so on.
Make good use of the internet, family and friends, and the municipality for information and processes. Keep it simple, take it slow, and don't be afraid to reach out to sub-contractors on items you can't do yourself. It's going to be great!
HERE'S A SHORT, COMPREHENSIVE LIST
Research and Budget
Evaluate your lifestyle needs, get a mortgage estimate, and set a realistic budget for the entire project.
Find Land
Determine if you already own a suitable plot or need to purchase one. Check local zoning regulations to ensure it's buildable and consider factors like utilities and access.
Choose a Builder (or DIY)
If you're not building yourself, find a reputable builder or architect to collaborate with. If you choose to DIY, be prepared to learn the construction process and manage tradespeople.
Design Your Home
Work with an architect, draftsman, or general contractor to create plans that meet your needs and preferences, ensuring they comply with local building codes.
Obtain Permits
Secure necessary building permits and approvals from local authorities.
Prepare the Site
Clear the lot, level the ground, and potentially install utilities
Construction
The actual building process starts with the foundation, followed by framing, plumbing, electrical work, and interior finishing.
Final Inspection and Move-In
Once completed, ensure all inspections pass and move into your new home. In most cases you will need a Certificate of Occupancy from the municipality to move in.
Things you may experience when DIY:
- may not get best material pricing
- may have to pay suppliers and subcontractors cash in advance
- may have to be your own pick up and delivery for materials
- inexperience could lead to extra cost or duplication