The
Martin Homes
PROCESS
From imagining your dream home to moving in—just 3 simple steps.
1. Budget & Financing
- Determine your total budget, including land, construction costs, permits, design, landscaping, and contingencies.
- Speak to a lender earlyabout construction loans or end loans, depending on your financing plan.
- Always have a buffer (10–20%)for unexpected costs.
2. Find the Right Lot
- Consider location, schools, access, zoning, and future resale value.
- Get a land surveyto confirm boundaries and check for easements, encroachments, or restrictions.
- Soil testing may also be needed depending on the terrain.
3. Choose a Builder
- Interview multiple builders, review portfolios, check references, and verify licensing/insurance.
- Ask about their process, timelines, included features, and change order policies.
- Make sure you understand what’s included vs. upgrade options.
4. Design & Plans
- Work with an architect, draftsman, or the builder’s in-house designer.
- Think about layout, flow, natural light, and future lifestyle needs.
- Finalize a floor plan before permitting and construction.
5. Permitting & HOA Approvals
- Your builder will typically handle city or county permits.
- If the home is in an HOA, submit plans for architectural reviewand approval.
- This step can take time—factor it into your build schedule.
6. Selections & Finishes
- Cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, plumbing, hardware—there’s a long list.
- Start early, and stay organized with mood boards or a design binder.
- Stick to your selections to avoid delays and unexpected costs.
7. Construction Timeline
- Expect 8–18 months depending on home size, complexity, and weather.
- Be prepared for regular updates, milestone walkthroughs, and decisions during the process.
8. Inspections & Walkthroughs
- Key phases include foundation, framing, pre-drywall, and finalinspections.
- A final walkthrough ensures everything is complete and up to standard before closing.
9. Warranties & Move-In
- Builders typically offer a 1-year workmanship warrantyand longer warranties on structure/systems.
- Get everything in writing and make a list of final punch items to address before move-in.
- I’ve spent over 15 years in the building industry, but the foundation was laid long before that—working alongside my dad, building boat storage by hand. Those early days instilled a deep respect for doing things right, staying accountable, and never cutting corners.
- Over the years, I’ve led projects for some of Atlanta’s most respected custom homebuilders, honing my craft and learning firsthand what separates a good build from a great one. I started Martin Homes to bring a smarter, more personal approach to homebuilding—one rooted in transparency, discipline, and true collaboration.
- I’m hands-on in every build because I believe the details matter. Whether it’s navigating costs, solving challenges, or protecting the client’s vision, I’m committed to delivering homes that are thoughtful, timeless, and built to last.
- Off the job site, I’m with my family—the real reason I do this work and the foundation that keeps everything in perspective.
