Resources
The Custom Home Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know before breaking ground. From budgeting and lot selection to construction phases and move-in. Written by the team that builds them.
Understand the Full Cost
Budgeting for a custom home goes beyond construction. Land, permits, materials, labor, closing costs (typically 2–5% of purchase price), homeowner's insurance, and property taxes all need to be planned for upfront. Surprises come from what was left out of the budget, not from construction itself.
Choose the Right Location
Lot selection shapes everything that comes after: cost, design options, timeline, and long-term value. Evaluate topography, soil conditions, school quality, proximity to amenities, and how the location affects resale. A great lot makes a great home easier to build.
Know What You're Getting Into With Permits
Building permits for electrical, plumbing, septic, and structural work are required and take time. Sometimes weeks, sometimes months depending on the municipality. Budget for it in your timeline. We handle the permit process so you do not have to navigate it alone.
Custom Home vs. Production Home
A production home is designed and built on spec: fast, repeatable, and predictable. A custom home is designed around you: your lot, your lifestyle, your preferences. Bijou Builds only builds custom. If you want it done right for you, that is the path.
What Happens During Construction
From lot prep and site grading to framing, mechanical rough-in, insulation, drywall, and finish work, there are dozens of sequential phases in a custom build. We walk every client through what is happening and when. Typical build time in Austin: 9 to 12 months.
Final Walkthrough and Move-In
Before we hand over the keys, we do a thorough walkthrough together, checking every system, every finish, every detail against what was specified. Our goal is zero punch list items at handoff. That is the standard we hold ourselves to.
Ready to start your build?
Every project starts with a free consultation. No pressure — just an honest conversation about what you want to build and what it takes to get there.
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