Anyone have experience building a home?

[saint]

We are exploring the possibility of building a home. probably ~4500sf or so to house our growing family. I've always heard the process is a nightmare. Honestly my biggest concern is I've heard that there will be overages left and right and the out pocket expenses can get out of control.

Anyone go through the process? Advice/feedback? Things you wished you knew going in?

 

[The Boys]

Yes, in 1990. Sold it 6 years ago when we divorced. I'd say you should probably go shopping for a builder. I wonder as I look back, is it better to buy an existing house and remodel it or is it smarter to build from the ground up??? Knowing what I know I think I'd do the redue, but that's me.

 

[marine]

I built where I am now - but I used a big builder. They were putting up the whole subdivision at the time so it's probably quite different than doing a single home with a smaller sized contractor.

I've had some friends do it on their own before though. Best advice - hire someone competent to run the show, and set the tone early that you can "be a dick".
I.e, if they miss milestones or deadlines, it better be because they are lying on their deathbed. You give them an inch early on and start believing the excuses and they will keep on doing it.