How Long Does It Take to Build a House? The Common Timeline

Did you know that 13% of Americans move to a new home every 5 to 10 years?

If you have decided to join the ranks of home movers, you need to know how much time it will take to build a house.

Once you have decided who will be building your new home and have started the drawing process, you need to know you will be able to be part of the process.

So, how long does it take to build a house? Read on to learn about the average timeline so you know when you may expect your dream home.

How Long Does it Take to Build a House

It takes longer to build a house than most people realize. The process begins with clearing the land and ends with a final inspection.

In between, there are dozens of steps and the first thing to keep in mind is to hire a land surveyor. Right after that, proceed in obtaining permits, pouring the foundation, framing the house, and installing the plumbing and wiring.

Most builders allow for some flexibility in the schedule, but delays can add to the cost of the project.

The building process is also affected by the experience of the builder and the workers.  Generally, it takes longer to build custom homes than it does to build a production home. However, both timelines can vary depending on the specific project.

The Common Timeline For Building a House

It typically takes anywhere from four months to a year. The timeline can be broken down into a few different stages.

The first stage is acquiring land, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Next is the design phase, which takes about two months. The next stage is the permits and financing stage, which takes about a month.

And finally, the construction phase which takes four to six months.

Common Delays When Building a House

While the timeline for building a house can vary, there are some common delays that home builders should be aware of.

One of the most common delays is weather-related, as foundation work and exterior finishing are both susceptible to rain and other adverse weather conditions.

Another common delay is due to the procurement of materials, as construction projects often require a large quantity of lumber, concrete, and other specialized materials.

Construction projects can also be delayed due to unexpected issues, such as the discovery of underground utilities or the need to re-route traffic.

Tips to Speed Up the House Building Process

There are ways to speed up the process by being an active and involved homeowner. Tips to speed up the process include: working with a highly experienced and reputable builder.

Carefully choosing and ordering all materials in advance. Making sure all permits and inspections are in order before construction begins. Staying involved throughout the entire process and being available to make decisions in a timely manner.

Start Building a House Now

How long does it take to build a house? It really depends on the size and complexity of the project. However, generally speaking, it takes around four to six months to construct a basic home.

If you’re thinking of building a house, be sure to start planning early and give yourself plenty of time to get everything done.

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