FAQ
Building a custom home is a deeply personal journey, and we know that questions naturally come with the territory. Our FAQ section is designed to give you clear, confident answers—whether you're curious about timelines, site prep, design decisions, or the turn‑key experience. We believe in transparency, accountability, and making sure every client feels informed and supported from day one. If you're dreaming big, we're here to help you understand the process and bring that vision to life with clarity and care.
What makes a custom build different from a standard build?
A custom build is designed around the homeowner — their lifestyle, preferences, layout needs, finishes, and long‑term vision. Every detail is tailored: floor plan, materials, features, and architectural style. The process is collaborative, flexible, and focused on creating a one‑of‑a‑kind home that reflects the client’s priorities.
A standard build follows a pre‑designed plan with limited options for changes. Layouts, materials, and features are mostly predetermined, which keeps the process faster and more predictable but offers far less personalization.
In short: Custom builds are crafted around the client. Standard builds are crafted around the plan.
How do I start the process?
With KWS the start to our process is simple. CALL US!!! We can schedule a consultation call and go over everything you are looking for! Make sure that you have a general idea of your budget and what size of a home that you’d like to build. We like to start the design with your “must have’s”. Pinterest or similar sites are great tools to show us physical examples.
What level of customization can be expected?
Our answer to that question is easy… What level of customization do you want? A true custom built home is built to the customer’s wants and needs, not a predesigned plan that we hand you. Remember… DREAMS to REALITY.
Do I need to have land purchased and an architect hired before contacting KWS?
Not exactly. If you have land that you are interested in and need assistance in the buying process, we have a team of real estate partners that we are happy to refer you to so you can get the best experience in the land buying process. But, while that process is happening, we can schedule a consultation to make sure that you have everything that we would be looking for. If you do not have an architect, we are able to assist with that as well.
How do you ensure the quality that you advertise?
We have teamed up with a core group of contractors that understand our values and what we expect for our customers. We manage the site daily through different outlets including face to face visits with contractors.
Why a slab home vs a basement?
Building on a slab offers strong advantages in both cost and efficiency. A slab foundation is quicker to construct, requires less excavation, and reduces long‑term maintenance concerns since there’s no below‑grade space to manage. It also provides excellent energy efficiency because there’s less exposed surface area for heat loss.
A basement, on the other hand, adds usable square footage and storage, but it comes with higher construction costs, longer timelines, and more ongoing maintenance due to moisture control and waterproofing needs.
In short:
A slab maximizes efficiency and simplicity, while a basement maximizes space and flexibility.
Can I visit the site during construction?
Absolutely! We are building YOUR dream home. We want you to have access to the full experience of the build. All we ask is that you contact us when you are going to the site so we are aware.
Do you offer interior design assistance or do I hire that myself?
We have a team in place for interior design. They not only will help you with color, etc., they will also give you furnishing options as well. If we don’t have exactly what you’re looking for already in place, we will find it for you.
What is your preferred method of communication throughout the build process?
All options of communication are welcomed! Call, text or email. Our goal is to make the process easy for you!
What is the best choice in insulation in a large space?
The biggest threat to overall efficiency in a large space is air penetration. Insulation type depends on the type of construction. Though we would offer any type of insulation, the most efficient and best coverage regardless of construction type would be closed cell foam insulation.
What are the best heating solutions in a barndominum style home?
There are multiple heating solutions for large, open floor plans. Our goal would be to give you the best solutions for your overall budget and needs. From radiant heated floors to each room having it’s own temperature control, there are multiple options to fit your exact need and comfort level.
How do you clean such a large open area?
There are numerous self propelled sweeper options for carpet as well as ride-on floor cleaners for the larger living areas.