Get matched with top home builders in Wakefield, MI

How long it takes to build a custom home or rebuild a home after a disaster varies depending on many factors, but averages between seven and 14 months. Smaller homes or homes that don’t need a re-poured foundation may take less time to build than larger homes or homes without an existing foundation. Material availability, contractor schedules, and permit and inspection timelines can all affect how long your house takes to build.

Yes, you can finance new construction, though the process often requires a different type of loan than one for an existing property. There are several financing options available:

• Construction-to-Permanent Loan: This is a common option where a single loan covers the building costs and then converts into a traditional mortgage once construction is complete and you move in.

• Construction Loan (Stand-Alone): This type of loan provides funding only for the duration of the construction project. Once the house is built, you will need to pay the loan in full, typically by securing a separate, standard mortgage.

• Builder Financing: Some custom homebuilders offer their own financing options, which may only require a down payment to begin the building process.

• Bridge Loan: This can be a useful short-term loan to fund your new construction while you are in the process of selling your old home.

• Home Equity Options: If you are building a second home, you might be able to use a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a cash-out refinance on your current property.

It's also important to be aware that some lenders may have restrictions on financing for DIY house builds, so be sure to verify that you can secure financing before starting your project.

Above all, the downside to building a new house is a longer timeline. You need several months to finish the build, depending on the supply chain and labor availability in the meantime. Building a home compared to buying one is also more expensive, both in the building process and when it comes to mortgage rates and property taxes.

A custom home is one that you design from the ground up, allowing you to customize everything from the square footage to the interior layout to all of the materials used. A spec home is one that a builder has designed and gotten approvals for. Spec homes may give you some limited options for the layout and materials, but most of the build is pre-set. Custom homes cost more and take longer to build.