What is included in the specifications for your Custom Home?

Everything!

While I understand that saying “everything” isn’t exactly helpful, I say it to emphasize how important it is to know what’s in your specifications. As an experienced homebuilder on the NC coast, we build based on exactly what’s listed, and your contract price is calculated accordingly!

It’s understandable if some of the jargon is unfamiliar—asking for explanations is always encouraged. We have patience when explaining things to make sure you understand the details of your custom home. There are also things not included in your specs—such as the details of your finishes. More on that a little later.

Your specifications will outline details such as (this is not an exhaustive list):

• What’s included in your lot prep
• How high your home’s foundation will be (especially important for coastal homes!)
• Whether you’ll have a crawlspace, slab, or pilings
• The spacing of your framing studs
• Ceiling height
• Roofing, siding, fascia, and soffit materials
• Porch and railing materials
• Water, sewer, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical details
• Interior and exterior door brands, including transoms and sidelights
• Window brand and type (single or double-hung)
• Trim type and size
• Number of paint colors included
• Number of tile showers
• Flooring, countertop, and cabinet types
• Closet shelf materials and quantity
• Whether or not you have an elevator (a common request for custom homes on the North Carolina coast!)
• And many other details

The Takeaway: If a detail isn’t listed, it’s not included in the contract price of your home!

Some commonly missed details include:

• Tile showers in all bathrooms instead of just the master bath
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Wooden closet shelves in the pantry
• Crown molding
• Extra electrical wiring

Avoid making assumptions about what’s included! Since this is part of your signed contract, it’s crucial to review it carefully and ensure accuracy before building your dream house at the beach or anywhere on the NC coast.

What’s Not in Your Specs?

Your specifications do not include the details of your finishes. These are customized based on allowances that give you flexibility in your selections. Allowanced items include:

• Plumbing
• Lighting
• Flooring
• Tile showers and enclosures
• Cabinets
• Countertops
• Door hardware
• Mirrors
• Bath accessories
• Closet shelving
• Landscaping
• Concrete for your driveway and walkways

Why Work with Our Preferred Vendors?

You’ll receive a list of our preferred vendors, who are experts in their fields and will assist you in making selections. They are preferred because they handle everything from ordering and storing materials to scheduling, delivery, installation, and replacements if needed. They even bill you for any overages and us for the allowanced portion, ensuring a seamless process.

Customization & Organization

We use a construction management software that helps organize everything from your shingle color to the fireplace wall design in your custom home. Through this software, you can:

• Select door and window styles
• List paint colors
• Upload inspiration photos for custom-built features like shiplap walls or range hoods
• Access important documents such as your contract, house plans, specifications, allowances, permits, and vendor contact information
• Some files (like your contract) are private to you, while others (like lighting plans) can be accessed by vendors to ensure everything matches your selections.

Keeping the Home Building Project on Track

A live schedule is also available so you can see what’s been completed and what’s coming up next.
When used to its fullest potential, this software is a powerful tool that reduces mistakes—and the unexpected costs that come with them.

What’s Next?
Building a custom home on the NC coast should be an exciting and rewarding experience, and having the right homebuilder makes all the difference. Our team is here to guide you through the process with patience and expertise, ensuring everything is clear and tailored to your vision.
If you have any questions about your house plans, allowances, or what’s included in your contract, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether you’re dreaming of a beach home in North Carolina or a forever home inland, we’re here to help.
Let’s build something incredible together—contact us today!