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The right order for building a house
Most people think about building a house in this order: find land, hire a builder, build. The professional order is different: find land, hire an architect, get permits, then select a builder through a competitive bid process based on actual drawings.
Why an architect comes before a builder
A builder without drawings is building from assumptions. Every assumption that turns out to be wrong is a change order — and change orders during construction are far more expensive than design decisions made on paper. An architect's fee (typically 8–15% of construction cost) is one of the highest-return investments in a custom build.
The permit package
A new house permit set typically includes architectural drawings, structural calculations, mechanical/electrical/plumbing plans, energy compliance calculations (Title 24 in California, for example), and sometimes a soils report. This package can take 2–6 months to prepare and get approved, depending on jurisdiction. This time is not wasted — it is when good decisions get made cheaply.
Use the full cost calculator
The Right Call house build calculator gives you a U.S. state-adjusted estimate with 22 line items — from foundation through interior finish, site work, and soft costs. It is the most detailed free planning tool available before you speak to a builder.