The early stage of a build often involves work you cannot yet see on the lot. The sequence depends on what was completed before signing, the site, and the approvals needed. Use these milestones as a conversation guide, and confirm the schedule for your project.
Begin with the handoff
Confirm your main contact, how updates will be shared, and who will answer design and construction questions. Review the proposed schedule and the decisions needed from you, including any selections with early deadlines.
Ask which materials or equipment may have long lead times and when those choices need to be made. Windows, specialty doors, and appliances are examples worth discussing.
Review the site and home placement
Confirm when the proposed home location will be reviewed and staked, and whether you can walk it with the team. Use that conversation to consider orientation, access, views, and any questions about the plan before work advances.
Ask which survey, geotechnical, foundation design, or wastewater tasks are complete and which are still needed. The team should explain their place in the schedule for your site.
Track permits and approvals
Ask which permits and community approvals apply, when applications will be submitted, and what remains before work can begin. Review periods vary by authority, application, and project; confirm current expectations with the responsible team.
A simple status update can make this stage easier to follow: what has been submitted, what is under review, and whether any additional information or decisions are needed.
Work through selections in order
Review the selection deadlines that support the construction schedule. Structural decisions, equipment needs, and plumbing or electrical locations may affect work earlier than finishes such as paint.
You can gather ideas for finishes while the earlier decisions are being resolved. Ask the team when each selection should be finalized and which choices depend on others.
Check in at the end of the first month
Review completed work, pending approvals, the next decisions, and any changes to the expected schedule. Confirm where you can find the latest documents and whom to contact with questions.
Progress will look different from one project to another. What matters is that you understand the current status, the next steps, and any decisions needed to keep the work moving.
Rachel Rost is co-founder and CEO of Story Built Homes. Her background in real estate informs her perspective on the decisions that shape a homebuilding project. Meet the team
