The Building Process

  1. How long does it take to build a custom home with HomeSource Custom Homes? 
    The typical construction timeline is 9-12 months once excavation begins. However, timeframes can fluctuate depending on weather and other factors.
  2. What are the steps involved in the building process? 
    The process includes a consultation, pricing, blueprint design, selecting interior finishes, site work and excavation, foundation work, framing, mechanicals (electric, plumbing, HVAC), insulation, interior and exterior finishes, and landscaping.
  3. Do I need to have a house plan before starting the process? 
    No, you don't need a plan beforehand. HomeSource Custom Homes can help you find or create a plan that suits your needs and budget. However, a plan that is close that may need to be modified is great to have for the consultation.
  4. Can I customize every aspect of my home? 
    Yes! HomeSource Custom Homes specializes in tailoring designs to reflect your personal style and functional needs. 
  5. What should I expect during the rough-in stage? 
    The rough-in stage involves installing the inner workings of your home, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Followed by their individual inspections. While it may seem slower than the framing stage, it is a critical part of the process. 

Custom Home Designs

  1. Can I bring my own design or do I have to choose from your plans? 
    You can bring your own design, a design to be modified, or browse through HomeSource Custom Homes' extensive library of plans. 
  2. What factors should I consider when designing my custom home? 
    Key considerations include your lifestyle, budget, energy efficiency, future needs, and aesthetic preferences. Structural upgrades cannot be done later unless you have an unlimited amount of money.  So, having the structural upgrades included in the initial design should be considered.  Countertops and flooring can be upgraded later.
  3. How does HomeSource Custom Homes ensure affordability in custom home designs? 
    The company has a "Build Custom for Less" program that eliminates traditional builder markups while maintaining quality. We are set up to allow the customer to put in sweat equity on the interior finishes and save the builder markup on those items.
  4. Can I make changes to my design after construction has started? 
    Some modifications may be possible, but significant changes can impact cost and timeline. Structural changes cannot take place as the engineering has already been completed for the permit.  Changing your decision on the color of something or moving a wall a few inches is ok.
  5. Do you provide 3D renderings or virtual walkthroughs of the designs? 
    HomeSource Custom Homes provides detailed blueprints and a mental walkthrough process to help you visualize the final layout.  We do work with architects who can provide 3D renderings upon request. As we design the idea and put it in the computer, we have the ability to show you a 3D exterior of the home and even change colors.  This helps with the design process before the estimate.

Conventional Custom Homes

  1. What makes your conventional custom homes different from other builders? 
    HomeSource Custom Homes eliminates traditional builder markups, making custom homes more affordable while maintaining quality. We have picked up on what makes a forever home.  Things like 2x6 exterior walls and upgraded subfloors to name a couple.  Ask about our Bluelines that describe everything above builder grade in our shells.
  2. Can I select my own materials and finishes? 
    Yes, clients have the flexibility to choose their own materials and finishes while enjoying HomeSource Custom Homes’ negotiated builder discounts. For the interior work the customer has the freedom to shop wherever they are comfortable.  We do not sell finishes.  We have a big meeting and decide how much money the customer wants for those line items.
  3. Do you offer financing options for custom homes? 
    If you’d like to find out what you qualify for and get a more accurate monthly payment, fill out the form below for pre-qualification. We have established long-standing relationships with reputable financial institutions that can assist you and help you find the most competitive rates. Complete our Pre-Qualifier Form, and email it to us. We don't offer in-house financing; we don't want to be a bank.  The customer is responsible for securing their own financing, and we can help with the bank.
  1. Are your conventional homes energy efficient? 
    Yes, HomeSource Custom Homes integrates energy-efficient construction techniques to help homeowners save on utility costs. Yes, by using the bluelines sheet, such as the 2x6 exterior walls, our standard homes have an R-19 as opposed to a 2x4 wall that only holds R-13.  This is just one area that helps efficiency.
  2. Can I tour a model home before making a decision? 
    Yes, you can tour a Custom Display Home to experience the quality and craftsmanship firsthand. Yes, currently we have a show home.  However, we are building another one an exit down from us.  We decided to do this as the current home, although structurally sound, is showing its age in the interior area.  The popcorn ceilings and 2” hardwood foyer is not desired any longer.

Custom Log Homes

  1. What types of log homes do you build? 
    HomeSource Custom Homes offers a variety of log home designs, from cozy weekend retreats to large year-round residences. Our log homes are totally custom and follow the same custom process.
  2. Are log homes energy efficient? 
    Yes, modern log homes are built with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing high-quality insulation techniques. Yes, especially if the customer decides to build with the “D” log.  This type of log allows us to frame a 2x4 wall on the interior to form a cavity to fill with insulation.
  3. Can I mix log home elements with conventional design? 
    Absolutely! HomeSource Custom Homes allows for hybrid designs that blend log features with conventional construction.  Yes, Usually the customers want a little bit of drywall on the inside.  If everything is wood, it can be overwhelming.
  4. What kind of maintenance do log homes require? 
    Log homes need periodic sealing, pest control, and proper drainage systems to maintain their longevity.  Log homes MUST be sealed on the outside.  You do not have to stain them, but you do need some sort of clear coat on the exterior for the weather.
  5. Do log homes cost more than conventional homes? 
    Costs vary depending on design, materials, and location, but HomeSource Custom Homes works to keep prices competitive.  Usually, they are a little more because the Log acts as the siding and comparing the cost of vinyl siding to the cost of the log is the difference.

Timber Frame Construction

  1. What is timber frame construction? 
    Timber frame construction uses heavy wooden beams and intricate joinery, creating a strong and visually appealing structure. Timber frame is the structure of the home. These HUGE timbers go in first with most of the time decorative beams in the vaults and ceilings. Then we come in and build the rest of the walls and ceiling around them.  It looks like a cathedral, usually with a big wall of windows.
  2. Why choose timber frame over conventional construction? 
    Timber frames offer durability, energy efficiency, and unique architectural beauty. Structural stability and the fact that all the “load-bearing” walls are the exterior walls (clear span long rooms with no support). Hybrid timber frame homes use Structural Insulated Panels to create an energy-efficient home.
  3. Can timber frame homes be combined with other construction styles? 
    Yes, timber frame elements can be integrated into hybrid designs for a custom look. Yes often times we will timber frame a main entrance and living room and leave the “wings” of the home conventional framing.
  4. Are timber frame homes more expensive? 
    While timber frames can be costlier due to the craftsmanship involved, HomeSource Custom Homes helps optimize costs. Yes, but with a proper budget and idea in mind we can help design this into the customers plans.
  5. What types of wood are used in timber frame homes? 
    Various high-quality woods like oak, Douglas Fir, and cedar are commonly used in timber frame construction.

SIPS/ICF Construction

  1. What is SIPS construction?
    SIPS (Structural Insulated Panels) are pre-manufactured insulated panels that replace traditional framing, improving energy efficiency and adding structural strength to the home. This only replaces the exterior walls and roof.  This is like building a big cooler. You need an air exchanger to circulate the air in your home.
  2. What is ICF construction? 
    ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) are concrete walls encased in foam insulation, offering superior durability, thermal performance and adding structural strength to the home. This is an upgrade for a traditionally poured foundation where they remove the form when the concrete cures.  The ICF form stays and helps insulate the basement.
  3. What are the benefits of SIPS and ICF construction?
    These methods improve energy efficiency, reduce construction time, and enhance structural integrity. 
  4. Are SIPS/ICF homes more expensive to build?
    The upfront cost may be higher, but long-term energy savings and durability often offset the initial investment. Yes, there is an upfront charge for these technologies.  However, there is a ROI as you don’t pay the energy company as much each month and your units are a little smaller.
  5. Can SIPS and ICF be used together?
    Yes, they can be combined in hybrid construction for optimal energy efficiency and strength. 

Custom Hybrid Construction

  1. What is a custom hybrid home?
    A hybrid home combines different construction techniques, such as timber framing with SIPS or conventional materials. 
  2. Why choose a hybrid home? 
    Hybrid construction allows homeowners to balance aesthetics, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Customers have different goals in mind when they are building a custom home. Being able to offer different building methods allows us to tailor the home to the customer's plans.
  1. Can hybrid homes be energy efficient?
    Yes, using SIPS, ICFs and other energy-efficient materials can reduce heating and cooling costs. 
  2. Do hybrid homes take longer to build? 
    The timeline depends on the complexity of the design, but HomeSource Custom Homes ensures projects stay on schedule. The design is going to determine the length of the project, not so much the building method.
  3. Can I incorporate sustainable materials in my hybrid home? 
    Absolutely! Many hybrid homes use eco-friendly materials to enhance sustainability. Yes, we are always interested in new and interesting materials.

What to Look for in a Custom Home Builder in the St. Louis Metro Area

  1. How do I choose the right custom home builder? 
    Look for experience, customer reviews, affordability, and the ability to customize designs to fit your needs.
  2. What makes HomeSource Custom Homes a top choice? 
    With over 45 years of experience, HomeSource Custom Homes offers affordable, high-quality custom builds with a customer-focused approach. We have seen just about everything someone can come across during a custom home building project.  WE have solutions in place for any and all issues that MAY arise during this process. 
  3. How can I verify a builder’s reputation? 
    Check client testimonials, visit display homes, and research their portfolio to assess quality. We will give you a list of custom homes that you can visit.
  4. Does the builder provide transparent pricing? 
    A good builder, like HomeSource Custom Homes, will offer clear pricing and help you stay within budget. Yes we even make it so easy to add or replace something in the design and estimating stage to be sure that you have exhausted all of your options and have made the most educated decision possible.
  5. Should I choose a builder with in-house design services? 
    Yes! Builders with in-house design teams, like HomeSource Custom Homes, make customization easier and more cost-effective.  Yes, if they can help you design the project, this is going to save money for the architect. 

1. Experience & Reputation

✅ Look for a builder with a proven track record in custom home construction. ✅ Verify their years in business—builders like HomeSource Custom Homes have been serving the area for over 45 years. ✅ Check reviews on Google, BBB, and Houzz to ensure consistent customer satisfaction.

2. Quality of Work & Materials

✅ Ensure they use high-quality materials and work with reputable suppliers. ✅ Ask about their preferred building materials, such as SIPS, ICF, timber frame, or conventional construction. ✅ Request to visit a model home or a recently completed project.

3. Customization & Design Flexibility

✅ A great builder should offer fully customizable home plans. ✅ Verify whether they allow you to bring your own floor plan or modify existing ones. ✅ Ask about their design process and how they incorporate your lifestyle needs into the home.

4. Transparency in Pricing & Contracts

✅ Make sure they provide a detailed estimate upfront—no hidden costs. ✅ Ask if they offer a fixed-price contract or an open book cost-plus contract. ✅ Ensure they provide a clear breakdown of labor, materials, and additional costs like permits and site prep.

5. Local Knowledge & Licensing

✅ The builder should be familiar with local zoning laws and building codes. ✅ Confirm they are licensed, bonded, and insured to operate in St. Louis and Jefferson Counties. ✅ Check if they have local partnerships with trusted vendors and subcontractors.

6. Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

✅ Ask if they offer SIPS, ICF, or hybrid construction for better insulation and lower energy bills. ✅ Look for eco-friendly building options, such as solar-ready homes or high-efficiency HVAC systems.

7. Timeline & Project Management

✅ Get an estimated start and completion date before signing a contract. ✅ Ask how they handle weather delays and unforeseen circumstances. ✅ Make sure they offer regular progress updates and on-site walkthroughs.

8. Customer Service & Communication

✅ Choose a builder who listens to your needs and keeps you informed throughout the process. ✅ Ask how they handle changes or modifications during construction. ✅ Find out if they offer a warranty or follow-up services after move-in.

9. Warranty & Post-Construction Support

✅ Look for builders who offer long-term structural warranties (e.g., 10-year warranty). ✅ Ensure they provide post-move-in support to address any issues. ✅ Check if they have a satisfaction guarantee policy.

10. Financing & Payment Options

✅ Does the builder offer financing options or work with preferred lenders? ✅ Ask about payment schedules—some require a percentage upfront, while others have milestone payments. ✅ Consider builders who help with lot selection and land preparation as part of their financing assistance.

Top Custom Home Builder in St. Louis and Jefferson Counties

One of the most reputable custom home builders in the St. Louis and Jefferson County area is HomeSource Custom Homes, known for: ✔ 45+ years of experience in custom home building. ✔ Affordable, high-quality custom home designs with flexible floor plans. ✔ Expertise in timber frame, SIPS, ICF, and hybrid construction for energy efficiency. ✔ Transparent pricing and a "Build Custom for Less" program to keep costs down. ✔ Strong customer reviews and testimonials from satisfied homeowners.

>