FAQ

How much do custom built homes cost?

It is difficult to price custom homes because they are custom. Each one is different. Typically, costs range between $350 and $500 per square foot depending on what you want.

How long does it take to build a custom home?

Relatively simple designs which are straightforward can usually be built in about six months. More complex homes might take up to a year or more to complete. Of course, it is possible there may be delays in the building process caused by weather, material or labor shortages or other unanticipated issues. By working together, we can eliminate many delays.

How can I keep track of progress if I am unable to visit the construction site?

Watch this website. Your home will be listed on the Projects page. We will post photos of your new home on a very frequent basis. You will be able to see with your own eyes what is going on. You don’t have to trust infrequent reports.

How can I make sure my home is built quickly?

During the building process, we have to know what you want. This includes things the plans do not show us such as:

  • Paint colors and textures,
  • Appliances,
  • Roof colors,
  • other items.

We will provide you with a checklist when we sign a contract to build your home. It will list exactly what we need from you and when we need it. Be assured we will work with you at every step to insure you have exactly the home you want.

Can Willis Sinclair Homes help with plans for my home?

Willis Sinclair Homes can assist you by drawing plans for you. We are not an architectural firm, however, we do work closely with several architects as well as landscape architects and interior designers.

What do I get to choose for my home?

Since Willis Sinclair Homes builds only custom homes, you may choose anything you wish as long as it meets building codes. We will work with you to design the exact home you want. We will also provide suggestions based on our years of experience.

Can I do part of the work myself?

Willis Sinclair Homes will work with you to build your home. If you prefer to do part of the work yourself (and are qualified to do it), contact us (843)846-2500 and let’s discuss it. We are open to working with you.

Do I have to get permits or other paperwork?

Willis Sinclair Homes will be happy to pull all necessary permits and paperwork to build your home. All you have to do is tell us what you want.

What is the difference between cost plus and fixed price new home contracts?

There are two basic ways to price a home. One is cost plus. The alternative is fixed price.

Cost Plus

With this scenario the builder tracks the actual cost and then adds his markup (typically 15% to 20%). Cost plus contracts are easier for builders because there is no estimating to do nor is there any incentive to save the home buyer any money with competitive shopping. Although there is no incentive for a builder to save money with cost plus, please be assured Willis Sinclair Homes will do everything possible to build you the best possible home for the best possible price no matter how we bid it. We give competitive bids just like our fixed price homes and pass the savings on to our customers.

Fixed Price

A fixed price contract is basically a contract that states the builder will build your home for a pre-agreed upon price. It provides allowances for items that might vary such as appliances, carpets, cabinets, et cetera. If you go over or under on your allowances, the fixed price is adjusted accordingly. Usually, there are agreements to adjust the price if there is a large change in materials (such as after hurricane Katrina).

Willis Sinclair Homes will price your home either way you choose. In either case, we will build you the best possible home for the best possible price.

How does cost plus and fixed price work for remodeling jobs?

Interestingly, in the case of home remodeling, it is usually to the home owner’s advantage to have a cost plus contract over a fixed price contract.

Cost Plus

In the case of cost plus, the builder is not forced to guess what damage may lie below the surface. The builder can give a relatively firm price that does not include any unknown problems, however, very few remodeling jobs don’t have hidden damage that needs to be addressed.

Fixed Price

The only way a builder can protect himself with a fixed price bid on a remodeling job is to guess what damage might be encountered and charge for it. The builder has to guess high or risk losing money if serious damage is encountered. If more damage is uncovered than the builder guessed, he either has to 1) change his price, 2) lose money by fixing it or 3) do a cheap job “fixing” the damage. None of these are good choices for the homeowner.

Willis Sinclair Homes will remodel your home at the very lowest cost. We will bid it either way. You can be assured we will do the best remodeling job for the best possible price.