Getting Started
Building a custom home starts with a solid plan. Whether you want to personalize one of our existing floor plans or start from scratch, we’ll work with you to bring your vision to life. It is recommended that potential buyers obtain a pre-approval letter from a mortgage lender so you know how much home you can afford ahead of time. We typically build custom homes starting at $325,000 and up.
If you need assistance in securing a building lot, Brothers Company Builders Group can help. New home lots — including walk-out and daylight — are currently available in many desirable neighborhoods in Ankeny, Altoona, Clive, Grimes, Indianola, Johnston, Norwalk, Urbandale, Waukee, West Des Moines, and other Des Moines area communities. Contact us for a current listing of available lots.
Moving Forward
Once the building lot and floor plan are selected, Brothers Company provides the client with a comprehensive list of plans and specs that outlines all of the pertinent items to be included in the home. At this stage, a formal purchase agreement is drawn up for both parties to approve. Our real estate professionals have relationships with several highly regarded local mortgage brokers and banks to assist you with construction loans and mortgage products.
Breaking Ground
With a signed purchase agreement, your new home is on the fast track to completion. Brothers Company will obtain the necessary building permits and begin site preparations as quickly as possible. Excavation and pouring of the foundation will be the first signs that your new home is taking shape. As the future owner of the home, you’ll have access to the site during virtually every phase of construction. We encourage clients to visit often to view progress and ask questions.
Raising the Roof
With the foundation in place, framing begins. Unlike other builders, Brothers Company uses only 2x6 construction for the exterior walls and superior insulation to ensure Energy Star efficiency and a low HERS Index Score. After the structure is framed, our expert electrical, plumbing, and HVAC subcontractors will complete rough-ins. During this stage, you’ll also work directly with our supplier partners to select cabinetry, flooring, appliances, paint colors, stone, lighting, countertops, and other accessories within pre-arranged allowances. If you decide to upgrade items, you can do so with no added markup.
Finishing Touches
After framing and rough-ins are completed, you’ll have the opportunity to do a pre-drywall walk-through to ensure all electrical work, walls, and closets are properly located. Upon approval, installation of drywall will be completed and finish work will commence. This includes installing cabinets, flooring, painting, light fixtures, bath fixtures, doors, trim, and other features. A closing date will be set and a pre-close walk-through will be scheduled to address any final adjustments that may be needed.
Welcome Home
Closing day represents the end of the construction journey and the start of many happy memories in your new home. For added peace of mind, every Brothers Company custom home includes a one-year limited builders warranty. During the warranty period, Brothers Company will respond to any issues that may arise. Other items in your new home are covered with normal manufacturers’ warranties.
How Long Will It Take?
The time it takes to build a custom home in the Des Moines area is highly dependent on a number of factors including weather conditions, client involvement, availability of labor and materials, and other factors. Brothers Company never provides a date of completion until certain levels of the process are completed. This ensures you have adequate time to prepare for your move and it ensures we have enough time to do the job right. The result is a better built home.