From signature to keys in hand — every stage of the new home building process, in order.
Signing a contract to build a home is exciting, but it's also the start of a process with a lot of moving parts. Here's a clear overview of what happens between that signature and the day you get your keys.
Contract and Deposit
Once you sign, you'll typically put down a deposit that secures your homesite and locks in your base price and any selected options at that point in time.
Design and Selections
Next comes your design center appointment (or appointments), where you finalize finishes, fixtures, and any remaining structural options. This is your last major decision point before construction ramps up.
Permitting and Pre-Construction
Your builder secures the necessary permits and finalizes site plans while scheduling subcontractors, ensuring materials are ordered with enough lead time to avoid delays once building starts.
Understanding this sequence in advance helps you know what to expect at each stage.
Construction Phases
Foundation, framing, mechanical rough-ins, insulation, drywall, and interior finishing follow in sequence, with inspections at key points to confirm code compliance along the way.
Final Walkthrough and Punch List
Before closing, you'll walk the finished home with your builder, noting any items that need correction. These get resolved through a punch list, ideally before or shortly after you move in.
Closing Day
At closing, you'll sign final loan documents, funds are transferred, and the home officially becomes yours — the culmination of months of decisions and progress.
Why This Matters
- Contract and Deposit: Once you sign, you'll typically put down a deposit that secures your homesite and locks in your base price and any selected options at that point in time.
- Construction Phases: Foundation, framing, mechanical rough-ins, insulation, drywall, and interior finishing follow in sequence, with inspections at key points to confirm code compliance along the way.
- Closing Day: At closing, you'll sign final loan documents, funds are transferred, and the home officially becomes yours — the culmination of months of decisions and progress.
Understanding this sequence in advance helps you know what to expect at each stage rather than feeling like you're along for the ride. Sterchi Homes keeps Evansville-area buyers informed at every milestone from contract to closing.
Want a clear milestone schedule for your own build? Browse our neighborhoods or see available homes.
