Suffolk, VA (757) 774-5818
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Our Process

From your first conversation with us to the day we hand you the keys — here is exactly what to expect.

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How We Build Your Home

Building a custom home can feel overwhelming — especially if you have never done it before. Our 10-step process is designed to remove the guesswork, keep you informed, and make this one of the best experiences of your life.

1

Initial Consultation

We start with a conversation. Tell us about your vision, your budget, and your timeline. Our team listens first so we can point you in the right direction — whether that is a model home, a build-on-your-lot program, or something fully custom.

2

Choose Your Floor Plan

Browse our library of proven floor plans or work with us to modify one to fit your lifestyle. We will walk you through square footage, bedroom and bathroom count, garage options, and any special features that matter to you.

3

Select Your Lot

Choose a lot in one of our established communities, use our land search to find available property, or bring your own land. Our team knows Hampton Roads well and can help you evaluate whether a lot is a good fit for your plan.

4

Design & Selections

Our head designer Tracy McClung guides you through every choice — flooring, cabinetry, countertops, fixtures, exterior finishes, and more. This is where your home starts to look and feel like yours. We make it an enjoyable process, not an overwhelming one.

5

Contract & Financing

Once your plan and selections are set, we finalize your contract. Our trusted lending partner at C&F Mortgage is available to help you secure financing that works for your situation — from construction loans to permanent mortgages.

6

Pre-Construction Meeting

Before we break ground, you will meet with our field manager to walk through the final plans, confirm placement on the lot, review the build schedule, and address any remaining questions. We want you confident before construction begins.

7

Foundation & Framing

We break ground and get to work. Your foundation is poured, and your home begins to take shape as the frame goes up. This is one of the most exciting phases — you will start to see the real footprint and layout of your home.

8

Mechanical Systems

Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are roughed in and inspected. Insulation is installed to meet energy efficiency standards. We schedule a framing walk so you can see the layout before walls close in — a great time to confirm outlet and fixture placement.

9

Interior Finishes

Drywall goes up, paint is applied, and all your selections come to life. Flooring, cabinetry, trim, doors, and fixtures are installed one by one. This is where the interior transforms from an empty shell into a finished home.

10

Final Walkthrough & Keys

We walk your completed home together and go over every detail. Any final items are addressed before closing. At closing, you sign the paperwork, receive your keys, and officially move into a custom home built just for you.

Common Questions

First-time home builders often ask these.

Build timelines vary based on plan complexity, lot conditions, and permitting. Most homes range from 7 to 12 months from contract to closing. We will give you a realistic timeline at your pre-construction meeting and keep you updated throughout.

Not at all. We can help you find and purchase a lot through our land search, or you can choose a homesite in one of our active communities. If you already own land, we are happy to build on it.

Minor changes are sometimes possible in the early stages, but once construction begins most structural decisions are locked in. That is why we invest time upfront in the design and selections process — so you feel confident before we break ground.

As involved as you want to be. Our team provides regular updates and schedules key milestones like your framing walk. You are always welcome to visit the site. We just ask that you coordinate visits with our field manager for safety.

Every CHOV home is enrolled in the 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty program at no cost to you. It covers structural, mechanical, and workmanship items for defined coverage periods. Our team is also here to help coordinate any warranty service you need.
Ready to Begin?

Step one starts with a conversation.

There is no pressure and no obligation. Just tell us what you are thinking and we will help you figure out the best path forward.

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