
Phase
1: Discovery
The first phase, according to Hibbs, is the “Discovery’” phase. “That’s where
we get to know the client and learn what they want to accomplish,” Hibbs
explains. Hibbs provides them with a “Needs, Wants and Wishes” worksheet, gives
them references, and walks them through homes they’ve built.
At this stage, Hibbs also helps the buyer find a lot, obtain loan approvals,
and hire an architect. Kim’s wife, Jan, is a licensed real estate agent for
Coldwell Banker Gundaker. However, fifty percent of clients that come to them
already have a lot. Kim sets up and attends several client meetings with
potential architects to find the best fit.
“This requires a lot of hand holding,” Hibbs admits, “but that’s what a custom
home client is looking for. They want to make sure you’re with them in every
phase. It’s extremely important that clients deal with the same people
throughout the process, and that they don’t feel rushed.”
Phase 2 and 3: Design and
Budgeting
These phases cover the pre-building process of design and budgeting. In this
phase, the firm helps the buyer complete a site analysis, draft a construction
schedule, develop a budget, and discuss options. “Architects have been known to
over design,” notes Hibbs. “So, in this phase, we want to make sure the
architect designs the home to the budget.”
In addition, at this time, clients are out making selections. There are
probably 35 or 40 critical decisions that clients have to make, with
selections, finishes, and colors, according to Hibbs. On a real complex home,
he notes, it could be as many as 50. So, he adds, “it’s vital to know exactly
where to set our allowances for client selections.”
Interior image of a custom home kitchen built by Hibbs Homes. Photo courtesy of Hibbs Homes
A major option presented by Hibbs to his custom buyers at this stage is to design their home to be a sustainable, energy-efficient “green home.” Hibbs Homes is an Energy STAR partner and a designated RESNET builder. The firm has completed Net Zero Homes and built the first Active House in North America. Hibbs, himself, is a Certified Green Professional through NAHB.
See accompanying article: “How to Build an Eco-Friendly Custom Home.”
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