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.