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Robin Brazenall

FAQ Guide For Your Custom Home Build.




Building a custom home is a major investment, and we know you have questions. At Münter Design & Build, we believe in transparency and collaboration to ensure your custom dream home aligns with your vision and budget.


 

How much will my custom home cost?


The cost of a custom home in the East Kootenay Rocky Mountains depends on several factors, including the size, design complexity, features, and lot conditions. In our area, smaller, average spec homes (~1,500 ft²) typically start at around $650,000, while mid-to-high-end homes (~2,000 to 2,500 ft²) generally range from $900,000 to $1,300,000.


These are general market prices for custom homes in the region, and the final cost will depend on your specific requirements and project details. The best way to understand the cost of your custom home is to have a conversation with us. We can provide a budget range based on your desired features, finishes, and energy efficiency goals, ensuring your project aligns with your vision and financial goals.


What is your square foot price?


Square-foot pricing can be misleading because there’s no standard way to calculate it. Different builders, realtors, and designers may include or exclude areas like basements, decks, lofts, and garages in their calculations. Additionally, some builders apply different square-foot rates for these areas, making it difficult to compare costs directly.

The best approach is to discuss your project with us. We’ll provide a budget range based on the overall scope, features, and finishes to ensure it aligns with your vision and financial goals.


Can you help determine if a lot is a good fit for building?


Yes, we offer consultation services to help assess whether a lot is suitable for your custom home. Factors like lot slope, soil conditions, and zoning regulations need to be considered before purchasing land. We’ll guide you through this process to ensure the lot aligns with your vision and budget.



How long does the design and planning phase take?


The design process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of your home and how quickly decisions are made. This phase includes consultations, drafting plans, revisions, and finalizing the design to your satisfaction.


How much does the design and planning phase cost?


The design and planning phase usually costs between 2-3% of the overall construction budget. This includes architectural design, interior design, site planning, cost analysis, and pre-construction work. After our initial design meeting, we’ll present a detailed proposal for this phase of the project.


Do you build third-party architectural plans?


Yes, we can work with designs from other architects or designers. We’ll review your plans and provide a rough estimate. For a more detailed and accurate estimate, we offer a comprehensive cost analysis that includes material takeoffs, finishing specifications, and outreach to vendors and subcontractors. A fee is charged for this service based on the size and complexity of the project, which we’ll discuss with you upfront.



What are my energy efficiency options?


We offer a range of energy efficiency options, from minimum code standards to high-performance homes, including net-zero and passive house designs.


Energy Efficiency Features We Offer:


  • Room-by-Room Heating/Cooling HVAC Design: Ensures comfort and efficiency throughout your home.


  • Passive House Design: Focuses on occupant comfort and optimal energy performance.


  • Blower Door Testing: Verifies airtightness at both mid-construction and final stages.


  • Third-Party Energy Modelling: Ensures your home meets energy efficiency targets. Energy-efficient homes may have higher upfront costs but result in significant long-term savings on energy bills.


How long does it take to build a custom home?


The construction phase generally takes 8 to 18 months, depending on the size, complexity of the design, weather, and availability of materials. We’ll provide you with a detailed construction schedule so you’ll know what to expect at each stage.


How do I track the progress of my home?


We maintain clear communication throughout the build process. You can expect regular updates, typically weekly, with progress reports and photos. You’ll also have access to our construction management software, which includes a client portal for tracking your project’s progress.


What is the warranty on my custom home?


Your home will be covered by the 2-5-10 year new home warranty as required by BC law.

This includes:

  • 2 years on labour and materials.

  • 5 years on the building envelope.

  • 10 years on the structure.


 

At Münter Design & Build, we’re committed to guiding you through the custom home building process, providing transparency, expertise, and flexibility to meet your goals. Contact us today to start the conversation and explore what’s possible for your dream home.


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