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CUSTOM HOMES

Waco’s Premier Custom Home Builder

Jim Bland Construction stands at the forefront of custom home building, right in the heart of Central Texas. Our passion lies in crafting not just homes but masterpieces that are visually stunning and absolutely comfortable to live in.

  • IconLeading Construction Partner in Central Texas
  • IconOver 50 Years of Home-Building Experience
  • IconInnovative Floor Plans & Unique Home Designs
  • IconOne-on-One Home Design Consultation

Custom Homes Built With Superior Craftsmanship

In every Jim Bland Home, we blend top-tier materials with unmatched design, ensuring each facet of your custom home is carefully and artfully executed. Your vision is our inspiration, and together, we can co-create a bespoke home that embodies your unique style and dreams.

Check out our gallery to see some of our custom home projects!

Take Advantage of Our Real-Time Project Management Process

When you’ve built as many homes as we have, there’s one thing you learn over time to ensure every customer is more than satisfied with your work: transparency is king. That’s why we’ve teamed up with JobTread to give you the ultimate access and oversight to every aspect of your custom home-building project.

With JobTread, you can oversee our entire project management process, giving you real-time updates and progress reports to better manage and oversee your construction project. Watch our video below on how to utilize the customer portal and get ready to reap the benefits of seamless and innovative project management!

Helping Texans Build Custom Homes for Over 50 Years

For over half a century, Jim Bland Construction has been crafting stunning dream homes for Texans in the Waco area. From concept to completion, you can rely on our passionate and experienced team of custom home builders to realize your housing vision.

Start building your dream home today with Jim Bland Construction!

Answers to All Your Custom Home-Building Questions

While building your dream home is quite an exciting challenge to take on, there’s certainly no shortage of factors to figure out and questions that need to be answered along the way. Our goal at Jim Bland Construction is to do whatever it takes to ensure you’re always in the loop on every aspect of our home-building process.

To help you better prepare and understand the home-building road ahead, here are some answers to frequently asked questions about building a custom home in Central Texas:

What is the Average Cost to Build a Home in Central Texas?

The average cost to build a custom home in Central Texas typically falls between $350,000 and $900,000 or more, excluding the cost of the land.

On a per-square-foot basis, you can expect costs to range from $180 to $300+, depending on your home’s size, style, and finishes. Factors such as premium materials, intricate designs, or high-end appliances can significantly influence the final price.

Keep in mind that these figures don’t include site preparation, utility connections, or landscaping, so it’s essential to account for these additional expenses in your budget.

What Should I Look for When Assessing Available Lots?

Location: Proximity to work, schools, amenities, and highways. Decide if you prefer a rural setting or a finished lot in a subdivision.

Lot Size and Shape: Larger lots in rural areas can range from $6,000 to $20,000 per acre, while smaller finished lots average $50,000 to $200,000, depending on location.

Topography: Flat lots are easier (and cheaper) to develop. Steep or uneven terrain may require significant site preparation and grading, which can quickly increase costs.

Utilities and Zoning: Check for water, sewer, electricity, and gas access. Verify zoning restrictions to ensure your home design aligns with local requirements.

Soil Conditions: Texas soil can vary, and problematic soil types may require additional foundation work. A soil test is a wise investment before purchasing.

Working with an experienced builder early in the process can help ensure you select a lot that aligns with your vision and budget.

What Site Preparation & Foundation Considerations Should I Have?

Site preparation is a crucial first step in the construction process. Excavation, grading, and foundation pad preparation generally cost between $8,000 and $25,000, though challenging terrain or soil conditions can push this higher. Proper preparation ensures your foundation is secure and your home stands the test of time.

Most homes in Texas use concrete slab foundations due to their strength and resistance to moisture issues. Depending on the size and complexity of the home, slab foundation costs typically range from $14 to $22 per square foot.

Soil testing is often necessary in Central Texas to determine whether additional measures, like soil stabilization or reinforced foundations, are required.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Custom Home?

The construction of a custom home in Central Texas typically takes 8 to 12 months, depending on the build's size, design, and complexity. This timeframe does not include the architectural design phase or site preparation, which can add several weeks to months.

Factors that may impact your timeline include:

  • Weather Conditions: Heavy rains can delay site prep and framing.
  • Labor and Material Availability: Like many regions, Central Texas can experience supply chain challenges.
  • Complex Designs: Intricate architectural features or custom finishes take longer to complete.

Partnering with a builder like Jim Bland Construction ensures a realistic timeline and proactive solutions to keep your project on track.

What Permits Do I Need to Build a Custom Home in Central Texas?

Building a custom home requires several permits to comply with local regulations, including:

  • Building Permits: Required to begin construction.
  • Plumbing and Electrical Permits: Ensure your systems are installed safely and up to code.
  • Zoning Permits: Confirm your home’s design and location meet local zoning laws.
  • Septic or Sewer Permits: Necessary if your home will use a private septic system.

Your builder will typically handle the permitting process, but it’s good to familiarize yourself with these requirements to avoid surprises. Jim Bland Construction ensures that all necessary permits are obtained to comply with your project.

What Questions Should I Ask My Home Builder?

Choosing the right builder is a critical step in the custom home journey. Here are some essential questions to ask:

  • What experience do you have with custom homes in Central Texas?
  • Can you provide a detailed cost estimate and timeline?
  • How do you handle unexpected issues during construction?
  • What warranties or guarantees do you offer on your work?
  • Do you have a list of references or completed projects I can review?

A reputable builder like Jim Bland Construction will welcome these questions and provide clear, transparent answers to build trust and confidence in their process.

How Can I Stay Within Budget While Building My Custom Home?

Staying within budget requires careful planning and prioritization.

  • Prioritize Your Needs vs. Wants: Focus on structural and functional features first, then allocate remaining funds to upgrades.
  • Work With a Fixed-Price Builder: This approach minimizes unexpected costs.
  • Choose Materials Wisely: Opt for durable, cost-effective options that fit your style.
  • Communicate Openly: Regular check-ins with your builder help avoid missteps or overspending.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Build a Custom Home?

In Central Texas, the best time to build a custom home often depends on your specific goals and the construction timeline, but spring and fall are generally ideal. These seasons typically bring milder weather, which minimizes delays caused by extreme heat, rain, or cold.

Here's how each season plays into the construction process:

  • Spring (March to May): Favorable weather for site prep, foundation, and framing. Avoids rain-related delays and allows construction through dry summer months.
  • Fall (September to November): Cooler weather is ideal for outdoor work. Material and labor availability may improve as builders complete earlier projects.
  • Summer (June to August): Popular but hot, which can make outdoor work challenging.
  • Winter (December to February): Possible but slower due to wetter conditions and holidays.

Work closely with your builder to develop a timeline aligned with your goals and the Central Texas climate. Jim Bland Construction can help you plan effectively around seasonal factors to keep your project on track.

Work With Our Team of Waco Custom Home Designers

Whether you're looking for a traditional family home or an innovative modern masterpiece, Jim Bland Construction is the premier home construction company in Waco, Texas that’s willing to do whatever it takes to help you design and build the perfect custom house. Our team of custom home designers will consult with you regarding all of your housing needs, ultimately delivering a blueprint of your new home that adheres to all your specifications.

Once we’ve agreed upon all the details regarding your custom home, we’ll get to work right away, keeping you informed every step while we construct your dream home.

Looking to get started on building a beautiful home right here in Waco, Texas? Fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment with our team of custom home designers!

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