Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a builder?
Choose someone who knows the local market, understands Kansas soil and weather conditions, and communicates clearly. At Deer Creek Custom Homes, we combine transparency, trusted subcontractors, and local expertise to make your build a seamless experience.
What is the first step in planning a custom home?
Start by defining your vision. Think through your goals, must-have features, and how you want your home to function day-to-day. The clearer your priorities, the easier it is to design a home that truly fits your lifestyle.
How do I create a realistic budget?
Your budget should include more than just construction costs. Be sure to factor in land, site prep, utility hookups, permits, landscaping, and furnishings—as well as a 5–10% contingency for unexpected expenses.
What should I consider when choosing a location?
Think about your lifestyle and daily needs. Do you want to be close to schools, work, or town? Would you rather live on acreage or in an established neighborhood? We help you find the right balance between location, privacy, and convenience.
How long does it take to design a custom home?
The design phase typically takes 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the size of the home and how quickly decisions are made. At Deer Creek Custom Homes, we work closely with you to create a design that fits your lifestyle, your land, and your budget—so you're set up for success before construction begins.
How long does the planning phase take?
Depending on how ready you are with decisions like layout and finishes, planning can take a few weeks to a few months. The more prepared you are upfront, the smoother the process will go once construction begins.
How do I finance a custom home build?
Add Most custom homes are financed with a construction-to-permanent loan. This covers the cost to build and then converts into a standard mortgage. You’ll need a set of plans, a budget, and a signed contract with your builder. At Deer Creek Custom Homes, we walk you through the process and can recommend local lenders who specialize in custom home construction throughout south central Kansas.
How long does a custom home build take?
On average, a custom home build takes 9 to 12 months—but that can vary depending on weather, permitting, material availability, and design complexity. Kansas weather plays a role, especially during the foundation and framing stages, so we always build with the seasons in mind.
What happens during the framing stage of a custom home build?
During framing, your home’s structure is built—from walls and floors to roof trusses and windows. Exterior sheathing, roofing, and siding are also added to protect the home from weather. At Deer Creek Custom Homes, we take extra precautions during this stage to account for Kansas wind and weather, ensuring everything is secure and built to last.
How long does it take to pour the foundation for a custom home?
Foundation work usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of foundation, soil conditions, and weather. In Kansas, rain and extreme temperatures can cause delays, but at Deer Creek Custom Homes, we plan around the forecast and monitor concrete curing carefully to make sure your foundation is strong, stable, and built to last.
When is the best time to start building in Kansas?
Weather plays a big role. Planning in winter or early spring positions your build to start during milder months—avoiding wet spring soil and winter freezes that can delay excavation or foundation work.
Any tips for avoiding surprises during construction?
Stay flexible, communicate often, and don’t max out your budget. Allowing some buffer in both time and cost ensures you can handle design changes or delays without stress.
How does lot size and shape affect my home design?
The dimensions and slope of your lot determine your home’s footprint and orientation. For example, a narrow lot might limit your layout options, while a sloped lot could require extra grading or allow for a walk-out basement.
How long does it take to get building permits for a custom home?
Most permits in south central Kansas area take 2 to 4 weeks to process, depending on location and time of year. At Deer Creek Custom Homes, we handle all the permitting for you, so you don’t have to deal with the paperwork or delays. We also plan around seasonal weather to keep your project moving.