Searching for a new home involves a lot of questions. “What can I afford?” “How much space do I need?” “What features can I not live without?” “Will I ever find the perfect home?” If you’ve been researching homes that are currently for sale and you’re having a tough time finding one that fulfills all your needs, or you want to build in a specific area or homesite, you may want to consider a custom house.
Home Building Services Offered by 2C Construction
Custom homes are brand-new residences designed and developed to an owner’s exact specifications with new, warrantied appliances and mechanicals. Are you in love with minimalistic, modern design? Looking for the Southern farmhouse look? No matter what you want your new home to be, we will use your ideas as inspiration to create a finished product that matches your aesthetic with quality materials.
- Site Preparation
- Plumbing
- Electrical Work
- Infrastructure
- Exterior design
Why Choose 2C for Your Custom Home Build?
2C has extensive experience in the residential and commercial building trades and has helped thousands of home and business owners create their dream spaces. Sorting through architects and design professionals, coordinating all the trades, managing deadlines, and keeping complex projects organized is very difficult if you don’t have a team of experienced builders behind you. Additionally, making sure your building site has met all the local requirements and ordinances is very important. DIYers often run into problems with permits and unforeseen barriers to completion, and projects can remain unfinished for months or even years.
We help homeowners find the perfect floor plan or have one designed for them with an architect’s help. We coordinate all the permits, trades, and labor, resulting in an on-time and within-budget project. Trust a custom home builder and general contractor at 2C to help you every step of the way, from concept to completion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Home Building
Why should I choose a custom home?
A custom home is unique to each individual and family. When you think of a custom home, think of your dream house or a house that fits your family's needs so much more efficiently than any existing home on the market. With a constantly changing world, it's nice to build a house with consideration for taking care of an in-law in the future or creating a home that has everything on one level for when you get older. This time, you know you want to insulate the subfloor between the first floor and the basement so when you're working at home, it's quieter and easier to focus in your basement office.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
For a midsize home, let's say 1800 to 2300 sqft, it usually takes about 7 to 9 months from start to finish, although there are another 3 to 4 months prior to the construction start of just preplanning for the house. We like to spend a solid 3 months minimum dialing down all the small details with a client prior to the start date. Also, all the windows, doors, cabinets and other items can be stored in our warehouse so once the project starts, there's no hold-ups.
What time of year should I build a house?
Currently, here in Michigan, it seems like the best time to start building a house is in late winter or early spring. This gives plenty of time to get the tar on the back of asphalt shingles and other items to adhere while the weather is above freezing.
Is it worth it to build a custom home?
Absolutely. If you’re someone who wants a house that truly reflects your lifestyle, tastes, and long-term needs, custom building is the way to go. While it may take more time and planning compared to buying an existing home, the payoff is that you end up with a space tailored to you and your family. Plus, you’ll avoid the compromises that often come with pre-built homes.
What are the steps if I want a custom home built?
We keep the process simple and manageable, guiding you every step of the way. First, we’ll sit down to talk through your goals, budget, and wishlist. Then we’ll move into designing the floor plan, securing permits, and prepping the site. Once construction starts, you’ll see the framing, mechanicals, and finishes all come together. The final step is your walkthrough to make sure everything’s just right before move-in. Think of it as a roadmap - you’ll always know where we are in the journey.
Can you help me design a custom floor plan?
Yes! We love working with homeowners to create floor plans that fit how they actually live. We’ll ask about things like whether you cook big family meals, need a home office, or want space for entertaining. From there, we can sketch layouts and adjust until it feels perfect. It’s a collaborative process that ensures your new home works for your daily life.
Are there limits to the size or layout I can choose for my new home?
The main limits usually come from your lot size, budget, and local building codes. Aside from that, you have a lot of freedom to dream big. Whether you’re picturing a sprawling farmhouse, a cozy cottage, or something ultra-modern, we’ll help shape it so it’s both realistic and beautiful. Our job is to blend your ideas with practical solutions that make the most of your space.
What experience does your team have with different architectural styles, such as modern or farmhouse?
We’ve had the chance to work on a wide range of styles over the years—from sleek, modern designs with clean lines and big windows to timeless farmhouses with rustic wood and welcoming porches. That mix of experience helps us understand the details that make each style authentic. So whether you’re after a bold statement home or a more classic design, we can bring your vision to life.
What steps do you take for site preparation before building begins?
Site prep is one of the most important foundations for a smooth project. We’ll handle clearing, grading, and making sure utilities are set up correctly. We also look at drainage, soil stability, and access to ensure the land is ready for construction. Taking the time to do this right means fewer surprises later and a stronger base for your home.
How do you ensure my home meets local requirements and ordinances?
We’re very familiar with local codes and regulations, and we make compliance a top priority from the start. Our team coordinates with city and county offices to secure the right permits, and we build to the latest standards. This not only avoids costly delays but also gives you peace of mind knowing your home is safe and legal from day one.
What is your process for obtaining the necessary inspections throughout the build?
We take care of scheduling and coordinating inspections at all the key stages—foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and so on. Each inspection acts like a checkpoint to make sure everything is done correctly before moving forward. We keep all of this documented and transparent so you know your home is being built with quality and safety in mind.
Can you assist with selecting interior finishes, such as flooring, cabinets, and fixtures?
Yes, we can. Picking finishes can feel overwhelming with so many options out there, but we help make the process fun and manageable. We’ll connect you with trusted vendors, show you samples, and guide you toward choices that fit your style and budget. Whether you want timeless classics or bold statement pieces, we’ll make sure the final look feels cohesive and personal.
What are the common mistakes property owners make during custom home projects, and how do you help clients avoid them?
A big one is making changes late in the process, which can cause delays and extra costs. Another is underestimating the budget or not planning for future needs. Sometimes people also focus too much on the “wow” factor and forget about everyday functionality. We help by planning carefully upfront, giving realistic estimates, and encouraging you to think about both your current and long-term lifestyle. That way, your home is as practical as it is beautiful.
How do you help ensure my vision and preferences are incorporated throughout the process?
Communication is key. We set regular check-ins, walk the site with you during construction, and review design details together before decisions are finalized. Your input drives the project, and we make adjustments along the way to keep it aligned with your vision. At the end of the day, our goal is to hand over a home that feels like a perfect reflection of you.
Request a Quote
No matter what phase of life you’re in, building a custom home may be the right decision for you. If you are thinking about making such a choice, give us a call; we are ready to help!
Request an estimate on your custom build and take the first step toward the new house of your dreams. Our custom home builders offer professional services to homeowners in southwest Michigan and the South Bend area of northern Indiana.