Frequently Asked Questions
Quick and efficient answers to common questions that you may have.
How can I get design inspiration for my project?
At Radford Building, our expert team collaborates with you to design a home that reflects your lifestyle, preferences, and aspirations. Whether you have specific ideas or need inspiration, we can guide you through the process.
What areas do you serve?
We proudly serve clients throughout our region including Durham, Orange and surrounding Counties, focusing on creating high-quality, custom homes and renovations, tailored to your needs.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
The timeline to build a custom home can vary depending on the lot, design complexity, and materials selected. Most clients spend 6–12 months in the pre-construction phases, finalizing design, engineering, selections, budgets & contract details followed by another 8–12 months of construction. In total, most Radford homes take 18–24 months from concept to completion.
Our structured process keeps every phase organized and transparent so you always know where things stand.
How much does it cost to build a custom home?
Custom home pricing depends on many factors such as design, site conditions, and finish level. In our market, most new homes range from $300 to $500 per square foot.
This is why we emphasize the pre-construction process — through our Concept Agreement and Preliminary Building Agreement — so that every detail, selection, and scope item is clearly defined. This ensures your budget is accurate and you know the costs well before construction begins.
How do I know we’ll stay on budget?
The best way to stay on budget is by leaning into our pre-construction process. Through the Concept Agreement and Preliminary Building Agreement, we refine the design, scope, and selections until we can confidently guarantee pricing.
Of course, there are variables that can impact cost—such as design changes, upgraded selections, or unforeseen site conditions—but we communicate openly at every step to avoid surprises and keep your project on track.
What is your process to build a custom home?
We follow a clear, five-phase process designed for efficiency and confidence:
- Discovery – We listen and learn about your vision and goals.
- Concept Agreement – We develop a schematic design, identify major cost driver selections, define the project scope and budget range.
- Preliminary Building Agreement – We finalize design, selections, engineering, and permitting.
- Construction – We build with precision, communication, and craftsmanship.
- Warranty – We stand behind our work long after move-in.
Do you build on lots we already own?
Yes. Most of our clients come to us with a property already purchased—or one they’re considering. We help evaluate the lot for buildability, access, well and septic feasibility, and local requirements before design begins.
Can you help with land selection or property evaluation?
Absolutely. Our team regularly assists clients in assessing land to ensure it fits their goals. We review topography, soil, zoning, and access early in the process to minimize surprises and help you make an informed decision. This is all part of our Concept Agreement Phase.
Unfortunately, we can’t help with the actual purchase of the land as we aren’t a real estate firm.
Do you offer design services?
Yes. As a design-build firm, we manage both the design and construction of your home under one roof. This integrated approach ensures your home’s layout, materials, and costs stay aligned from concept through completion.
How do you communicate during the build?
We use a web-based project management system that provides real-time access to your project schedule, selections, budget, and daily job reports. This allows you to stay informed, involved, and confident throughout the entire build.
What kind of warranty do you provide?
Every Radford home is backed by our comprehensive builder’s warranty and supported by our partnership with Residential Warranty Company (RWC), a nationally recognized warranty provider.
RWC offers extended coverage for major structural components and systems, complementing our in-house commitment to quality and long-term client satisfaction.
We take great pride in the work we produce and stand behind our homes and the relationships developed during the project long after the move-in.
Can you work with my architect or a design I already have?
Absolutely. We’re always glad to collaborate with your architect or work from existing plans you bring to the table.
Even when you come to us with a design in hand, we’ll guide your project through our pre-construction process, including the Concept Agreement and Preliminary Building Agreement, to refine details, verify costs, and establish a final, build-ready price.
This ensures your design is seamlessly aligned with your budget, site conditions, and the craftsmanship standards that define every Radford home.
Do you build renovations or additions, or just new homes?
Yes — while we specialize in custom new homes, we also take on large-scale renovations and additions that require the same level of craftsmanship and detail as our new builds.
Our process and communication standards remain the same from start to finish.
How far do you travel for projects?
Our team primarily serves Durham, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, and the surrounding areas. For unique or specialized projects outside that radius, we’re happy to review the opportunity to see if it’s a good fit.
How involved do I need to be during the design and build process?
You can be as hands-on—or hands-off—as you prefer. Our process is designed to keep you informed and empowered while we handle the details.
Through our client portal, you’ll have 24/7 access to your project’s selections, schedule, and progress photos.
What makes the design-build model different?
Design-build means one team, one contract, one clear process. Instead of managing separate architect and builder relationships, we coordinate everything under one roof. This ensures your design and budget stay aligned, communication is streamlined, and accountability is clear.
Can you help with interior design and selections?
Yes. We offer guided design support throughout your project. Whether it’s finishes, fixtures, or layout details, our team and trade partners help ensure your selections complement your vision, lifestyle, and budget.
What’s the best way to get started?
The best way to begin is by scheduling a Discovery Meeting. We’ll sit down with you to learn more about your goals, ideas, and timeline. From there, we’ll outline next steps and guide you through our Concept Agreement, the first phase in turning your vision into reality.
Why choose Radford Building Company?
Because building your home should be a world-class experience, not a stressful one. At Radford Building Company, we combine clear communication, professional management, and exceptional craftsmanship to create spaces that inspire modern living.
Are we perfect? Of course not — we’re human, and we make mistakes. What sets us apart is our unrelenting commitment to client satisfaction and our pursuit of excellence. We work tirelessly to deliver a world-class building experience in a professional yet deeply personal way, and we look forward to connecting with you and helping you achieve your project goals.
How can I contact Radford Building?
You can reach us easily by phone or through our contact page to discuss your project and get answers to your questions.
