Building a new home is a big dream. It's also one of the most rewarding decisions you can make for your family. But figuring out where to start is often the toughest part.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by financing, permits, floor plans, and everything in between, you’re not alone. Most homeowners don’t know what the first step should be.

This guide walks you through exactly how to get started building a home, with insight from experienced custom home builders serving the Kansas City Metro. You’ll understand what to expect, what decisions to prepare for, and how to move forward with confidence.

Define Your Vision and Set a Realistic Budget

Before you look at floor plans or hire a builder, start with a clear picture of what you want and what it will take to get there.

Ask yourself:

• What size and layout do you envision?
• Do you want a single-story, a walkout basement, or a two-story design?
• How many bedrooms and bathrooms?
• Are there any special spaces you need, like a home office, gym, or bonus room?

Then comes the budget. Building a home can be flexible, but not everything is customizable without cost. Talk to a builder early to understand general price ranges based on size, finishes, and location. Be sure to include extra room for:



• Land purchase (if you haven’t already bought a lot)
• Site prep and utilities
• Permit fees and inspections
• Design fees or architectural drawings
• Landscaping and final grading
• Contingency funds (usually 10–15%)

Even if you’re not ready to commit to a builder just yet, most will offer an initial consultation to help estimate what your vision may cost.

Secure Financing and Evaluate Land Options

New construction typically requires a construction loan, which is different from a standard mortgage. It covers the cost of building and usually converts into a traditional home loan once construction is complete.

Work with a lender who understands construction loans, and get pre-qualified early. Your financing will help guide your decisions on lot selection, square footage, and materials.

If you don’t already own land, this is the time to start looking. Some people find their own lot, while others rely on their builder to help locate one.

What to look for in a lot:



• Utilities: Is water, electricity, gas, and sewer already available?
• Topography: A flat lot may be easier to build on, but a sloped lot can offer walk-out basements and great views.
• Soil stability: A geotechnical report can identify potential issues before you pour a foundation.
• Neighborhood requirements: Are there HOA rules or architectural guidelines?
• Zoning and permitting: What will the city or county allow on that land?

At Allen Building Specialties, we often walk lots with clients before they buy to flag any red flags or hidden costs.

Choose the Right Builder and Design Team

Building a home involves more than just hammers and nails. You’re assembling a team that will manage your vision from idea to reality.

The core of that team includes:

• Custom home builder or general contractor: Manages the schedule, subcontractors, budget, and quality control.
• Home designer or architect: Creates the layout and visual plans for the structure.
• Engineers and permitting experts: Ensure your home meets local building codes and regulations.

When choosing a builder, ask:

• Are they licensed and insured?
• Do they offer fixed-price contracts?
• Can they show completed work or connect you with past clients?
• Will they help with permitting and approvals?

At Allen Building Specialties, we use a transparent process with fixed-price contracting, so you know exactly what to expect. We also guide clients through the design process to align their ideas with buildable plans and budgets

Finalize Plans and Submit for Permits

Once your plans are complete and your financing is lined up, the next step is preparing for the build.

That includes:

• Site surveys and soil reports (if needed)
• Grading plans and utility access layout
• Submitting plans for city or county permits
• Scheduling inspections required before work begins

Every area is different, but in cities around the Kansas City Metro—like Spring Hill, Overland Park, and Olathe—permit timelines can range from a few weeks to a couple of months depending on workload and complexity.

Your builder typically handles the paperwork, but it's helpful to stay involved and understand the key milestones.

Break Ground and Begin Construction

Here’s what that process usually looks like:



1. Site Prep: Clear trees, level the lot, and install temporary utilities.
2. Foundation: Pour the slab or build the basement/crawl space.
3. Framing: Construct the walls, roof trusses, and general structure.
4. Roofing and Windows: "Dry in" the home to protect from weather.
5. Mechanical Systems: Run plumbing, HVAC, and electrical lines.
6. Insulation and Drywall: Prepare for interior finishes.
7. Interior and Exterior Finishes: Paint, cabinets, flooring, trim, siding, and landscaping.

Your builder will coordinate inspections along the way to meet code requirements.

Each phase builds on the next—and we keep clients updated through every milestone.

Understand the Timeline

How long does it take to build a home?

Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Total: 7-12 months on average

Weather delays, material availability, and change orders can affect this, so communication is key.

We schedule weekly check-ins with our clients and use project management tools like CoConstruct to track every phase.

Walkthrough, Punch List, and Move-In

As your home nears completion, your builder will schedule a final walkthrough to review everything with you.

This is your time to:

• Spot any issues or defects
• Request minor adjustments or touch-ups
• Learn about maintenance and warranty coverage

Once the punch list is resolved, you’ll get the certificate of occupancy, close on your final mortgage, and get ready to move in.

We provide every homeowner with a welcome folder, warranty info, and ongoing support if anything comes up down the road.

Don’t Worry—You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Starting a custom home build doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right guidance, you can feel confident, informed, and excited every step of the way.

At Allen Building Specialties, we’ve spent over 15 years helping families across the Kansas City Metro create homes that reflect their values, needs, and personalities.

If you’re ready to explore what it would take to build your dream home, let’s talk.

Contact us online or call 913-732-3036!