Frequently Asked Questions
How much per square foot should I budget for my house?
That depends on the size and style of the home as well as the materials
and finishes chosen. For example, a single-level home generally costs more
per square foot to construct than a multi-story house. Also, the cost per
square foot decreases as the size of the home increases. Lancaster Craftsmen
Builders has built homes ranging from the low $100s to over $200 per square
foot. We can help you determine how much to budget, once we've discussed
what type of home you have in mind. And, of course, we provide you with
a full, turnkey estimate before you sign a contract.
Where do you build?
We currently build in Frederick and Washington counties in Maryland.
Do you only build on Lancaster lots, or will you build on a lot I own
or am buying?
Both! We are happy to build on your property. In fact, our specialty
is helping you make the most of your site. We also have home sites in carefully
chosen Lancaster Craftsmen Builders communities. Please go to the current
communities section of this site to see where we are now building.
Will you build from my plans?
Yes. Of course, you also have the option of using our design/build
service in which we design a home based on your needs!
How long will it take to build my home?
That depends on the time of year, site conditions, the style and
size of the home, and the availability of materials. From the start of
actual construction, we typically complete a home within five to eight
months. Remember, no two Lancaster Craftsmen Builders homes are exactly
alike, and we take the time and attention to detail needed to construct
a top-quality home that you'll enjoy for years to come. The progress
of construction is also dependent on you and how quickly you make decisions
that need to be made during the process.
How much cash do I need for a down payment?
Typically, the down payment is 5% of the purchase price. We also
require a commitment letter from the lender.
How can I finance my home?
Custom homes can be financed in several ways. Lancaster Craftsmen
Builders will work with your lender to find a solution to fit your needs.
We also have a preferred lender who has provided financing for many of
our custom homebuyers and is able to offer a number of beneficial alternatives
to tailor a loan to meet your specific needs. If you are building a home
in one of our Lancaster neighborhoods, you'll find we offer special financing
packages.
What information should I bring to my initial meeting with
Lancaster Craftsmen Builders?
If you have your own lot, please bring a survey or site plan. Many clients bring
us a floor plan, sketch or clipping of a style they have in mind. Others simply
bring us ideas and a list of needs and wishes for their lifestyles.
How
will I know what's included in the price of my custom home?
Our final plans include exact specifications down to the smallest
detail. Most items are listed by manufacturer's name, size and model
numbers. You'll know the precise description of everything from windows
to the number and type of phone jacks.
How will I make selections?
We have a few samples in our offices that will help you make decisions
for preliminary budgeting purposes. Later you'll visit individual
vendors' showrooms to see their complete lines and make final decisions
for brick, siding, shingles, flooring, cabinets, appliances and
plumbing, and lighting fixtures—just to name a few.
May I make changes during the construction process?
Yes. We want you to be happy with the decisions you've made. We issue
written change orders for authorization if additional work is rendered
after the final contract is signed.
What type of warranty does Lancaster Craftsmen Builders
provide?
Prior to closing, a new home orientation and pre-closing walkthrough
will be conducted with you and a representative of ProHome, a nationally-known
warranty company. ProHome will manage our warranty program during
the first year you are in your new home, and they are known for their
rigorous quality control standards.
During this walkthrough, ProHome prepares and submits a list of any points of concern or other issues as defined by their “Builder’s One-Year Limited Warranty,” and we will ensure every issue is addressed in a manner that exceeds the ProHome warranty definition.
Lancaster Craftsmen Builders is a participant in the Professional Warranty Service Corporation and provides a ten-year limited warranty as outlined in your warranty documents.
Why should I choose Lancaster Craftsmen Builders to build
by home?
At Lancaster Craftsmen Builders, we design a home based on your needs,
from the ground up! We build custom homes for those who value true
craftsmanship and want a home with a distinct individual personality.
Let us show you how combining the finest techniques of construction
with innovative design ideas, can create a home that's even better
than you imagined — one that is uniquely yours!
Still have questions? Contact us.