Our Process

Give us a call or send us a text. Our Client Relationship Specialist will set up a time to meet with you. Whether you’re hoping to build a custom home or remodel a portion of your existing home, chances are you are coming to us with a rough idea of what you want to build.

In this first meeting we listen and ask key questions. Understanding you and your project is very important to us.
We want to know the “why” behind your desire to build or remodel. It’s our job to help you get your first glimpse into the scope of your project--a big picture look at the challenge of moving your idea down the road to completion.

We have a detailed pre-planning process to help us get to know you and your vision as quickly as possible. After this initial meeting, if you’d like to explore Schaefer Custom Homes further - it’s time to have an in-depth exploratory meeting with our company President, Erich Schaefer.

The Design & Planning Phase is an in-depth discovery session to discuss the current state of your land and/or your existing home, square footage, design, materials, etc. in order to provide you with an accurate budget range. The more information you are able to provide, the better.
Following our in-depth planning conversations with you, we will develop and deliver a Professional Service Agreement (PSA) for you to sign. Each PSA we develop is different but will usually include land surveys, planning, timeline estimates, preliminary and final budgeting, and more. The PSA is an excellent way to make sure you are getting what you want.

As plans solidify, it is time to meet with our design team to turn plans into detailed visuals. During these meetings, you will work with our designers to select allowance items and materials such as appliances, windows, flooring, countertops, etc. This is so much fun. This process helps refine the budget and assure you that there will be no costly surprises once we are in construction. At this point in the process, we will have finalized architectural plans, specifications, and allowances, and we will be ready to sign a building contract.

If, at this point, you determine that you are not ready to move forward, Schaefer Custom Homes will charge a consultant fee for the planning and documentation provided up to this point.

From architects to designers, artisans, trades people, and suppliers, everyone is on board to make sure your vision comes to fruition. At this stage, you meet your project manager who will be your partner throughout the construction process. He will ensure that all building phases and materials stay on time and on budget. He will ensure that all work is done according to blueprint to the highest professional standards. Your home site will always be kept neat and safe. Your project manager will keep you updated on our progress and be ready to address any questions or concerns you may have at any time.
A custom home or remodel is a big investment. That is why we use a cloud-based project management software - Co-Construct. It gives you project access on demand. You’re able to see your budget in real time. In fact, you can even make decisions through your portal, and watch your budget go up or down based on the choices you make. It gives you control over your project in real time.
Erich Schaefer, president of Schaefer Custom Homes, is intimately involved in every aspect of your building project. After all, this is your home. We want to make sure you are happy, informed, and involved.

In the final stretch of your construction journey, we will meticulously inspect everything, meet with you for final review and approval, walk through appliance and home tech instructions. Then we perform a thorough cleanup, document your feedback, and make any necessary adjustments. Our goal is to surpass your expectations in every way before handing over your keys. That’s when we uncork a vintage coastal wine and celebrate your homecoming together.