Tips before Building in Flagstaff

Keep costs in perspective; $10 a thousand more for brick you like better translates into only $100 more when 10,000 bricks (a typical amount) are involved.
The average house contains approximately 1,500 to 2,000 square feet; do you need more? Why? How much more?
Take care that glitz and gadgets (suggested by friends, the builder, or magazines) do not overwhelm good basic construction-- don't trade them for lesser construction. Bouncy floors (where joists are stretched to the maximum) are not remedied by a hot tub, flocked wall covering, skylights, or jazzy door hardware.
You pay for each and every square foot of space in your house, be it occupied, usable, or otherwise. If the cost is $50, $85, or $110 per square foot, "extra", unused, vacant and unnecessary area is provided at the very same cost.

Don't expect to control the number of nails used. Do expect a substantially built house, free of defects, and in accord with all applicable codes and regulations. Require proof of such compliance (many jurisdictions issue Certificates of Occupancy) at the closing of your mortgage. This indicates accord with the MINIMUM code and safety standards.
Realize that some things are virtually unchangeable; they should be done properly, first off. This includes a properly sized and constructed foundation system, a properly designed and installed structural system, etc. Changeable items such as finishes, coverings, etc., should not distract you from watching for and requiring good basic construction.
Watch for things that are not necessarily what you want and that you will not be able to change easily or cheaply. Question things that just don't look or seem right. Most of the time they are NOT right!
Seek some reliable outside, impartial advice -- other than your father (even if he is a builder!).

Be ready and prepared to resolve situations and problems by compromising. Be aware, however, of what you may be giving up in this process -- examine and understand both sides. IS the situation worth what you are losing?
The builder is fully capable of doing anything (or can find someone who can) you wish; BUT, this all will come with a price -- so be careful and wary of unique, inordinate, or far-out requests, new technology, and untested materials and equipment.
Understand that construction is an imperfect science. This combined with natural elements (site conditions, weather, wood members, human foibles) means that things could change, must be changed, or simply exceed capabilities.
Mistakes do happen and they will !. Absolute perfection or your idea of perfection may not (and more than likely, will not) be achieved. Drastic imperfections, however, can be corrected, and they should be. It is within your rights to require this. Keep in mind the home you are building. Track, Custom Ect...

No Your Costs

Dreaming of building a new Flagstaff home, but you are worried about the expense? If you have detailed building plans, your Flagstaff home builder can give you an estimate. But it pays to begin estimating costs before your plans are finalized. Estimate your building costs early and you can change or modify your plans to meet your new building budget.