Welcome To Our Blog

Custom Home Design and Build: Navigating the Custom Home Journey

Building a home from the ground up is an exciting and deeply personal experience. At Homes by Dickerson, we guide you through the entire custom home design and build journey—from the first moment of inspiration to the day we hand over the keys and beyond. Every step is rooted in collaboration, craftsmanship, and care as we help bring your vision to life.

Step 1: Dream Big

The process begins with your dreams, goals, and lifestyle. This is the time to explore our custom floorplans, browse the inspiration gallery, tour communities, and imagine your life in a Homes by Dickerson home. Whether you envision a custom modern farmhouse or a classic Southern retreat, we are here to help you define your dream.

Step 2: Choose Your Location

We build in thoughtfully selected communities across Raleigh, Pinehurst, Eastern NC and Charleston. Each neighborhood is chosen for its access to conveniences, lifestyle offerings, and natural beauty. Whether you crave walkability, a serene setting, or proximity to urban centers, you’ll find the perfect fit on our Find Your Home page.

Step 3: Design the Exterior

With Homes by Dickerson, your home’s exterior can begin in several ways:

  • Select from our existing award-winning floor plan portfolio
  • Modify a plan to suit your needs
  • Create a completely custom design from scratch with our in-house experts
    A refundable lot reservation allows you to secure your ideal home site while we finalize the design and pricing.

Step 4: Personalize Your Pricing and Specs

Once you’ve chosen your plan, we work closely with you to outline personalized specifications and review pricing. Our team helps you align features with your investment goals, ensuring you make the most of every dollar.

Step 5: Make It Official

You’ll review and sign a purchase agreement tailored to your selections. Our team will walk you through the paperwork and answer any remaining questions before moving forward.

Step 6: Review Architectural Plans

To ensure we’ve captured your vision, you’ll receive final architectural drawings to review and approve. This is your chance to fine-tune the details before construction begins.

Step 7: Choose Your Finishes

From cabinetry to countertops, lighting to flooring, your personal designer will guide you through our design center. Whether you follow current kitchen design trends or blaze your own trail, this stage transforms your house into a home that reflects you.

Step 8: Watch It Come to Life

Your home goes vertical. You’ll be invited to several onsite meetings with your Project Manager during construction milestones like framing, electrical, and interior trim. These visits offer a unique glimpse into the craftsmanship behind the walls, showcasing the quality that defines Homes by Dickerson.

Step 9: Closing Day

Our Closing Coordinator ensures a smooth and efficient settlement. Once all documents are signed and recorded, the keys to your new home are yours.

Step 10: Welcome Home

After closing, our Client Care Representative walks you through the details of living in your new home. From maintenance tips to warranty walk-throughs at three and ten months, we remain a trusted resource well after move-in.

The Dickerson Difference

As one of the top home builders in Raleigh NC, our commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and service sets us apart. Our certified green homes are built with energy efficiency and long-term value in mind, offering benefits for you and the environment.

We offer a variety of custom home styles, from spacious plans with a home office in the loft to open-concept layouts that accommodate growing families and changing lifestyles. Whether you're interested in building from scratch or need help deciding what’s possible, we recommend starting with the questions to ask custom home builders before beginning your journey.

Ready to Begin Your Custom Home Design and Build Journey?
The first step is simple. Reach out via our contact page to start a conversation with one of our experts. Your custom home journey starts with a dream—and Homes by Dickerson is here to make it real.

External Resource: Houzz– Custom Home Building 101