Understanding the Custom Home Building Timeline: How Long It Really Takes and Why
Expert insight from your trusted custom home builder in Southwest Michigan
Building a custom home is an exciting and deeply personal journey—but one of the most common questions we hear at Mark Scott Homes is:
“How long does it actually take to build a custom home?”
While it would be nice to give a one-size-fits-all answer, the reality is that every home—and every homeowner—is different. From design complexity to permitting to weather, there are many moving parts. What we can tell you is this: understanding the timeline upfront helps create realistic expectations and a smoother experience from start to finish.
Here’s a detailed look at the phases of a custom home build and what influences the timeline.
🧭 Phase 1: Initial Consultation & Planning (1–4 Weeks)
Everything starts with a conversation. Whether you're building on Lake Michigan, in New Buffalo, or Granger, this phase is about:
Getting to know your goals, style, and must-haves
Reviewing your lot or helping you find one
Discussing timeline, process, and budget expectations
Determining if we’re the right fit for each other
By the end of this phase, you’ll have a clear understanding of what comes next.
🏗 Phase 2: Design & Pre-Construction (2–6 Months)
This is where vision meets detail. During the design phase, you’ll work closely with our team and your architect or designer to:
Finalize floor plans
Make key design decisions
Review structural elements
Begin the selections process
Submit for permits and approvals
Important note:
Permit timelines vary greatly depending on location and municipality—some coastal or lakefront properties in Southwest Michigan may take longer due to environmental or zoning regulations.
🚧 Phase 3: Site Prep & Foundation (1–2 Months)
Once permits are approved, the physical build begins:
Site clearing, grading, and utility prep
Excavation and foundation pour
Basement or crawlspace construction
Drainage and waterproofing
Weather can impact this phase, especially during the winter or rainy seasons.
🔨 Phase 4: Framing to Dry-In (1–2 Months)
This is when your home starts to take shape:
Framing the structure
Roofing, windows, and exterior doors installed
House “dried in” (protected from the elements)
This phase moves quickly, but accuracy is key. Our team ensures everything is squared, level, and built to last.
⚙️ Phase 5: Mechanical Rough-Ins & Insulation (1–2 Months)
Here’s where the behind-the-walls magic happens:
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems installed
Inspections completed
Insulation and air sealing done to energy standards
We also continue selections and finalize finishes during this time.
🧱 Phase 6: Interior & Exterior Finishes (3–5 Months)
This is the most exciting phase—and also the most detailed:
Drywall, flooring, tile, cabinetry, trim
Painting, lighting, plumbing fixtures
Exterior siding, decking, driveways, and landscape prep
Custom homes often include high-end finishes that require precision and time. Quality takes priority over speed.
🧹 Phase 7: Final Touches & Walkthrough (2–4 Weeks)
We’re almost there:
Final inspections
Punch list items completed
Cleaning and preparation for move-in
New homeowner orientation and walkthrough
You’ll learn how to operate systems, maintain key features, and ask any last questions.
⏳ So... How Long Does It Take?
From first conversation to move-in, expect your custom home to take 12–18 months.
Larger, more complex homes—especially lakefront properties—may take a bit longer.
The more prepared and decisive you are during design and selections, the smoother and faster the process can go. Our team works proactively to keep things moving, communicate clearly, and ensure your home is completed to our uncompromising standards.
💬 Final Thought: Build with Clarity, Not Surprises
When you work with a builder like Mark Scott Homes, you're not just getting craftsmanship—you’re getting a guided experience designed to take the stress out of custom home building.
Whether you're ready to break ground or just starting to explore, we’re here to walk you through the process with honesty, expertise, and care.
🏡 Ready to Start the Conversation?
Contact us today to learn more about our process, schedule availability, and how we can help bring your dream home to life in Southwest Michigan or Northern Indiana.