Our Process & Timeline
Driven by curiosity and built on purpose, this is where bold thinking meets thoughtful execution. Let’s create something meaningful together.
A Thoughtful, Guided Approach to Building a Custom Home
At Patterson Signature Homes, we believe the success of a custom home is determined long before construction begins. Our process is intentionally structured to provide clarity, protect your investment, and ensure a smooth, predictable building experience — particularly in the unique conditions of Western North Carolina.
We limit the number of homes we build each year so each client receives our full attention at every stage.
What To Expect
A custom home is not a single event, but a sequence of carefully managed phases. While every project is unique, most Signature Homes follow this general timeline:
Pre-Construction & Planning: 3–6 months
Construction: 12–18 months
Total Project Duration: Approximately 15–24 months
Mountain terrain, site access, permitting, weather, and design complexity can influence timing, and these factors are addressed early to avoid surprises.
Phase One: Build Readiness Consultation
Purpose: Determine fit, feasibility, and alignment before moving forward.
This initial consultation is a focused conversation about your goals, land, timeline, and expectations. We discuss:
Property location and site considerations
Preliminary scope and investment range
Desired level of customization
Project timing and priorities
This step ensures mutual alignment before any commitments are made.
Phase Two: Pre-Construction Planning
Typical Duration: 3–6 months
Pre-construction is the most critical phase of the entire project. During this time, we work collaboratively to define the home in detail before construction begins.
Key elements include:
Site evaluation and feasibility review
Collaboration with your architect and design team
Budget development and cost modeling
Construction schedule planning
Material and system discussions
Permitting and documentation coordination
This phase allows us to identify challenges early, establish realistic costs, and create a well-defined plan — protecting both your time and your investment.
Phase Three: Final Pricing & Contract
Purpose: Establish clarity before breaking ground.
Once plans and specifications are sufficiently developed, we provide a comprehensive construction agreement outlining:
Final scope of work
Project investment
Construction timeline
Communication structure
Because much of the work is completed in pre-construction, this phase is straightforward and transparent.
Typical Duration: 12–18 months
Construction begins only after careful preparation. Our team manages the process with consistent oversight and clear communication.
During construction, you can expect:
A dedicated point of contact
Regular progress updates
Site coordination with trades and suppliers
Quality control at every stage
Proactive issue resolution
Western North Carolina presents unique building conditions, and our experience ensures that terrain, weather, and access are handled professionally.
Phase Four: Construction
Phase Five: Completion & Turnover
Purpose: Deliver a finished home ready for living.
As construction nears completion, we guide you through:
Final inspections and approvals
Detailed walk-throughs
Completion of final items
Systems orientation and documentation
Your home is not complete until it meets our standards — and yours.
Phase Six: Continued Support
Our relationship does not end at move-in. We remain available to address questions and provide support as you settle into your home.
Signature Homes are built for long-term living, and we stand behind our work.
“Their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out. We’ve already recommended them to others.”
Former Customer