Green Home Building / Construction
Questions and Answers

Why Design/Build?

There are a lot of advantages in working with a design/build team as opposed to the more customary process of working with an architect first and then selecting a builder. A HUGE plus is that Lone Star Custom Homes, as the builder and designer, will take cost into account when designing. Because of this, we can can design to a targeted budget. Ultimately this results in time and money saved for you. Construction starts on time because there is seldom a redesign due to cost overruns. Lone Star manages everything on your behalf and always with the highest integrity.

Why choose Lone Star?

Lone Star is committed to providing the most extensive, most efficient and most personalized design/build services to you. As such, we strive for excellence in everything, from gorgeous and creative architectural design, to exceptionally well documented construction drawings. Detailed specifications and finishes, expert construction of the highest craftsmanship and comprehensive project management produce projects built on time and to budget. You only have to interact with one professional source . . . Lone Star Custom Homes.

Does Lone Star offer design only?

We design for our build clients only. This way we are able to focus an enormous range of expertise and synergy into providing the kind of exceptional homes that our clients have come to expect. Lone Star is very unique. We bring all of the professionals together to provide the most comprehensive design/build services we can.

Does Lone Star offer Green Design and Construction

You bet! We are one of the premier custom home builders in Indiana offering a comprehensive service in both design and construction featuring the latest in green technologies. While we can still build homes the "old fashion" way, we have to ask ourselves . . . why? Experience has shown that building with green guidelines produces a much more durable, energy efficient and healthier home. Why would you want something less?

Is Lone Star price competitive?

The old adage that "You get what you pay for" has never been truer than when it applies to your most expensive investment. Actually, Lone Star is particularly focused on cost and value. We have found that there is no better design tool than an in-depth working knowledge of cost, which allows us to provide very targeted cost estimating during the design process. You will know what the total budget looks like within 6-8 weeks after we begin design, within 95% accuracy.

How long does it all take?

Generally we suggest allowing 3 to 4 months for design and engineering. It's always good to take more time for this level of design and investment to make sure it's just right for your needs. Construction time will depend on the overall scope of the project, but our homes typically fall in the range of 9-15 months for completion. We can accommodate a quicker timeframe by expediting design, which requires meeting with you more frequently and/or beginning site work and foundation while the interior details are still being finalized on the plans. Lone Star has the team that can realize your expectations.

How much does it cost?

The homes on our web site generally range from $150 to $250 per heated square foot, including garages, terraces, pool and landscaping as well architecture, engineering and interior selections. A home site requiring additional foundation or site work would add to this cost. Our construction fees fall in the median range in comparison with other premium luxury builders in our area. But Lone Star is singular when it comes to the exceptional level of design, expertise and service that we provide.

What about design fees?

Our design fees fall in the median range for professional Architectural Services, which can range anywhere from $2 per square foot to 10% of project cost and are based on the overall scope of the project. Our professional fees are considered construction deposits and are payable as work is rendered. The design services we provide are exceptionally detailed. We are continuously supplementing our drawings and specifications with more and more detailed documentation to support the construction quality and timeliness. We know what information our construction team requires for effective management and we make sure to provide it the first time around. Unlike many builders, Lone Star's focus and experience is dedicated to residential design, and we bring the real-world experience to the design table.

When do I pay you?

Our Pre-Construction agreement calls for an up-front retainer of anywhere from $5,000 - $20,000 for preliminary design, selections and pricing. This is based on the overall scope of the anticipated project. These payments are credited toward the Initial Payment, which is payable when the Construction Contract is signed and which is equal to approximately 5% of the Contract Price.

How does the construction loan work?

If you choose to finance construction costs, you will first apply with a permanent lender, such as Old National Bank or GMAC Mortgage or other mortgage banks, for a long-term loan. Once approved, the lender will provide a "commitment" letter for a permanent loan. You will present this letter to an interim construction lender, (not all mortgage lenders provide construction loans). Construction lenders typically provide 70-80% of the total appraised value of the home and lot. Many of our high portfolio clients have the option of financing up to 100% of the construction cost. Lone Star provides the plans, specifications and contract price to the lender for appraisal, and we are pleased to help facilitate the loan process for you.

How do you get paid during construction?

Lone Star is paid as construction progresses. At certain intervals of construction, about every 3-5 weeks, we will submit a draw request to you and the lender. Your lender will perform a site inspection and fund, upon your authorization, according to progress. If there is no lender, then draw requests are submitted directly to you for payment.

Do you do Cost Plus?

Cost Plus refers to a construction agreement whereby the contract price to you is the sum of all construction costs (materials, labor, equipment and contingencies) plus a % fee from us. This method of contracting is used when the scope of the project is so broad that it cannot be sufficiently documented prior to construction start. We most often recommend a fixed fee contract, in which Lone Star assumes responsibility for all contingencies and variables during construction, assuring you of a fixed price.

How do we get started?

We start with a meeting to discuss your needs and wants for your new home. We will then enter into a simple Pre-Construction Contract, written in plain language, to provide professional services consisting of architecture, engineering and interior selections, with the intention of signing a contract for construction once the preliminary drawings and specifications are finalized.