Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Home Building
Planning a custom home build or remodel raises plenty of questions. Below, you’ll find answers to common topics including design, timelines, EGLE permits, and what to expect during the building process. Whether you’re building near Lake Michigan or updating a home in Southwest Michigan, this guide covers what you need to know.
What does it cost to build a custom home?
Custom home building costs vary depending on the home’s location, size, automation, efficiency, and more. Material and brand preferences within selection categories such as cabinetry, flooring, appliances, lighting, and fixtures for example will also drive costs for each decision made in and outside the home. Reviewing recent Southwest Michigan custom homes can help you estimate current price per square foot in that geographic area. Schmidke Construction can guide you through expected costs during your planning phase.
Do you have a designer or architect in-house?
We do not have an architect or interior designer on staff, but we collaborate closely with many trusted professionals in Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana. As part of our custom home building process, we connect clients with designers and architects who match their style, budget, and project timeline.
Do I need an architect to draw plans in order to build or remodel?
Yes. To ensure quality and keep your custom home or remodel on schedule, we require both an architect and a designer. Plans under 3,400 square feet may not need to be stamped, but we often recommend a structural engineer review. This is standard for luxury houses and Lake Michigan homes.
Why do I need a designer if I have an architect and builder?
In any custom home, the architect, builder, and designer work together to maintain vision, flow, and timeline. Designers are responsible for selecting materials, finishes, and fixtures to match the interior design and ensure proper scale and style continuity across your modern home.
What kind of permit do I need for building in the dunes of Lake Michigan?
Building on or near Lake Michigan dunes often requires an EGLE permit from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The Army Corps of Engineers may also be involved. We have extensive experience navigating EGLE permitting, saving clients time and avoiding costly delays in coastal construction.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
For a well-planned custom home in Southwest Michigan, the average build time is 10 to 18 months. Factors like home size, weather, and material delays affect the schedule. Schmidke Construction keeps timelines realistic and transparent throughout the building process.
What’s the home building process? What are the steps?
Our custom home building process includes planning, site prep, design selections, and weekly updates during construction. You’ll go from architectural drawings to interior design sign-offs, then to punch list and completion. Schmidke Construction emphasizes communication and a clear step-by-step process for new home construction.
Who is my point of contact throughout the build?
Your dedicated Project Manager and owner Joshua Schmidke are in direct communication with you during the entire custom home build. We ensure your questions are answered and your project stays on track, from concept to completion.
Do I have to be onsite regularly during the build?
Clients are welcome to visit, but our detailed process allows for remote home building with regular updates, walkthroughs, and photo documentation. Many of our Lake Michigan luxury homes were completed with out-of-state owners who trusted our proven system.
Who else do I need to hire?
No one. Schmidke Construction manages everything. We coordinate trusted professionals for landscape design, pool installation, and all phases of construction, making us your single point of contact for the entire custom home project.