The Design & Build Process

We lay out the entire project from start to finish, so you know what to expect and when to expect it.

For those dreaming of a new custom home, a clear understanding of the building process is key to a smooth and successful project.

First Meeting – Consultation

We can meet at our office, your current home, a potential home site or local coffee shop. Here we will get to know one other to make sure its the right fit, it’s not a sales pitch.

Preliminary Design & Budget

The design stage can start from an existing plan, photos, social media, a home you’ve driven past or completely fresh. We will ask tons of questions to understand what’s important to you — from daily lifestyle to dream home details! Once we have an idea of the type of home and the lot, we define general specifications and budget. With the budget range established, it is a good time to check on financing.

Land Acquisition

We can help locate and close on a site that fits all your needs, or build on a lot you already own. During this time we will use the topography of the lot and the home concepts you have in mind to design the perfect floorplan.

Final Design & Planning

Our design build process involves our engineers, architects and designers to create a fully customized set of plans. While not all builds require it, we are also able to offer rendering and 3D architecture tools, to help visualize and define the smallest of details before even breaking ground. Once we have created the final design, you will receive a full set of plans and specifications for your new home.

Construction

We will provide you with a preliminary schedule outlining when and how long each phase of construction will take. Integra exceeds the quality requirements of the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis (BAGI), Indiana Builders Association (IBA), and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Throughout the construction process, we perform quality checks at all phases of construction. As we progress through the schedule, we will meet regularly to keep you up to date on progress and answer any questions you have during the build.

Contract & Financing

Once the design and specifications are finalized, we can finalize the contract price and coordinate the financing process. We will give you a guaranteed price so there are no worries about cost over runs or going over budget. Then we are off to HOA approvals and permitting!

Selections

We know that while exciting and fun, the selection process can be overwhelming, but you are never alone during this process. We have a small design studio at our office with limited selections, but we have strong relationships with all our vendors and their beautiful showrooms who are happy to assist through the selection process. We can define all selections like cabinets, lighting, flooring & dazzling color palettes before construction starts, or our A+ team will put together a selection schedule that outlines when certain selections are due to make them during the build.

Completion, Debrief & Warranty

Construction is complete and it’s time to move in, we will do a walk thru with you to explain all the features and functions included throughout. After you have settled in, you’ll be comfortable to know that our family has been building homes for over 30 years, its in our blood! We will stand by you through thick and thin, any time you need help with your home and beyond…throughout this process we become like family!

FAQs

DO I NEED TO HIRE AN ARCHITECT OR PLAN DESIGNER FIRST?
The short answer is no…visit with us first. While all of our homes are truly one-of-a-kind and have been custom designed to each clients needs, our most successful projects are the ones we’re involved with from the very beginning. We’re able to provide valuable information throughout the design process regarding building costs and constructability. We work with some very talented Architects and Designers, but it truly pays to have a builder in the room.
Absolutely! At any given time, we can make arrangements to visit a model home, homes currently under construction or homes we have built and sold!

Before buying land to custom build a home, there are a few things you should ask:

  1. Are there utilities on site such as water, sewer, gas, and electric?
  2. Is the property zoned for residential?
  3. Is there an HOA? If so, what are the dues and owner responsibilities?
  4. Buildability of the lot! (that’s where we come in)

See our entire checklist here!

You will know the total price of your home before we start construction, based on your custom plans and detailed specifications. The only way that changes is when we agree on any change orders — so there are no surprises. In the meantime, we have developed a handy budget calculator to help you get started: Budget Estimator.
Integra has been working with new construction lenders for over 30 years. We can recommend a few or will work with someone you know.
Michael is a Certified Green Professional (CGP) from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), so each custom home we build is engineered to minimize temperature loss, whether its freezing cold or hot and humid, using comprehensive air sealing, high performance windows and industry leading insulation systems. High-efficiency plumbing and heating/cooling systems are designed specifically for your home and installed for optimal performance. To brighten your home up, Integra uses LED lighting and Energy Star appliances to keep utility bills low, while providing high-quality performance and minimal maintenance. Read more about Integra Builders green building certification and check out our post about energy efficiency!
Typically, the design process takes 2 to 3 months. Followed by 8-14 months from the time we break ground to the time you move in. Obviously, the time frame varies depending on the square footage of the house, and Indiana’s dynamic weather conditions.

Granted, everyone’s scenarios are different, but we have experienced real estate agents on our team that can help with timing and preparing your existing home for the market. We typically recommend getting your home listed for sale approx. 2 to 3 months before completion of your new home!

Whether you hire an interior designer or you work with ours, we will make your imagination and dreams come to life. We have long tested partnerships with top vendors in the industry who share their showrooms and experts with our clients. We can define all selections before construction starts; or at our pre-construction meeting, you will be given a schedule of selections to make them during the build.
We know a home is often times your biggest investment. Our clients want to know that what they buy is a solid investment; built with the highest quality materials and protected with the builder warranty. Integra exceeds the quality requirements of the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis (BAGI), Indiana Builders Association (IBA), and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). During the construction process, we perform quality checks during every phase of the construction. After you have settled in, you’ll be comfortable to know that Integra has been around for 30+ years and we will stand by you through thick and thin, any time you need help with your home and beyond…throughout this process we become like family!

Our Warranty

  • 1-Year

Materials & Workmanship

Our unwavering commitment to excellence extends to the very fabric of your home. With the exception of premium appliances, which are independently warrantied by manufacturers, we stands firmly behind the meticulous craftsmanship and flawless installation of the vast majority of elements we integrate into your home. This comprehensive coverage underscores our dedication to your enduring satisfaction and the lasting quality of our work.

  • 2-Year

Mechanical Warranty

Enjoy two years of comprehensive coverage on your home’s essential HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems from your closing date, ensuring lasting peace of mind.

  • 4-Year

Roof Warranty

Rest assured with up to four years of coverage against roof leaks, a testament to our commitment to quality. While your homeowner’s policy typically addresses weather-related or external damage, we provide our unwavering support for all other roof-related concerns.

  • 10-Year

Structural Warranty

Your new home includes comprehensive coverage for key structural elements – footings, bearing walls, beams, trusses, subfloors, and roof sheathing – ensuring lasting structural integrity.

Let’s Build Your Vision Together

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Modern Luxury. Masterfully Built.

Rooted in a legacy of engineering and construction, Integra Builders and Iqon Homes represents the newest generation of Mercho, Wells & Masterson. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, we’re uniquely positioned to craft exceptional luxury custom homes throughout Central Indiana.