The name says it all — Empire Design + Build was created for those who want to customize a floor plan to suit their family’s needs. This allows you to be in control of the homebuilding journey from start to finish. Once you’ve selected a floor plan for your land, you can choose between a curated collection of included features, and personalize your home in our 3,900 sq.ft. design studio to create exactly what you need.
Here to help you throughout your Design + Build journey are Jessica Lundgren, Builder Representative, and Scott Hamer, Director of Construction. Today, they’re answering a few frequently asked questions that we get from our homebuyers like you. Take a look below at what they had to say.
Where does Empire build custom homes?
JL: We build custom homes throughout the greater Charlotte area, ranging from Rock Hill up to Mooresville.
Is there a cost to have you visit the land I’m considering building on?
SH: There is no cost associated with us meeting you at the property that you are looking at or have already purchased. Our Director of Construction will conduct a complimentary site visit to review the design and location of your home.
What if my land needs a septic and a well?
SH: If your land needs a septic and a well, we can assist you with that. We want to make sure that your property can perc for the number of bedrooms that your septic system will have. If timing is of the essence, we will ask you to go with a soil scientist. If not, you can go with DHEC to help design the septic system.
Do you make custom changes to your floorplans?
JL: Yes, we do make custom changes to the interior and exterior of our plans — the most cost-effective being those that are smaller and made to our existing plans. While we have many great floor plans to choose from, you also have the option of working directly with our architectural designer to lay out your custom changes if that’s what you prefer.
What is your price per square foot range?
JL: Our homes begin at around $100 per square foot. The completed price per square foot depends on the structural options you choose, your design upgrades, as well as your site costs.
What is included at the base price of the home?
JL: Our homes come very well appointed. They include 1 of 2 different feature levels, either Vintage or Prestige; however, we customize the feature level to exactly what you want included in your home. We can upgrade plans that begin with Vintage to Prestige, and the homes also include an allowance for your landscaping and driveway.
How long does it take to build?
SH: It takes roughly 9 months to complete construction once we start clearing your lot, but the whole process will take about one year from signing of contracts to completion.
How does a construction to perm loan work?
JL: We’re happy to refer you to several banks who have excellent construction and permanent loan programs. You can roll the land that you’re buying and your home into one loan so that you can lock in your interest rate up front. Then, you make interest payments throughout the build process while the bank makes payments to us as the builder.
What advantages does Empire offer over other custom builders?
JL: At Empire, you get all of the advantages that come with the volume of homes that we build, while still having the feel and flexibility of a smaller custom builder. You’re able to customize your floor plan as well as your interior finishes, and an excellent price per square foot.
Explore the possibilities of Empire Design + Build. To get started, contact us at 704-602-3333 or at DesignBuildNC@empirecommunities.com. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you on your new homebuilding journey.