GEMS Build Process

Clear. Personal. Start to Finish.

01

STEP one

LAND & PLANS

Start by securing your land and deciding how you’ll approach your architectural plans:

Option A: Bring your own plans, and we’ll bid the project.

Option B: Sign a Design Contract with us. We’ll connect you with our resident architect, guide you through the design process, and collect a deposit based on estimated square footage.

Once your architectural plans are finalized, we’ll send off to complete the structural and foundational engineering.

02

STEP two

PLANNING & FINANCIAL MEETING

We’ll hold a planning meeting where we’ll go over:

  • Design details (doors, cabinets, lighting, exterior finishes, etc.)

  • Your ideas and inspiration

  • This gives us everything we need to accurately price your home.

During this meeting, we can help advise on the financial side of the process, if needed. Our team has extensive knowledge in the construction leding process and can help guide you through what to expect when working with your financial institution.

03

STEP three

BIDDING & SELECTIONS

We’ll send your project out for bids. this takes 2–3 weeks.

We carefully vet all subcontractors to ensure top quality and accurate pricing.

Meanwhile, our in-house designer will make preliminary selections based on your style to ensure accurate estimates for: Paint, Lighting, Cabinets, Countertops, Hardware, Flooring/Tile, Plumbing Fixtures.

04

STEP four

ESTIMATE & SPEC SHEET REVIEW

Once all bids are in, we’ll meet to review:

  • Your detailed cost estimate

  • A comprehensive spec sheet covering each phase of construction (e.g., foundation, framing, windows, etc.)

  • Make any revisions to the cost estimate

05

STEP five

SPEC SHEET & CONTRACT

Your cost estimate includes allowances based on design selections:

  • Staying within your allowance keeps you on budget

  • Exceeding allowances incurs a 10% change order fee

  • Coming in under results in a credit back to you

Once you approve the estimate and spec sheet:

  • Sign the construction contract

  • Return to your lender for final financing

  • We’ll send all documents needed to your financial institution

  • We’ll begin permit work on our end

06

STEP six

BUILD BEGINS

After financing and permits are finalized, we begin construction.

Typical build time: 6–8 months.

We stay in constant communication with you and our team throughout the process—ensuring quality, transparency, and a smooth experience.

At the end of the journey, you’ll walk into your beautifully built, forever home.

Sophisticated. Classic. Timeless.

FOR THE FINER DETAILS

In-House Interior Design Services

At Gems Custom Homes, interior design services are included as part of your custom home building experience—because we believe your home should reflect your unique style, right down to the details. Our design team will guide you through your initial finishing selections, helping you choose from quality options that align with your vision and lifestyle.

Selections include:

✓ Paint Colors (Interior and Exterior)

✓ Lighting Fixtures

✓ Plumbing Fixtures

✓ Cabinet and Door Hardware

✓ Flooring and Tile

✓ Cabinetry and Countertops

With expert guidance and curated choices, this process ensures your home feels truly custom—designed around your taste, needs, and how you live.

✓ Brings your vision to life: Your finishes reflect your personal style.

✓ Simplifies the process: Our designer walks you through each decision step-by-step.

✓ Helps you stay on budget: Accurate selections allow us to better estimate and allocate your finishing allowances up front—no surprises later.

Why it matters:

Our goal is to make the design process enjoyable and stress-free—so you can focus on the fun of creating your dream home.

*ADDITIONAL INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES AVAILABLE AT ADDITIONAL FEE

THE FINAL STEP

Closing Process & Homeowner Packet

As your custom home reaches completion and the final construction draw is made, you’ll return to your financial institution to close out your construction loan and convert it into a traditional long-term mortgage—typically a 30-year fixed loan. GEMS Custom Homes will sign off on the completed project, allowing your lender to move forward with the final mortgage process.

At closing, you’ll also receive your GEMS Homeowner Closing Packet—a comprehensive and organized collection of all the key details about your home. This includes:

✓ Paint colors and finishes

✓ Brick, stone, and roofing materials

✓ Lighting and plumbing fixtures

✓ Flooring, cabinetry and countertops

✓ Appliance selections

and much more…

The Gems Closing Packet serves as an invaluable resource for future maintenance, repairs, or upgrades. Whether you’re matching paint or replacing a fixture, everything you need is at your fingertips. It’s just one more way GEMS ensures you’re set up for long-term satisfaction and peace of mind in your new home.

Let’s make it yours, together.