From Lot to Move-In” Step-by-Step

You Own a Lot. Why Are You Still Not Building? Here’s the Step-by-Step Plan

You’re not “lazy.” You’re stuck because home building feels like 1,000 decisions with expensive consequences. The fix isn’t motivation. It’s a simple sequence.

Step 1: Define the build target (1 day).

Lock your floor area and must-haves. Bigger later is easier than “bigger mid-build.” Write two lists: Must-have and Nice-to-have.

Step 2: Align budget with reality (2–3 days).

Do a basic BOQ by phase. Confirm inclusions/exclusions (permits, hauling, temporary power/water, septic, gate). Add 8–12% contingency.

Step 3: Choose the right builder (3–7 days).

See similar completed projects. Ask for timeline, manpower plan, QC process, and who manages your site daily.

Step 4: Sign a contract that protects you (1–2 days)

Scope, timeline, payment milestones, variation order process, warranty, punchlist, and retention/holdback (if applicable).

Step 5: Permits and pre-start readiness (1–4 weeks).

Confirm responsibilities: who processes, who pays, what documents are needed. Prepare site access and storage.

Step 6: Build by phases (8–16+ weeks typical).

Foundation → structure → roof → walls → MEP rough-in → finishes → external works.

Step 7: Weekly QC (30–45 mins/week).

Photos, checklist, and “what gets covered next” inspection. This is how you avoid rework.

Step 8: Turnover and punchlist (final week).

Water test, electrical test, plumbing test, doors/windows alignment. Clear defects before final payment.

Want a simple printable checklist you can bring to site? DM “STARTER PACK.”Hashtags: #HomeBuilding #FirstTimeBuilder #BudgetBuild #LotOwner #ConstructionChecklist

2) Checklist PDF (lead magnet)

Quick mini-checklist:

•  Lock floor area + must-haves

•  BOQ by phase + inclusions/exclusions

•  Contract with milestones + VO process

•  Permit path confirmed

•  Weekly site QC routine

•  Punchlist before final payment

You have a lot. What’s stopping you?

The real reason: too many decisions, no sequence

1. Step 1: Lock floor area + must-haves

2. Step 2: BOQ by phase (even basic)

3. Step 3: Choose builder (projects + schedule + QC)

4. Step 4: Contract that controls changes

5. Step 5: Permits + site readiness

6. Step 6: Build phases (foundation to finishes)

7. Step 7: Weekly QC prevents rework

   
   

   Want the printable checklist? DM STARTER PACK and I’ll send the printable checklist.

From Lot to Move-In” Step-by-Step