A PROVEN Custom
Home Build Process.
A PROVEN Custom Home Build Process.
Find out what you can expect on the journey to building your dream home with our team of skilled craftsmen.
Find out what you can expect on the journey to building your dream home with our team of skilled craftsmen.
Custom Homes
Our Construction Process
Building the custom home of your dreams is a life-changing experience. Whether you are just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step, G. Terbrock Luxury Homes is here for you. As a third-generation homebuilder in St. Louis, Greg and his team have more than 30 years of experience and a genuine passion for custom home building. We firmly believe in the process we have developed, because it results in an enjoyable experience: getting exactly what you want, for the budget and timeline you expect.
Our custom home construction timeline begins with a face-to-face conversation. We prioritize our client relationships and value trust and mutual respect. Once we have established a project team, all your wants and needs will come to life on paper. Then, it’s smooth sailing as we do what we do best and build your home from the ground up. At the end of this journey, your expectations will be exceeded — and your perfect home will come to life with G. Terbrock.
CUSTOM HOME BUILD STEPS
Step 1. Dream
It all starts with a vision for your home and your future. We work closely with our clients and the project architect to put all your ideas onto paper, for the perfect custom home that is uniquely yours.
Step 2. Plan
From pre-construction design to bidding and permitting, our team works to keep each project on time and on budget. We know from experience that the key to our success is to plan and prepare.
Step 3. Build
The most exciting part of the entire process is when our skilled teams begin to build the dream home you’ve been waiting for. We provide regular updates to keep you in the loop every step of the way.
CUSTOM HOME BUILDING
PROCESS & TIMELINE: FAQS
What are the steps in your custom home building process? What happens during each step?
Step #1: Free Consultation
First up, tell us about your project! We prefer to have a face-to-face meeting, if possible, but are happy to have a Discovery Call via Zoom for prospective clients who live out of town. This session is where we begin to build trust, respect and an understanding of your wants and needs. This consultation is free and there is no obligation to move forward with G. Terbrock as your home builder — but we always put our best foot forward and look for opportunities where we are a good fit to work together. We can’t wait to meet you!
Step #2: Select an Architect
Your custom home build is the opportunity to work with the architect that YOU choose. Unlike other St. Louis custom home builders, G. Terbrock gives our clients the freedom to pick and choose their own architect. If you need referrals, we are always happy to give them. Our only request is to be a part of the interviewing process with the architect(s) you meet with, if possible. This is particularly helpful for architects who are located out of town or out of state.
Step #3: Pre-Construction Design
We strongly encourage anyone who is beginning a custom home build to connect the project architect to your builder as soon as possible. The earlier, the better! Your architect’s main focus is on drawing up exactly what you ask for. Your builder is the one who has knowledge of pricing and market rates that will ultimately help your architect create a plan for a home that is within your budget.
If you choose not to move forward with the G. Terbrock team after this step, your only obligation is to pay for consultation time spent on the plans for your future home.
Step #4: Bidding & Pricing
Once the blueprints and plans for your home are final, we begin the process of soliciting bids for every line item category of materials. Our team sifts through hundreds of proposals from our expansive network, to get the best selections and most competitive pricing for your luxury home build.
Step #5: Sign Contracts
Next up is signing a contract for all of your project materials. G. Terbrock Luxury Homes offers both Cost-Plus and Fixed Fee Contracts. A Cost-Plus Contract is written for the market rate of labor and materials, plus the builder’s margin. Some buyers prefer a Cost-Plus Contract because they allow work to move forward before material selections are finalized. A Fixed Fee Contract is written when the project’s total cost can be predetermined, and can give clients a better idea of what to expect for their “all-in” expenses.
Step #6: Submit Permits
Getting an approved permit is the last important step before construction begins. Every municipality has its own standards and requirements — which can also include trustees, HOAs, zoning approvals and other interested parties. If you are building a custom home in St. Louis, having a local home builder for this step is critically important! Our team has experience building throughout the greater St. Louis area to help with permitting and approvals.
Step #7: Construction Begins
This is where the real magic happens! While your home is under construction, G. Terbrock Luxury Homes will provide weekly updates and conduct weekly site visits with a Project Manager. We believe it is important to have regular, consistent communication, and our clients always agree.
How long does it take to build a luxury house?
There are many factors that will affect how quickly your home can be built — from the location of the lot and the specifications of the home you are building, to how quickly permits can be approved, and the list goes on. While a spec home builder who follows a standardized process may be able to offer a general idea of a construction timeline, a custom home build timeline is always unique. As your project advances through the construction process, the G. Terbrock Luxury Homes team will provide regular updates on our projected completion date.
How much does it cost to build a custom home?
Market prices are always changing, and the housing market, in particular, has experienced significant inflation since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. We offer $400 to $600 per square foot as a baseline estimate, but please know the actual project costs can vary greatly depending on material selections and other factors specific to your custom home.
Does G. Terbrock Luxury Homes have inventory lots?
No, we do not have inventory lots — but we are always happy to provide consultation on lot selection to help you find the perfect site for your perfect future home. Another added bonus of engaging your home builder before you have a lot? We can often help you negotiate!
Is building a custom home worth it?
We’re not unbiased here, but, YES! There’s absolutely nothing that compares to designing and building a home based on YOUR lifestyle and the architectural styles you love. When you buy an existing home, you take on the condition and personalizations of its previous owner(s). Building a spec home offers some customization, but only within the builder’s portfolio. Only a custom build allows you to put your personal touch on every single corner of the house. Build a place you will love to call home and be proud to live in for many years to come!