You’ve made the big decision. You’re building instead of buying. And the very next question is bigger than most people expect, because it has nothing to do with paint colors or countertop edges. It’s about who builds your home, and how.

Two paths sit in front of you. One is the production route, where a builder offers set plans on lots they already own. The other is the custom route, where the home starts with you and gets designed around your life. Both get you into a new home. Where they take you is not the same.

The timing matters too, especially in July. Buyers who commit this season are the ones unpacking boxes next year. So this comparison isn’t a small early step. It’s the decision that sets everything after it in motion.

What’s the actual difference?

The two models blur together fast, so start with plain definitions.

A production builder works from a library of pre-designed plans. You pick a floor plan from the menu, choose a lot the builder already owns, and select finishes from set packages. The same plans get built again and again across a neighborhood, with minor variations. Efficiency is the whole idea.

A custom builder, and a design/build firm in particular, flips that order. Your plan comes first. You choose the lot, shape the layout around how you actually live, and make the design calls alongside the team building it. Nothing comes off a shelf, because the home is drawn for you.

Simply put, production building fits you to the home, and custom building fits the home to you. Which one is right comes down to what you want out of the process and what you want to walk into every night.

Where production building makes sense

An honest guide owes production building its due, because for plenty of buyers it’s the smart call.

Speed is the headline. Ready plans and ready lots mean shorter timelines and far fewer moving parts. When your situation calls for being in a home quickly, that predictability is worth a lot.

The entry price usually runs lower too. Volume keeps costs down, and a defined menu of finishes keeps surprises to a minimum. You give up some choice and get a tighter budget in return.

Then there’s the decision load, which people underrate. Not everyone wants to weigh in on trim profiles and cabinet hardware and lighting layouts. If a choose-from-three approach sounds like relief instead of restriction, production building will likely serve you well.

Here’s the honest read. If speed, a lower entry price, and a light decision load top your list, a production home fits. The real question is whether those priorities outweigh the ones that pull most buyers toward custom.

Where a custom builder changes the outcome

For buyers who see a home as an expression of who they are, custom changes the result in ways a menu can’t reach.

Your home reflects you, not a catalog

Start from a blank page and the home answers to your life instead of the reverse. You put the kitchen where you actually cook. You size the great room around the way your family gathers. You design the spaces you move through at 6am and 6pm, not the ones a stock plan happened to include. The home turns into a forever home because it was never meant for anyone else.

That’s what “quality over quantity” really means. It isn’t a longer spec sheet. It’s a home that fits so well the itch to move again never shows up.

One team, one process

A design/build firm keeps design and construction under one roof. You work with a single team from the first sketch to the final walkthrough, so you’re never the middleman relaying messages between an architect and a job site. Decisions move faster and nothing slips through the cracks.

Concierge-level service keeps the whole thing calm instead of chaotic. You always know where your build stands and what happens next. For a busy professional or a full-calendar family, that clarity is worth nearly as much as the finished home.

Building on your own lot

Already own land, or have a specific corner of Edmond in mind? A custom builder can build on your land. The home gets designed for that exact lot, working with its slope, its light, and the view you fell for, rather than dropping a stock plan onto whatever’s open. You keep creative control from the ground up, and the finished home feels tied to the place you chose on purpose.

Questions to ask before you choose

Before you commit either way, put these to any builder you’re weighing. The answers sort the two models quickly.

• Can I change the floor plan, or am I choosing from fixed plans?
• Who is my single point of contact throughout the build?
• Can I build on my own lot, or a lot I select?
• What’s in the base price, and what counts as an upgrade?
• How will you keep me updated during construction?
• Who makes the design decisions, and when do I make mine?

Line the answers up side by side. More often than not, the gaps decide for you before you’ve toured a single model.

The Edmond timeline: why summer decisions matter

Timing is the part buyers skip past, and summer is the hinge.

A custom build runs on a real runway. Settle on your builder and lot now, work through design and selections over the following weeks, break ground, and move in on a mapped-out timeline. The start date drives everything downstream.

That’s the weight behind a July decision. A custom build generally runs nine to twelve months, so committing now means you break ground while the season cooperates and settle in next year, right as life picks back up. Wait a few months and the whole timeline slides right along with you. 

Ready to build a home that’s truly yours?

When you’re ready to see what the custom path looks like up close, Bill Roberts Custom Homes builds across some of Edmond’s most sought-after communities with a design/build model built around your vision, your lot, and how you want to live. Walk through the build process to see how it comes together, explore where we build, and browse the homes available now.

FAQ

What is the difference between a custom home builder and a production builder?

A production builder sells pre-designed plans on lots they already own, built at volume with finishes chosen from set packages. A custom builder designs the home around you, your lot, and how you live, with the decisions made alongside the team building it.

Is a custom home more expensive than a production home?

Custom usually carries a higher entry price, since the home is designed for you rather than built in volume. In exchange you decide where the money goes, and you get a home shaped to your life and your lot instead of a floor plan shared across the neighborhood.

Can you build a custom home on your own lot in Edmond?

Yes. If you own land or have a specific piece of Edmond in mind, a custom builder can design and build there, working with the lot’s slope, light, and view.

How long does it take to build a custom home vs. a production home?

Production homes tend to be faster because the plans and lots are ready to go. A custom home follows a design-and-build timeline, which is exactly why a summer decision sets you up to break ground soon and move in the following year.

Which is better for a first-time custom buyer?

It depends on what you value. If speed and a lower entry price come first, production building fits. If you want the home to reflect how you actually live, and you’d rather have one team guiding you the whole way, custom is the stronger call.

As we step into 2025, the custom home building industry is witnessing transformative shifts driven by innovation, sustainability, and a deep focus on personalization. These trends reflect evolving homeowner priorities and present exciting opportunities for custom home builders to craft stylish and innovative homes. Here’s a glimpse into what’s shaping the market:

1. Sustainability Takes Center Stage

Homeowners are increasingly opting for eco-conscious designs and materials, prioritizing a reduced environmental footprint. Features like solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and advanced insulation systems are now considered essential. The push for net-zero homes has led to a surge in demand for reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled steel. Landscaping is also evolving, with native plants and rainwater harvesting systems playing a vital role in creating sustainable exteriors.

2. The Rise of Smart Homes

2025 is set to be the year of unparalleled smart home integration. Homeowners are embracing advanced systems that seamlessly control lighting, climate, security, and entertainment through AI-driven technologies and voice commands. These systems enhance convenience while adapting to individual lifestyles, making homes truly responsive living spaces.

3. Biophilic Design Gains Momentum

The connection to nature is a key focus for new homes. Biophilic design principles emphasize the integration of natural elements into living spaces, with features like large windows, skylights, and indoor plants. Outdoor living areas are evolving into year-round retreats equipped with fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and durable furniture. These features further blur the lines between interior and exterior spaces, just in time for winter in Edmond, OK.

4. Personalization and Luxury Redefined

Homeowners are seeking homes that reflect their unique tastes and cater to their comfort. Spa-inspired bathrooms, complete with steam showers and soaking tubs, and kitchens designed as social hubs are trending. Personal wellness spaces and tailored luxury elements underscore the growing demand for unique designs, which Bill Roberts Custom Homes delivers.

5. Adaptable, Multi-Functional Spaces

The rise of remote work and flexible living has transformed how spaces are designed. Home offices that double as guest rooms, and playrooms that convert into media spaces, are becoming the norm. These versatile areas feature built-in furniture and flexible layouts to meet the dynamic needs of the modern hybrid working families.

6. Minimalism with a Cozy Touch

The minimalist aesthetic continues to dominate but now includes warmer elements. Natural wood finishes, earthy tones, and textured materials are being incorporated to balance simplicity with a sense of warmth and comfort.

7. Future-Ready Accessibility

Homes are increasingly being designed with aging-in-place principles in mind. Features like zero-threshold showers, wider hallways, and smart accessibility solutions ensure that homes remain functional and welcoming for all stages of life.

Looking Ahead With Your Custom Home Builder

The custom home market in 2025 is more vibrant and innovative than ever. At Bill Roberts Custom Homes, we are excited to embrace these trends, pushing the boundaries of design and functionality to create homes that meet the unique aspirations of today’s homeowners in Edmond OK. Whether it’s integrating cutting-edge technology, achieving sustainability goals, or crafting personalized spaces, 2025 promises to be a landmark year in the journey of custom home building.

When considering a new home, one of the most important decisions is whether to go with a custom home builder or a production home builder. Each approach is distinct, and understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your vision, budget, and lifestyle.

Custom Home Building: A Personalized Process

Custom home building is all about personalization. Unlike production homes, which follow standardized designs and layouts, custom homes are designed from the ground up with your unique preferences, lifestyle, and specific site in mind.

With Bill Roberts Custom Homes, you will work closely with our in-house architect and interior designers to create a one-of-a-kind space that reflects your tastes and fulfills your needs. As a result, every detail from the floor plan and finishes to the architectural style and technological features will be tailored to your specifications.

This level of customization offers unmatched flexibility. For example, if you want a home that incorporates smart technology like a refrigerator that knows when it’s low on milk, energy-efficient systems, or luxury features like radiant heated floors, Bill Roberts Custom Homes will make it happen. We can also adapt the design to suit unique or challenging lot shapes, taking full advantage of scenic views or natural light. While custom building requires a longer timeline and a higher level of involvement from you, the result is a home that is truly yours, inside and out.

Production Home Building: A Streamlined Approach

Production home building, on the other hand, is often chosen for its speed, convenience, and affordability. Production builders develop large communities and offer a selection of pre-designed floor plans. These homes are built in volume, often in phases, using standardized construction processes and materials. By building at scale, production home builders can complete homes more quickly and usually at a lower cost than custom builders.

However, production homes typically allow for limited personalization, such as choosing certain finishes, appliances, or paint colors from a set range of options. The choices are fewer, making the selection process simpler for buyers who don’t have the vision, interest or time to truly personalize their new home. And, these homes don’t always meet all of your unique preferences. For instance, if you have specific architectural desires or need a custom floor plan to accommodate a particular lifestyle, for example, a first floor primary suite, production homes may feel limited.

The Key Differences: Flexibility, Cost, and Timeline

The main differences between custom and production home building are flexibility, cost, and timeline. Custom homes offer nearly unlimited flexibility, allowing you to design your home down to the smallest detail. The custom approach generally requires a higher budget and longer build time due to the complexity and personalized nature of the process. However, the sacrifice is often worthwhile in exchange for that truly one-of-a-kind home.

In contrast, production homes provide a faster, more cost-effective solution with predictable timelines and a streamlined selection process. This approach is ideal for buyers who prioritize affordability and convenience over full customization. However, limited personalization options mean that production homes may not fully reflect individual tastes or needs.

Choosing the Right Path for Your Dream Home

Bill Roberts Custom Homes are a premier custom home builder in the Edmond, Oklahoma area. It’s in our name! Having both architectural and interior design professionals in-house, enables us to provide end-to-end service that ultimately save both time and money. Making Bill Roberts Custom Homes an ideal compromise between the benefits of going custom vs. production.

Working with a custom home builder can be a dream come true.

All the spaces and features you imagine having in your perfect home can easily become a reality.

But there are mistakes that custom home buyers can make along the way that tarnish the dream.

At Bill Roberts Custom Homes, we turn our decades of award-winning service and custom home construction into a blueprint to lead you through the home building process.

Here are the top 8 common mistakes to avoid when working with a custom home builder—mistakes we easily guide you through!

1. Not Setting a Realistic Budget

Of course, the very first mistake some custom home buyers make is not setting a realistic budget. While this can be difficult, it is key to achieving your dream without shattering your reality. Setting a budget for your new-home build will help inform all aspects of the process. It will keep you focused and let you easily see what options, spaces, finishes, and features matter most.

This is one of the most tedious aspects of building a custom home, as it must be done in advance and as thoroughly as possible. Your budget sets the stage for everything, and creating it is the first step in your custom home journey.

2. Rushing the Design Process Without Thinking Long Term

This is a two-part mistake that some custom home buyers make because of their excitement to move in. The design process is a process for a reason: all the steps are broken down by experts to ensure the final product is exactly what the home buyer wants. Rushing the design process will invariably mean some details or desires will be missed, and that will only lead to regret.

Also, rushing the design process puts the focus on speeding up the immediate instead of preparing for the long term. Taking the time and care to build a custom home means you intend to stay in it for some time. It behooves you, then, to future-proof it as much as possible—even if that simply means adding the conveniences that will help you continue to enjoy your home as you age.

3. Skimping on Energy Efficiency

Another big mistake is to not consider the energy efficiency of your home, appliances, building materials, and systems. Investing in energy-efficient products is not only a great way to protect the planet (as less energy used at home equates to less pollution producing that energy), but it also will make the use of the home cost less.

Plus, energy-efficient products can often have tax benefits attached, saving you money in the short term too. They have the latest technology and newest features, many now integrating with smart home control (Amazon Alexa, Google Home, etc.). Neglecting to prioritize energy-efficiency is a sure way to be unhappy by the finished product of your custom home.

4. Lacking Storage Space

Life is about collecting memories, and that’s also what you can expect at your new home. But the storage space you need isn’t just for future collections. You need places right away to keep things like holiday decorations and seasonal wardrobes, and enough closet space for your clothes, linens, and towels. Your kitchens have to have enough shelves, drawers, and cabinets for your cooking accessories and pantry storage for your food.

Even your bathrooms need to have enough places to keep things tucked away and organized. Our point is: storage space exists in every corner of your home, whether you consciously think about it or not. Preparing your custom home with enough storage for the present and the future is a job you need to do in advance.

5. Customizing Too Much

This might sound weird when discussing a custom built home, but one problem new home buyers run into is customizing too much. Getting the custom home you want is a priority, but you must remember that every customization adds cost and time to your project and can, in the end, destroy the aesthetics you are looking for or the functionality you need. That is, too many ingredients might spoil the broth!

Your best course of action to avoid this is to write down a list of all the features and spaces you want in your custom home (much like you did for determining your budget). Categorize them based on room and usage. Rank them based on importance. And once you have your list, set it down, go for a walk, and then come back and take a look with fresh eyes. Make sure your custom home is just right, without going overboard.

6. Choosing Looks over Function

Your custom home will look beautiful, just like you desire. But a home can’t rely on just looks alone. It needs to look like you want it to, but more than anything, your new custom home needs to be livable. And we don’t just mean the home’s exterior: The interior has to be both pleasing to look at and functional for your family to live and thrive in.

Say, for example, you’ve always wanted ornate barn doors that open to reveal your lavish dining room. That’s all well and good, but if your family goes in and out and in and out of your dining room multiple times a day, having those barn doors might get in the way of how you actually use the room. The best custom home marries form AND function in perfect harmony: a balancing act we at Bill Roberts Custom Homes are ready to help you with.

7. Making Big Changes in the Middle of the Build

Once you’ve completed all the preliminary work with your custom home builder, they develop an entire schedule mapping out the build. As experts, everything is planned to order materials, arrange labor, meet deadlines, get proper permits, and all the other processes that go into building a home. Along the way, often there are opportunities to make little tweaks and changes that fine tune your home without disrupting the schedule.

But making large changes in the middle of the build can throw everything into chaos. New materials might need to be ordered and permits acquired. Big changes in the middle of production will add large amounts of additional time and expense to the build of your custom home—delaying your move-in date and enjoyment.

8. Not Communicating Clearly or Timely

As your custom home gets built, you will be updated at every step of the schedule mentioned in the previous section. It is vital that your return communication remains clear and timely. Both lack of clarity and timeliness can have a major impact on the completion date of your new home.

If a design step, for example, needs your sign-off before continuing to the next and you unnecessarily delay your approval, that will stall both the process and the progress. Likewise, if you asked for a specific type of kitchen backsplash but wasn’t clear in your communication, it would take longer for the custom home builder to pin down your choices—again delaying (and possibly confusing) everything.

Avoid Common Mistakes by Working with Bill Roberts Custom Homes

Building a custom home is a dream for many, but the above mistakes can quickly turn the experience from exciting to stressful. These errors not only delay the project but can also result in cost increases. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s crucial to work with a builder who has a strong track record of managing every detail with precision.

With a deep understanding of the custom home-building process, Bill Roberts Custom Homes excels at maximizing client satisfaction. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and client-focused approach ensures that your custom home is both a reflection of your style and a space that meets your everyday needs. Choosing a trusted partner like Bill Roberts Custom Homes can turn what is often a complex process into a smooth and rewarding journey home.

The biggest joy of having a custom home built is getting a place that’s personalized to you: your likes, your wants, and your lifestyle.

Throughout Edmond, OK, Bill Roberts Custom Homes is the name for custom homes, and has been for over 40 years, continuing the Roberts’ family tradition of building excellence stretching back generations.

All this experience means we’ve seen time and time again the many ways new homebuyers bring their own personality into their custom homes.

Our team loves guiding homebuyers through the process, finding innovative new ways for them to have the home of their dreams.

Here’s a taste of how a custom home builder like us can personalize your new home to fit your lifestyle:

1. Floor Plan Selection

Your new custom home by Bill Roberts Custom Homes begins with you picking out the best floor plan for you. Saying the floor plan is the foundation of your custom home journey sounds a bit corny, but it is true. You know how much space and what rooms your family needs. Maybe it’s an extra room for when the kids grow up and want their own spaces. Maybe it’s a multi-generation suite for grown children or older family members to live in—separate but close.

But you not only know the spaces you need to have, but also the spaces you want to have. Maybe it’s a wine cellar for your collection of rare vintages. Perhaps you want a dedicated home theater or craft studio. Finding the right floor plan is essential to ensuring your home is properly personalized to the people inside using and loving it: you and your family!

2. Windows & Doors

Windows and doors let in light and people. Windows give you ways to look out on your world from the comfort of home and doors let you invite the world inside. But they also add personality to your new home’s interiors and exteriors. A bay window says something completely different about a home than a tiny square window. And a rounded door with windows can make much more of a distinctive statement than a traditional rectangular one.

Personalizing these aspects of your new home will make the overall aesthetics match your character and provide the interaction you want with the outside. Maybe you want the front of your home to look like a big smile—we can do that. Or, perhaps, you want a wall of windows that lookout from your living room to your plentiful backyard so you can watch the kids play—we can do that too. Whatever your style and whatever you need, custom windows and doors can make all the difference.

3. Ceilings & Stairs

Height is an important dimension to any home (pun intended), but not just outside. Ceiling height in rooms can change the feel immensely. Box ceilings, for example, can change any dining room into a fancier and more formal experience. And nothing says luxury like a vaulted ceiling in the owner’s suite. That added verticality can make a bedroom feel like an airy oasis, greatly improving your relaxation and enjoyment.

And when you need to reach those extra heights, you’ll be looking to take the stairs. But the style of your staircases can create almost as much personality to your home as the rooms to which they lead. An enclosed staircase is 100% functional and might be just what you want tucked out of the way. But you might desire an open railing staircase that becomes not only a focal point in your home, but also a regal way to make an entrance!

4. Specialty Rooms & Spaces

Your custom home is a haven for your hobbies, interests, and expertise—and all of those take space. When we help you personalize your custom home, we can build those spaces right in. Perhaps you want a chef-caliber kitchen for whipping up culinary delights. Or maybe it’s an owner’s suite and bathroom that feel like they were plucked from a tropical spa. It could be a spacious mud room that you’re after to store all your outdoor gear without tracking it into the rest of your home.

You could be a model train builder and want a locomotive room, or a collector of books and desire a two-story library. Perhaps you want to turn your basement into a small tavern complete with a themed bar and snack area. The options are only limited by your imagination, and your custom home builder is here to make your dreams come true.

5. Custom Outdoor Living Space

The final area we’ll examine in this exploration of how custom home builders can personalize your new home to fit your lifestyle is the great outdoors. From custom landscaping to boost curb appeal, to unique pool shapes that can both energize and relax, your outdoor space can be created to match your needs and wants.

And when you think about personalized outdoor space, it’s a brand new box of tools than customizing inside your home. Outside, water features (as mentioned), grill stations, fire pits, gazebos, sheds, and decks are just some of the design elements you paint with. These custom outdoor living spaces make even the area surrounding your home feel like home—extending your personality to every corner of your property.

Personalize Your Home to Fit Your Lifestyle with Bill Roberts Custom Homes

Your new home isn’t just walls and ceilings: It must work for and enhance how you live your life. From the ground up, Bill Roberts Custom Homes helps you personalize your new custom home in every way that is important to you and your family. You first step to owning your personalized paradise is getting in touch. We can’t wait to build your dreams!

Hiring a custom home builder provides a number of benefits to the discerning homebuyer.

At Bill Roberts Custom Homes, we build first-class custom homes and develop luxury communities throughout Edmond, Oklahoma.

And our passion for custom homes, like the ones we’ve been building for over 35 years, means we’ve observed homeowners savor these advantages over and over.

Though the benefits of hiring a custom home builder are plentiful, here’s a list of our top 7:

1. Custom Designs with Your Favorite Floor Plan

It’s easy to look at a new home plan and figure out if the layout works with your lifestyle, family, and preferences. But normally, there are a few features that you wish were just a bit different. It could be as simple as moving a door to a different wall or as complex as relocating a laundry room to another floor. It can be… well, only your imagination can really define what it can be.

Hiring a custom home builder means you can turn those dreams into reality. You’re not trapped into a floor plan you almost love: You’re able to turn it into a home you definitely love. And Bill Roberts Custom Homes takes customizing to the next level with our online portal that lets you collaborate with our designers and builders.

2. More Personalization Options

We believe that your home should be a unique expression of who you are, what you need, and what you want. The rooms need to give you the spaces you desire and the features you need to create the perfect home for you. Often times, we’ve discovered, personalization begins with inspiration.

And that’s why we have put together some inspiration galleries. Look through them and discover the features, finishes, and spaces that matter most to you. Let them be the seeds that help you grow your vision of what your new home can be. And then work with us to draft and craft every option that will make your new home 100% you.

3. Newest Technology & Energy-Efficient Features

Innovation is a word that some might not associate with homes, but it is extremely integral. From the front door lock, to the insulation, to the HVAC, to the faucets, to the appliances, to the lighting, to even the countertops, innovation is what turns a home into an outstanding place to live. Indeed, Bill Roberts Custom Homes is always pushing boundaries to bring the latest in home innovation to your front door (quite literally).

Innovative home features in areas such as those already mentioned often have the added benefit of being more energy efficient than older counterparts. So not only will they look and work better, but you’ll also be saving energy at the same time!

4. Easier to Future-Proof

Your home should make you happy, not just today and not just tomorrow, but for a lifetime. Hiring a custom home builder provides many ways to future-proof your new investment. What that really means is the layout and all the things you don’t see behind the walls are ready to adapt to future technology.

By building your home to be more future-proof, it is perfectly poised to grow and evolve alongside you and your family. It will make it easier to upgrade to newer technologies, which will, in the end, save you quite a lot of money. And that segues into the next benefit…

5. Lower Maintenance Costs

Choosing a custom home builder will reward you with lower maintenance costs. Brand-new appliances and systems will, of course, require less upkeep than older appliances and systems. Same with more energy-efficient ones. And, as we just mentioned, your home being future-proofed will also yield lower maintenance costs.

Another way custom home builders help you save on maintenance costs is by using high-quality, durable materials. Unlike mass-produced homes that might cut corners to save on initial costs, custom builders can prioritize materials known for their longevity and resistance to wear and tear. For example, opting for premium roofing materials, high-performance windows, and durable flooring can significantly reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

6. Better Budget and Resource Management

Working with a custom home builder offers a unique opportunity to better manage of both resources and your budget. Unlike pre-built homes, you won’t be paying for features you don’t want or need. This is a more targeted approach, in a way, of making sure your budget is being spent on what matters most to you, your family, and your lifestyle.

In addition, custom home builders are able to better manage resources by sourcing materials and labor that align with the homeowner’s priorities. If sustainability is a concern, for example, more eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies can be sourced. Custom home builders also use local suppliers and contractors, which saves on transportation costs (managing both resources and budget better!) and also has the added benefit of supporting the local economy!

7. Attention to Detail with Constant Homeowner Involvement

As we mentioned in #1, Bill Roberts Custom Homes has an online portal to connect homebuyers with the entire custom home building process. From this portal, you’ll be able to view the current schedule, share progress photos with your friends and family, approve changes, and generally stay in constant communication with us.

This level of transparency and control is often lacking in other types of home construction. With our portal, you can see how every little detail matters. Change your mind on the type of light in your new dining room? You can make and approve these alterations right from the portal. This is your new home, and we want to make sure we get it just right.

Let Bill Roberts Custom Homes Build Your Dream

At Bill Roberts Custom Homes, we proudly meet you at the forefront of trends and technologies to provide the first-class service you expect from a custom home builder. We simply believe that you deserve the very best. And we’ll work hard to provide the best service, appliances, building materials, and everything else that makes building a custom home something more: all yours! Contact us today, and let’s make your dreams a reality.

When planning a custom-built home for your family, you expect the property to last a lifetime. You want to build the ultimate family home, a space that can be passed down for generations. While there is much to consider, one element that must be fully covered is a focus on the future. 

The home needs to be sustainable, efficient, and utilize forward-focused design to become a valuable asset to your family for generations.

From the Ground Up

For your home to last a lifetime, it needs a solid foundation. The process of laying the foundation needs to be forward-thinking. Attention to grading needs to be considered, as well as the soil type and climate conditions. The foundation needs to be able to withstand the regular elements of the region, including water draining away to avoid damage over the years due to flooding or frequent heavy rains.
Much attention needs to be paid to the foundation as it is the groundwork of your new home. Without a proper footing, your home could settle awkwardly or have issues which can lead to cracks or shifting of the interior and exterior of the home over time.

Framing and Roofing

The framing and roofing is also a factor that must be considered in the future thinking of a home build. The framing is important as it provides the structural integrity of the walls. Each section of the framing must be configured correctly to create the rooms in the home as well as configure other components like plumbing and HVAC. With the framing process, you will be asked certain questions such as on the layouts of closet spaces or pantries.

Also to consider at this time is the rough-in plumbing, heat, and air. It is during the early stages that the home builder will route walls throughout the home, figure out where vent stacks will go as well as connect drain lines and water supply lines. This is the work that you do not see but it is vital as it will ensure the plumbing and HVAC systems will be operational year after year.

As mentioned, the roofing is important as well. Think long-term when making your roof material choice. Some materials may be cheaper, but their life span is much shorter. Invest in a roofing material that will last for decades, protecting your home for many years to come.

Windows and Doors

The placement of your windows and doors is also an essential factor when designing your custom-built home. This process is handled in the early stages of design with your custom home builder.

You want to choose enough windows to create natural light and have them placed in the right areas for comfort and convenience. The same is said with doors. While some rooms will simply have openings from one space to the next, you want doors in private areas like bedrooms and bathrooms. Choosing these options for your home can be fun and helps you get one step closer to the completion of your new home.

Drywall and Insulation

Other factors to consider are the drywall and insulation. With the proper insulation material used, your home will see great savings on HVAC costs and be more comfortable. The insulation is added before the drywall, which is the finishing touch to the rooms of the home. Your builder can help you choose foam insulation or other types that will work well for providing comfort and energy savings in the home for many years to come.

While the drywall is going up, the finishing touches will also be made for the HVAC and plumbing systems of the home. Fixtures will be attached followed by activating the water main to ensure the property is closer to completion.

For all your home building needs, consider Bill Roberts Custom Built homes. Offering quality services, Bill Roberts can provide essential planning and construction to help you achieve your dream home.

When interviewing potential home builders, it is important to ask the right questions to ensure you are hiring the right company for the job. Below is a set of essential questions that you can ask to learn the most pertinent information on companies you are reviewing. By learning more, you can then make an informed decision before you begin your build. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, as you are the consumer and the builder needs to be ready to work for you.

For all your custom home planning needs, contact Bill Roberts Custom Homes. Easily find an option that works for your new home and the construction process can begin!

A custom home build is an excellent opportunity for new homeowners to create a space that they will love. With a new home construction, the floor plan is created based on your wants and desires. Of course, you want the space to be lovely and look a certain way, but designing your home is more than creating a pretty face, so to speak. The floor plan needs to be one that will be comfortable to live in.

If you have never built a home before, then you may not realize the time and consideration needed when creating a floor plan. This guide is what will be used to construct your home, and it needs to be precise. Learning more about designing a floor plan based on comfort and living needs is key to creating the custom home of your dreams.

Understanding the Floor Plan

A floor plan is a scaled diagram of the custom-built home. The plan will depict the entire building and show you how every room will be laid out. This includes measurements of the spaces, furniture placement, appliances, etc. Floor plan design is essential to the overall comfort and enjoyment of the home.

With a quality floor plan, you can create a nice flow between the spaces which will increase usability as well as value. By working with your contractor on the desired floor plan, you can combine your wants and needs with the know-how of the experienced professional to come up with a quality plan for your new home.

Key Characteristics of a Good Floor Plan

There are several key characteristics associated with a good floor plan that allows your home to work for you as well as have resale value. A floor plan needs to be versatile and flexible. It creates spaces you can use but also areas that can be converted in the future. A smaller bedroom can work perfectly for a child but also be converted into an office down the road. This is a prime example of how spaces can be transformed to your needs as they adapt over time.

Consider size when creating a floor plan. When designing a room or hallway, think about how many people will be in the space at one time. Make sure that there is enough room to move around comfortably and that furniture will fit nicely.

It is also essential to consider the room layout. Bedrooms should be located away from entertainment spaces like the kitchen or living area. Bathrooms should face away from areas like the dining room or living room. In today’s floor plans, the kitchen spaces are open to living areas to create a larger living space. This adds value as well as convenience for your new home.

Be Logical

While some ideas might seem awesome and perfect for your new home build, be logical in your thinking. Be open to listening to your contractor, especially if some of your ideas just won’t work. A quality contractor sees your vision from the inside out, so ideas you may have just might not be possible or unable to fit into your budget.

Start your floor plan by discussing with the contractor what you want in the home. Take time to think about your family’s day to day needs. What would make your life easier?
With customized plans based on your family, you have the best home features that will work for you. By discussing your family with a seasoned builder, you can come up with a floor plan that is not only beautiful but also comfortable to live in.

For all your custom home planning needs, contact Bill Roberts Custom Homes. Easily find an option that works for your new home and the construction process can begin!

Let’s imagine that you just hired a company to custom-build your dream home. You have a floor plan and have included features you want at a great price. Research was conducted with the contractor and you feel comfortable with their process of construction. The time has come to begin, so you sit back and wait for your dream home to come to fruition.

While this sounds perfect, it is not what you should be doing. The home construction process is a big undertaking, and you should never leave anything to chance. Focusing on quality control will ensure that your home is completed without any mistakes or shortcuts taken.

Is Your Home Builder Cutting Corners?

A home builder that cuts corners is one that will use low quality, cheap materials. The cost is affordable, which saves the builder money but can cost you the structural integrity or value in the home. You want your home to be constructed with quality materials that will stand the test of time. When a home is built correctly, with time and effort, along with the best material options, the property will be able to last for decades without issues like rotting or structural damage.

Take care to discuss the type of materials that will be used in the build with the contractor. By learning more about the materials that will be used, you can do your homework. From name-brand materials to the types of wood and concrete used, you can then decide if the builder is cutting corners and going the cheap route, or if they are using the best available materials to create a durable and robust home.

The Importance of Quality Materials

Working with quality materials is essential to the overall durability of the home. From framing to exterior materials, when the right items are used, the integrity of your home is increased. Overall, the property will be secure, designed to withstand the elements, and last a lifetime.

Take for example the framework of the property. Solid materials need to be used for every stud. If the framing is weak, the home will not have strong structural integrity. Durable materials like stone and concrete are quality material options that can ensure the property will last for decades.

A quality builder knows what he is working with and how it can be used in a new home build. With the best materials, the home is set up for success, rather than guaranteed repair work down the road.

Working with a Reputable Builder

While you can visit the building site, you cannot be on hand 24/7. You are going to miss a great deal of the construction process due to your obligations like work and family. For the home construction, you need to hire a company you can trust. To do this, be picky when it comes to finding a reputable home builder.

Ask for references! Tell potential builders that you want to learn more about their work. This can include references from previous clients as well as walking through finished homes. Ask about their contractors and who their suppliers are for materials. Do they have a good reputation in the area? By learning as much as you can, you will have a better idea as to the reputation of the company that will be working for you.

Licensing and insurance are also important. Ask the builder to supply you with information regarding their licensing and insurance. Make sure the builder is valid and able to work in your state. This shows they care about their work and are properly prepared to complete any job.

When it comes to the construction of a new home build, you want to work with someone you can trust with a solid reputation. Rely on Bill Roberts Custom Homes for your next build, to ensure that the home of your dreams is completed in the best way possible. 

When you make the critical decision to build a custom home, you expect the investment to last a lifetime. You spend a great deal of time and effort to choose your location and style of your home, and just as much dedication should be spent in choosing your home builder.

What’s it worth having the perfect home that will last for decades?

Never settle for less. Think about what you want in your custom-built home and find the right builder for the job.

Structural Integrity

One element that must be considered for a long-lasting home is structural integrity. The right materials need to be used to create the essential structural elements that will last for decades. Concrete is a common material used for the foundation construction, which is the base for the full structure of your home. Quality materials need to be used for the foundation along with the framework and other key structural elements to ensure that the building will stand the test of time. Depending on the size and scope of the home, steel cross-beams can be added to provide additional long-lasting support.

Technology

Another aspect to consider is technology. Today’s homes are becoming more automated or at least tech-friendly. What type of changes do you see occurring in your home in the future by way of tech? You can choose to install wiring in the home that has an empty conduit to make changes in the future as needed. Wiring can be placed in easy to access areas so that speaker systems, alarm systems, etc. can easily be swapped out as technology continues to advance.

Usability

When planning your custom-built home, consider the usability of every space. In older construction, homes had rooms with walls separating each space. In today’s homes, the focus is more on an open floor plan. Dining areas, living rooms, and kitchen spaces tend to be one open area. Rooms are constructed to have a dual purpose, from a guest bedroom to an office or kid’s play space. Consider the usability of each area so that you construct a home that will serve your family for decades to come.

Repairability

When it comes to the construction portion of the home, repairability needs to be considered. Plumbing pipes need to be easily accessible. The same goes for HVAC systems and electrical wiring. The contractor of your new home needs to consider how these systems will be reached and repairs provided as the installation is being conducted. This saves you time and money in the long-run as items are repaired or replaced.

Location

What should you consider when choosing the location of your new home when it comes to longevity? Will you be better off creating a home in a neighborhood or going the rural approach? Much consideration should be given to the location of your new home. Your contractor can help you with the pros and cons of various land locations so you can choose the right spot for your forever home.

Aesthetics

When planning the visual design of your home, such as flooring, paint, cabinets, countertops, tile, etc., you should consider your personal style but also how design changes over time. It is recommended that homeowners stick with neutrals or modern design, shying away from the quirky or unique if the home is to be sold in the future. However, if this home is going to be yours for a lifetime, do what you wish and enjoy it!
When it comes to a brand-new custom-built home, don’t scrimp on who you work with just to get the job done. Find a company that is willing to offer you quality service when it comes to your home build. This way, you can have the home of your dreams that will last a lifetime!

At Bill Roberts Custom Homes, a dream home build is only a consult away. Contact the top-rated home builder today to find out how you can get started planning your lifetime home.

Are you ready to stop dreaming about your ideal kitchen and instead start building it? Perhaps you have a Pinterest board chock full of ideas, or maybe you’ve even taken pen to paper and begun drawing your dream layout. With the start of a new year—a new decade—there’s no better time to take charge of your future and put your ideas into action. 

How to Build Your Dream Kitchen 

When you build a new home, you have the distinct advantage of planning and designing the kitchen of your dreams. In-house interior designers lend their expertise to help map out a highly functional layout that wows with its sophistication and attention to detail. Designing a kitchen to meet your needs and satisfy your wants—from the hardwood or tile floor beneath your feet and the custom cabinetry that reaches the ceiling to the gorgeous countertops and top-of-the-line appliances at your fingertips—is a wildly satisfying endeavor. But first, you must accomplish the all-important planning stage. Here are some ideas to keep in mind as you begin designing your dream kitchen:

Tips for Building Your Perfect Kitchen

• Consider its use. Is cooking at home important to you? Do you like to entertain? An island is perfect for accommodating a kitchen that will see a lot of activity.  
• Know your storage needs. Are you a minimalist when it comes to cooking, or do you have gadgets galore to enhance your food prep? Take stock of what you have and where it makes sense to store it all. What will you keep on the counter versus tucked away in a cabinet? How many sets of dishes do you have, and would you like to display any of them in open-air shelving? 
• Focus on functionality: Personalize your kitchen to be as user-friendly as possible. Would you rather reach or bend for your daily dishes? Stow them in a cabinet or drawer accordingly, and choose this placement to compliment the natural flow of activity in your space (glasses near the sink, for instance). Also, determine what small appliances you’ve got and ensure you’ll have adequate outlets where you plan to use them. 

Dream Kitchen Layout Designs

Unsure of what kitchen style best suits you? Read on to discover four popular trends in dream kitchen layout designs.

Modern Kitchen 

The clean lines, earthy colors, and simplicity of a modern kitchen design exude a sleek, timeless style with a minimalist vibe.

Traditional Kitchen 

Adornments reign in a traditional-style kitchen layout. From multicolored, embellished custom cabinetry; crown molding; and furniture-like pieces to timeless backsplashes and luxurious countertops, this style is a mainstay in interior design.

Transitional Kitchen

A mesh of modern and traditional design elements delivers the signature mix-and-match style of a transitional kitchen. This unique look is achieved by blending the classic, clean lines of modern style with the elegant touches of a traditional design.

French Kitchen

The chic French-style kitchen conjures the Old World charm of the French countryside, featuring rustic accents and soft palettes that incorporate blue and green hues. Custom cabinetry that resembles furniture and crown-molding-studded oven hoods round out this sophisticated look.

Design Your Dream Kitchen with Bill Roberts Custom Homes

Bill Roberts Custom Homes is Edmond, Oklahoma’s, premier custom home builder, and with good reason. For the past 40 years, we’ve delivered exquisite luxury homes featuring stunning, innovative kitchens to satisfied homeowners. Ready to design your dream kitchen? Contact us today to learn about our time-tested process and let us partner with you to make your dream kitchen design a reality.

House Architecture Trends in Oklahoma

Curious about what architectural styles are trending in Edmond, Oklahoma as we begin a new decade? Contemporary and modern styles continue to shine for their timeless touches. Many architectural plans embrace a transitional style, bringing together modern and traditional elements, and many home builders continue to deliver elegance and class with new homes featuring European flare. Read on to discover the architectural style that best suits your tastes.

Contemporary and Modern Floor Plans

More than a mere trend, contemporary and modern floor plans have cemented themselves as mainstays in architectural style. These styles impart a mid-twentieth century tone and focus on form and function with a commitment to earthy palettes and clean lines, imparting a minimalistic vibe.

Transitional New Home Style

The cohesive meshing of modern and traditional architectural styles is what interior designers have dubbed “transitional.” This new spin on a classic look features neutral colors, soft furnishings, and clean-lined architecture, offering a style that feels equal parts masculine and feminine. This trend highlights a fresh take on a familiar style, employing limited but impactful accessories such as art and textural elements.

European New Home Style

“Grand,” “elegant,” “ornately detailed”—these are words that best describe European architecture. Drawing from Old World charms of the French countryside and Tuscany, new homes built in this timeless architectural style brim with character, often featuring sloped roofs, brick or stone exteriors, shutters, and archways.

New Home Floor Plan Trends in Oklahoma

Elevated lifestyle is at the heart of new-home floor plan trends in Edmond, Oklahoma. From spacious master suites and gourmet kitchens to theaters and outdoor living spaces, these hottest trends for new builds bring luxury to everyday living.

2 Master Bedrooms

Master bedroom suites are havens from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These oversized rooms feature spacious walk-in closets customized with organizational built-ins and private spa-like bathrooms, complete with elegant standing showers, luxurious soaking tubs, and his-and-her vanities.

Theaters / Media Rooms

In today’s advanced technological world, media rooms are gaining popularity in newly built homes. Featuring built-in surround sound, ideal lighting, and comfortable seating for all, media rooms deliver a theater-like experience in the comfort of your home.

Wine Rooms

For the discerning homeowner, a wine room instantly adds class to a custom floor plan, offering additional space for proper wine storage. One of the newer trends to capture attention in the new-home sphere, wine rooms are becoming the standard in custom-built luxury homes.

Gourmet Kitchens

The trend toward gourmet kitchens is charting a new course for the home cook. Gourmet kitchens feature top-of-the-line appliances, stunning countertops, and loads of storage space within custom cabinetry. Often a center point in an open floor plan, this space has become a natural hub for family time and entertaining.

Outdoor Living Areas

The latest floor plan trend garnering homebuilders’ attention is the outdoor living area. Blurring the boundary between inside and out—bringing the outdoors inside, and vice versa—instantly maximizes a home’s living space.

The latest home trends in Edmond, Oklahoma cater to the homeowner with luxurious tastes. Whatever your style, a custom-built home from Bill Roberts Custom Homes will satisfy every architectural detail you desire.

Custom home builder Bill Roberts Custom Homes in Edmond, Oklahoma, delivers sophisticated luxury homes with the style and unparalleled craftsmanship to match discerning tastes. We want to partner with you to make your custom home dreams a reality. Which style best suits your tastes? Contact us today to begin your journey toward custom homeownership.

When it comes to building a new home in Edmond, site selection is key. Once you’ve chosen your dream floor plan, it’s time to explore the lots that will best match your lifestyle. Funneling your choices from broad to specific is a smart strategy to determine the best site for your new home. 

Read on and discover how a few simple questions can direct you to the ideal property for your new home:

Edmond Neighborhoods 

First, you must decide the neighborhood where you’d most desire to build your home. Bill Roberts Custom Homes builds exquisite luxury homes in many neighborhoods throughout Edmond, including lush, high-end Waterstone; secluded, tranquil Sweetwater; low-maintenance, gated Camden Park; and heavily wooded, spacious Cypress Point Estates. To determine which neighborhood best meets your lifestyle, consider its amenities. Do you prefer the expansive manor lots and Central Park of Annecy? Or is the golf course and country club at Turnberry in Oak Tree a better match? From fitness centers and clubhouses to parks, pools, and ponds, each Bill Roberts neighborhood delivers unique charm and luxury.

Lot Location in Neighborhood 

You’ve chosen a neighborhood that best suits your lifestyle—great news! Now it’s time to further narrow the scope, giving consideration to your home’s location within the neighborhood. Ask yourself: 

• Do you desire the privacy of a cul-de-sac? 
• Do you commute? If so, a site within close proximity to major roads might be advantageous. 
• Do you have children in school? If so, perhaps a lot near the school will enhance your family’s quality of life. 
• Do you plan to frequent the recreation center? Maybe a site nearby will save you some travel time each day. 

Whether you choose a lot in the front of the neighborhood, one tucked in the back, or a perfect spot somewhere in the middle, be sure to give consideration to your day-to-day activities and how a lot’s location may enhance your life’s flow.

Site Situation 

Finally, once you’ve filtered your lot choices down to a few options, there are some additional questions to ask yourself to decide which will ultimately make you most content on a daily basis. 

• Which cardinal direction will the home face? A south-facing home benefits from passive solar heating and maximum natural lighting. A south-facing driveway means snow will melt from its surface quicker in winter. 
• Does a corner lot appeal to you? These are typically bigger, but they also bring two distinct flows of traffic. 
• Are views available? This important consideration includes not only surrounding terrain but also access to sunrises and sunsets.

Choosing a lot for your new custom home is an exciting part of the home-building process. By keeping a few considerations in mind during your search, you’ll pick a spot that is suitable for your lifestyle, which in turn will ensure long-term satisfaction with your new home. 

Over the past four decades, Bill Roberts Custom Homes has built nine luxurious neighborhoods encompassing the Edmond, Oklahoma, landscape. From maintenance-free lawns at The Lakes of Cross Timbers to half-acre estates in Annecy, each neighborhood features amenities to enhance every lifestyle. Ready to build the custom home of your dreams? Contact us today to find the perfect lot for your life’s next chapter. 

The Kimberlings had been looking for a new home for nearly two years in the busy Oklahoma City market. It was tough for them to find exactly what they wanted — a place where they could simplify their lifestyle all while enjoying luxury amenities and outdoor living spaces.

So, when Nancy and her husband Kim came to visit a friend in the new Camden Park community in North Oklahoma City, they decided to take a look at one of the model homes there. As soon as they walked into the model, they knew this community would be their new forever home! 

What appealed most to the Kimberlings about building their own home was the personalized touches they were able to incorporate. From the beautiful open kitchen/dining/living space to customized french doors for their study, they truly felt like they had gotten everything they wanted.

Kim and Nancy were finally able to downsize from a larger house, all while keeping their furniture, and building the perfect home for the next chapter of their lives!

We are honored to have been featured by OKC Lifestyle Magazine as they recall the Kimberlings’ home buying journey.  

If you are inspired by the Kimberlings’ story, you should explore our beautiful communities and build a home of your own! At Bill Roberts, we support you through the entire build and design process — start to finish. Your happiness and satisfaction motivate us, every day. Contact us today and create the life you want to live!

Bathroom Design

Have you ever surfed the web, swooning over dream bathroom ideas? The answer is likely “yes.” The internet certainly has no shortage of images of drool-worthy master bathrooms—sometimes so gorgeous they seem unattainable.

Dream Bathroom Designs

Ready for exciting news? Any one of these dream bathrooms can be yours. How? Well, that’s just one of the many benefits of building a new home. When you build a new home, your imagination is free to explore all the possibilities of what the home—and master bathroom—can be. When you work with Bill Roberts Custom Homes, our team of interior design specialists help bring your big ideas to fruition. 

As you design your dream bathroom, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Focus on function – A bathroom should be beautiful, but consideration should first be given to ensuring it functions as the workstation it truly is. Proper clearance for easy movement and flow throughout the room, adequate storage space, and a sufficient number of conveniently located outlets are at the top of the list.
• Splurge for spa-like luxury – Once a bathroom’s functionality is assured, it’s time to prioritize that which brings peace and relaxation. A soaking tub, a steam room, wired-in speakers, plush linens—any of these deliver sanctuary from the everyday.
• Make it personal – It’s the little things that make a dream bathroom so inspiring. Whether it’s a beautiful built-in bench in the shower, a modern Japanese toilet, or custom cabinetry, follow your path to personalization and delight in your perfect-for-you space daily.
• Choose wisely – When selecting the materials to be used in your bathroom, consider not only their appearance but also their inherent qualities. Know how tiles or stone will hold up over time, how easy they are to clean, and how slippery they become when wet. 
• Flaunt your fixtures – Faucets and other hardware are perfect accents to add style to a bathroom. Ideally, consider the look and finish of the pieces, but also keep in mind the ease of cleaning. 
• Make use of mirrors – Natural, ambient light enhances any space, and the bathroom is no exception. Mirrors are an excellent way to add style to the room and also to maximize the potential for natural light. 
• Light it right – Whether you choose chic hanging pendants, eye-catching vanity lights, or sleek sconces, a well-selected light fixture can elevate the style in a bathroom. Illuminate on a dimmer switch with incandescent bulbs, which provide a soft, flattering hue.
• Soften the edges with plants and flowers – A vase with a beautiful, fresh bouquet of flowers or a pot of greenery can add a pop of color and softness to the hardscapes of a bathroom. 

Your master bath is a room in which you begin and end every day. It is a place that demands functionality but thrives with personalized luxury. There’s only one thing more exciting than designing a dream bathroom—and that’s enjoying the one you own. So, what’s on your dream bathroom wish list?

At Bill Roberts Custom Homes, we want to make your bathroom dreams a reality. Our top-notch interior design specialists are eager to work with you every step of the way to ensure the home you buy is a home you’ll love. For nearly four decades, we’ve helped families in Edmond, Oklahoma, attain their dreams of luxury homeownership. An elevated lifestyle awaits you—take the next step toward the dream bathroom you deserve and contact us today.