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Pre-Construction Timeline for a Custom Home (0–10+ Months Explained)

  • Writer: Jarrett Svendsen
    Jarrett Svendsen
  • Jan 15
  • 2 min read

Before a shovel ever hits the ground, a custom home goes through an extensive pre-construction phase. This stage is where clarity is built—on budget, design, feasibility, and expectations.

While often underestimated, pre-construction is the single most important phase of a successful custom home build.

Below is a breakdown of what happens during this critical stage and why it takes time.


What Is Pre-Construction?

Pre-construction includes everything that happens before construction begins, such as:

  • Land acquisition

  • Design and planning

  • Engineering

  • Budget refinement

  • Permitting and approvals


Depending on complexity and location, this phase typically lasts 6–10+ months, though land acquisition alone can extend the timeline.


PRE-CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE BREAKDOWN

PSA Signed

A PSA is a formal contract that defines how a builder provides pre-construction or advisory services before (or sometimes instead of) a full construction contract.

Think of it as the “planning and alignment” agreement that comes before ground is broken.

1. Land Acquisition (0–12+ Months)

Finding the right lot can take weeks—or more than a year.

During this phase:

  • Budget parameters are established

  • Desired locations are evaluated

  • Zoning, utilities, and site conditions are reviewed

  • A builder assesses feasibility and red flags


Engaging a builder early helps prevent costly surprises related to excavation, utilities, and municipal requirements.


2. Design & Planning (3–9 Months)

This is where your vision becomes a viable plan.

Includes:

  • Conceptual architectural drawings

  • Schematic floor plans

  • Engineering coordination

  • Finish and system selections

  • Ongoing budget alignment



This phase is collaborative and iterative by design—refinements here save time and money later.


3. Permitting & Approvals (3–5+ Months)

Local municipalities review:

  • Zoning compliance

  • Engineering plans

  • Structural and building codes


It’s common for plans to go through multiple review cycles. A builder familiar with local requirements can significantly reduce delays.


Why This Phase Matters So Much

Pre-construction sets the foundation for:

  • Budget accuracy

  • Schedule reliability

  • Construction efficiency

  • Long-term quality


Skipping or rushing this phase often leads to redesigns, delays, and cost overruns once construction begins.


Pre-Construction Timeline Infographic

This visual breakdown shows how each phase fits together and why timelines vary from project to project.


Infographic titled ‘Design & Pre-Construction Timeline’ illustrating the step-by-step process of custom home pre-construction. The timeline flows vertically from top to bottom, beginning with PSA signed, followed by a program and goals meeting, site preparation and footprint planning, design of floor plans, and kickoff meeting. It continues through client floor plan approval, initial cost work-up, drafting plans, submitting for permit, and permitting. Later stages include finish selections, budget revisions, construction management agreement, permit approval, mobilization on site, and ends with ‘Construction Begins.’ Each phase includes estimated time ranges in weeks and brief explanatory notes.


Want the Full Picture?

The Custom Home Building Guide includes:

  • Both timeline infographics: Pre-Construction and Construction Timelines

  • Detailed explanations of each phase

  • Planning checklists and expert insights


Download the free guide to see the entire journey from planning to move-in.



 
 
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Start your custom home building journey with clarity and confidence.

Download a free custom home building guide from Ethos Builders. Learn real costs, timelines, and how to build a high-performance custom home in the Chicago suburbs.

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