Why Choose Us?
What Makes Building with Buffum Different
- Fixed-price confidence: Once we finalize plans and specs, your construction contract is fixed so you’re protected from price swings.
- Simple online portal: Track schedules, approvals, change orders, photos, and messages in one place, anytime.
- Your lot or ours: Pick from our inventory of homesites or have us build on land you already own.
- Flexible financing: Pay cash, bring a construction loan, or use Buffum Homes financing. We’ll also introduce preferred lenders when you’re ready.
- Local craftsmanship and award‑winning results: Proudly building in and around Grand Rapids with trusted trade partners.
- Move‑in peace of mind: A comprehensive one‑year warranty and responsive service team stand behind your home.
Ready to Get Started?
Our 7-Step Process
01
Meet & Dream
What You’ll Do: Share how you live, what you love, and your target investment.
What We’ll Do: Talk through suitable plans, custom options, site improvements, and a rough budget range. If needed, we’ll start with an Architectural Services Agreement for custom design.
What You Get: Alignment on scope, priorities, timeline, and next steps.
02
Design & Planning
What You’ll Do: Walk lots with us (or introduce your own), review concepts, and give feedback.
What We’ll Do: Develop or tailor floor plans to fit your property and budget. Iterate together through revisions until it’s right.
What You Get: Approved plans and specifications ready for final pricing.
03
Final Pricing & Contracts
What You’ll Do: Review our detailed scope of work and allowances.
What We’ll Do: Lock in a fixed price and target completion date based on your approved plans.
What You Get: A signed construction agreement with clear expectations.
04
Financing
What You’ll Do: Choose your route—cash, construction loan, or Buffum Homes financing. If you’re selling a home, we can help with that too.
What We’ll Do: Coordinate with your lender and keep documents flowing.
What You Get: Funding in place so we can schedule the start of construction.
05
Pre-Construction
What You’ll Do: Meet your Project Manager and get portal access.
What We’ll Do: Pull permits, notify vendors, order long‑lead items, and lock pricing. We’ll publish your pre‑construction schedule and selection deadlines in the portal.
What You Get: A ready‑to‑go start date with materials and people lined up.
06
Construction & Selections
What You’ll Do: Make your finish selections with our Selections Coordinator and enjoy milestone walk‑throughs.
What We’ll Do: Build your home—footings through final punch—while keeping you updated with photos, messages, and on‑site meetings. Typical build time is 6–10 months from groundbreaking, depending on plan and season.
What You Get: A completed home that matches your plans, budget, and expectations.
- Footings
- Poured walls
- Backfill
- Framing
- Roofing
- Siding
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Rough inspections
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Trim + built‑ins
- Interior paint
- Countertops
- Flooring + tile
- Finish Plumbing
- Finish Electrical/HVAC
- Final clean
- Paint touch‑ups
- Quality walk‑through
- Quality punch list
07
Closing, Move-In & Warranty
What You’ll Do: Final walkthrough and receive your certificate of occupancy, closing docs, and keys!
What We’ll Do: Review systems, warranties, and service process. Then we’re here for anything you need throughout your first year.
What You Get: Move-in day! Plus peace of mind backed by our one-year warranty.
Your Dream Home Is Closer Than You Think
Imagine walking through the front door of a home designed just for you. We’ll guide you from the first conversation to the moment you turn the key—every detail handled, every step exciting.
We’re scheduling new builds now. Secure your spot on our calendar and take the first step toward move-in day.
FAQs
How soon can I get started?
As soon as you’re ready. Design and financing steps can begin right away, and we’ll provide a realistic start date based on permits and materials.
Do we need land first?
Not necessarily. We maintain a healthy inventory of homesites and can also help you find the perfect lot—or build on yours.
Can I customize the design of my home?
Absolutely. We can modify any of our plans or design a new one from scratch.
Do we have to use your lenders?
No. You’re free to choose. We’ll also share preferred lenders who understand new‑construction timelines and typically offer competitive rates.
What if we have a house to sell?
No problem! We hold a real estate license, so we can help you sell your home at a discounted rate. This means you’ll maximize your earnings from the sale!
How do selections work?
You’ll have clear deadlines, curated options, and one‑on‑one help from our vendors. Everything is tracked in the portal to keep decisions on schedule.
What happens after we move in?
You’ll have a one‑year comprehensive warranty and an easy way to submit service requests. Our team will take great care of you.