SERVICES

During a planning session, we focus on understanding your vision and preferences, utilizing tools like the Houzz app, and discussing our company's history and custom home-building process. We also emphasize the importance of establishing a clear budget and effective communication. Moving forward, we assist in site selection, considering various factors like location, pricing, and design guidelines of the chosen community or lot. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of considering home amenities, including square footage, layout, architectural style, interior and exterior features, specialty elements, and finishes, to align with the determined budget and preferences for your new home design.

In the Design Phase, we utilize a practical approach, establishing design and budget parameters upfront to align the home design with the owner's lifestyle and financial considerations. Costs for designing a custom home are influenced by the choice of working with an architect or draftsman, with the scope of work being a determining factor. Clients can collaborate directly with the chosen professional or communicate preferences through us, with the option to integrate design costs into the total contract price. The process involves creating conceptual drawings based on budget, site criteria, and amenity list, progressing through various stages of client review and modification. The result is a comprehensive set of preliminary plans encompassing site layout, foundation, floor plans, framing, roof, sections, elevations, and electrical details. Upon plan completion and review, the Bid Phase commences, acknowledging that the design phase duration depends on the pace of decision-making.

In the Bid Phase, which typically lasts 2-6 weeks depending on project complexity, we provide a lump-sum price covering all project costs, from excavation to final cleaning. Clients can opt for a cost-plus basis if desired. Specifications and allowances are determined based on amenities listed in earlier phases, with fixed pricing for key areas like framing and flexible allowances for items such as appliances and fixtures. The bid includes various fees and permits, ensuring comprehensive coverage for planning, building permits, and insurance. Upon bid phase completion, a detailed Construction Contract is provided, outlining project details, pricing, commencement, completion terms, payment structure, and specification lists for all project elements and finishes. We value transparency to ensure client peace of mind.

In the Financing Phase, exploring financing options and securing a loan is a critical early step, especially if budget considerations are linked to financing. Construction financing in custom home building typically involves a "construction-to-permanent loan," where the owner obtains a loan to acquire the building lot, build the home, and transition to permanent financing after completion. Cash buyers streamline this step and focus on the Draw Process, involving payment terms based on project completion percentages and periodic draw requests to cover construction expenses. The draw process is facilitated by Seaport Homes, with draws requested and paid based on project milestones during construction until the final draw amounts match the total contract price, potentially offset by allowance credits.

In the Permit Phase, the timeline for securing a building permit typically takes around 30 days. We manage the application process, submissions, communications, and fee payments. Permit applications are made to the relevant City Offices based on the project location, with rare changes usually notified to the client and addressed accordingly. Additionally, applications may be submitted to the community's Architectural Review Board for review, focusing on aspects like square footage, architectural style, height, elevations, and exterior materials in compliance with design guidelines. Further applications for exterior colors and landscaping occur later in the process, allowing for adjustments to meet community guidelines based on recommendations or requirements.

During the Construction Phase, the timeline for a custom home varies based on factors like project scope and square footage, with smaller homes taking about 4-6 months and larger, complex homes averaging up to 10 months. Before construction begins, a pre-construction consultation allows the client to review and approve final construction plans, modified during the bid process. Our team collaborates with trusted subcontractors and suppliers, ensuring a smooth and timely construction process while managing schedules and client selections for both interior and exterior features. The client has the opportunity to participate in detailed walk-throughs and on-site meetings, ensuring their vision aligns with the ongoing construction. The selection process involves making choices for various design elements and finishes, guided by our team to adhere to the budget and allowances. Changes or modifications can be made during construction through a structured Change Order process.

During the Closing phase, preparations for the final stages of construction are made, including a thorough Final Walk-Through with the client. The client receives a comprehensive closing packet, providing essential information for home maintenance and product guides. Following a successful final building inspection and issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy, the closing process ensues, with the final payment reflecting the contract price balance, offset by allowance credits if applicable. Seaport Homes also includes a one-year Limited Warranty. We are committed to quality work and prompt responses to warranty requests.