How to Build Your Dream Home From Scratch

C.J. Braden     •      2 Minute Read

how to build your dream home from scratch

How to Build Your Dream Home From Scratch

Original article published: 3/12/23

Article updated: 1/16/24

Building your dream home is an exciting and rewarding experience. But it can also be daunting, especially if you've never done it before. With the right guidance, however, building your own home can be straightforward and relatively stress-free. So if you’re ready to take the plunge and build your dream home from scratch, this guide will help get you started. Let’s take a look.

modern beach house

Modern beach house design

Step 1: Research Local Regulations and Building Codes

The first step in building a new home is researching local regulations and building codes. Every city or county has its own set of rules that must be adhered to when building a house. This includes zoning laws, setback restrictions, height limits, stormwater management requirements, energy efficiency standards, and more.

It's important to familiarize yourself with the local regulations before beginning any construction project. If you don’t comply with these regulations, your project could be delayed or halted altogether.

white modern farmhouse

White modern farmhouse design

Step 2: Find an Architect or Design Professional

The next step is finding an architect or design professional who understands your vision and can help bring it to life. A good architect will help create a blueprint for your home that meets all the local regulations while still being aesthetically pleasing and functional for you and your family's needs.


While designing your home, keep your entryway a wonderful welcome zone with our great ideas below or via our YouTube channel @carolynjbraden:


modern house with modern door

Modern beach house

They should also be able to provide cost estimates for materials and labor so that you can stay on budget throughout the process. Then, you can work with your home builder that you’ve chosen to bring your vision to life. Make sure that you choose someone that will be able to create what you’ve designed.

modern house driveway

Modern home driveway design

Step 3: Get Construction Permits

Once you have plans finalized by your architect or design professional, it's time to apply for construction permits from city hall or other relevant governing bodies. These permits are required before any work can begin onsite, so make sure everything is in order before submitting them for approval. Once approved, construction may begin. Just make sure all work stays within the guidelines set forth in the permit.

mid century modern house with pool

Mid-Century Modern Home Design With Pool

Step 4: Staying Organized in Construction

Building a dream home is an exciting process that requires plenty of organization to prevent costly delays and mistakes. Writing out goals and assigning task owners can help break down the work into manageable chunks, while checking in regularly with contractors will ensure milestones remain on plan.

As the building process progresses, pay attention to potential issues you may encounter, so you can make any necessary adjustments ahead of time. It’s important to think ahead so you don’t have to add anything as an afterthought. For example, with the rising energy costs, many people are opting for professional furnace installation to keep their homes heated. With just a little effort upfront and regular check-ins throughout, you can stay organized during the entire journey toward your dream home!

California mid century modern house

Mid Century Modern Home Design

Bringing Your Dream Home to Life

Building a dream home from scratch doesn't have to be overwhelming or complicated—as long as you know where to start. Begin by researching local regulations and building codes. Then you need to find an architect or design professional who understands your vision.

Finally, get all necessary permits approved before staying organized while starting construction. By following these steps closely, soon enough you'll be living in the home of your dreams.

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C.J. (Carolyn) Braden is a regular contributor and editor for Carolyn’s Blooming Creations. She has been featured in numerous media publications such as InStyle Magazine, on HGTV, on Bustle.com, and more. She is the author of the books Georgia McMasters in Amethyst Lake Cemetery, How To Be Yourself: 3 Ways To Help You Being You, and the illustrator for the children’s book Bridging Connections. She is a former classroom teacher that now dedicates her life to educating others on how to live their most healthy, creative and happy life. Learn more about her visiting our About Us page.

This is a collaborative post and may contain affiliate links. All opinions and ideas expressed in this post, however, are based on my personal point of view.