Video — How Do Custom-Built Homes and Production Homes Differ?

You may run across the terms "production builder" and "custom builder." They sound complicated, but its pretty simple. Think about buying a dress or a suit. You can buy one "off the rack", or have a tailor measure and make for you. Production builders create a "rack" of homes; custom builders measure lots, learn buyer preferences, and make highly customized homes.

Which you select depends on your budget and preferences:

How much time do you have?

Do you own a lot on which to build?

How much design input would you like?

Production builders frequently build multiple homes on multiple lots in the same place, so they generally combine the home and the lot in a package deal.

If you already own a lot, a spot lot builder who constructs an off-the-rack model from plans on your lot, may be your only alternative to a custom builder.

As with suits or dresses, quality and price vary for both production and custom builds. Take the time to evaluate both carefully in your local market.