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Build Your Dream Home on Your Lot: What You Should Know

You probably have been thinking about your next home for a while. Recent experiences have taught you even more about what’s important for your family and your home. Do you have a location and design in mind for your new and improved life? Kettler Forlines Homes welcomes the chance to build your dream home on your lot. We thought we’d share some of the frequently asked questions to give you some thoughts on what you should know before you start.

Do I need to purchase the land myself or do you help with that?

We can assist you with searching for available land. When you find the land you want, Kettler Forlines Homes can help you obtain the financing. We recommend that, if you haven’t yet purchased the land, you let us take a look first. We provide a free homesite consultation to determine any potential obstacles—from permitting to siting the home you’re envisioning—to developing this land. We’ll walk the property and give you a rundown of its potential.

What financing do I need to obtain?

You will need to work with a lender to get a construction-to-permanent loan, also known as a single close loan. Unlike an ordinary construction loan, this program doesn’t require two separate closings (one for construction, the other for the mortgage). Instead, it converts from a construction loan to a mortgage when your home is completed. Kettler Forlines Homes can connect you with a preferred lender who is experienced with these types of loans, which ensures that the process moves along smoothly.

Should I find my own plans or do you provide them?

We offer an array of over 15 home designs and more than 100 elevations, ranging from 2,493 to more than 7,500 square feet. Our floor plans are very flexible, so we can accommodate many of the specific features you’re hoping for, including an extra suite, a kitchen with an oversized walk-in pantry, and a home office (or two) where you can enjoy the privacy you need. 

The benefit of choosing a Kettler Forlines Homes home design is that each one is tried and true. There’s no guesswork. Mistakes on plans do happen and when it does, you’re responsible for the cost to fix those errors when you provide the plans. In addition, by choosing one of our beautiful floor plans, you pay no extra fee for an architect.

I have chosen the land and the floor plan. Now what?

We’re going to do a close analysis of the property to determine site development costs. We’ll be looking at the slope, steepness, tree removal, and any areas that might need additional excavation, like large boulders. Then, we provide you with a schedule of development costs and permit fees that will be required. We want everything to be spelled out in advance so you’re fully informed on the costs moving forward.

You’ll then proceed with loan approval and provide a deposit on the construction of your new home. We’ll get to work on obtaining the necessary permits. Kettler Forlines Homes handles all the paperwork at no charge. You’ll pay the permit fees directly to the county in which you’re building your home.

How long will it take to build my home?

From construction to completion, estimate six to eight months. Weather can impact the process, but our experience will help to keep your new home on schedule as much as possible.

How far away will you build?

When we say we go the extra mile for our customers, we don’t just mean the extent of our personal service. We have built-in northern Virginia, suburban Maryland, and both Jefferson and Berkeley County in West Virginia.

Need more answers? Reach out to us for details or to schedule an appointment to dig into how we can build your home on the lot of your choice!

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