If you’re considering building a custom home in Tucson, chances are you’ve heard it can be overwhelming. And, well, it can be. But it doesn’t have to be! My job is to take the complexity out of the custom home building process and turn it into something transparent, empowering, and even enjoyable.

Here’s what it really looks like to build a home with Sanctuary — from site feasibility to move-in (and far beyond).

Step One: Site Feasibility & Early Involvement

Ideally, the process of working with Sanctuary starts way earlier than most expect — when you’re just starting to look at land, or right after you’ve purchased a lot. In fact, the best time to interview and select your builder is right now — not after you’ve already drawn up plans. Too many people bring me finished architectural plans right before the construction process and say, “What will this cost?” The answer is usually, “More than you expected.” If we build the team early, we can shape the home around your budget and vision from the start, not after the fact.

I begin with a full site visit and feasibility study: looking at topography, soil types, washes, hydrology, and zoning. A lot might have stunning views but require costly retaining walls. Another might have perfect access but drainage issues. My job as your custom home builder is to help you weigh those pros and cons and create a clear site plan.

Step Two: Design & Pre-Construction Planning

Once you’ve chosen to move forward, we sign a pre-construction agreement and assemble your custom building team. That’s when we bring in the architect, interior designer, engineers, and — depending on the site preparation needed for your lot — maybe a geotechnical firm specialist or hydrologist.

I’m in every pre-construction meeting and architectural design meeting, not just as a bystander, but as your advocate! I’m helping make sure your vision is realistic, your budget stays intact, and that all the parts and people stay aligned.

I also work with your lender and guide you through the Design Review Committee (DRC) part of the custom home construction process, which can be a beast in some communities.

I invest a lot of time in this early phase because I believe it sets the tone for everything that follows. The foundation for a smooth build is built in the design phase!

Step Three: Budgeting That Actually Works

I don’t believe in giving you a firm number too soon — because when drawings change (and they always do), that number becomes meaningless. Instead, we develop pricing in three waves:

Conceptual pricing — broad strokes while we’re still waving our arms around on site
Design development pricing — as the vision takes shape
Final proposal — after blueprints are complete

By the time we hit that last number, it’s no longer a surprise — it’s confirmation. And by then, you’ve already made the key decisions that determine where the budget lands.

Step Four: Construction Phases — The Emotional Rollercoaster

When construction begins, so does the real adventure. Most homeowners feel a high when the walls go up, then frustration when things slow during mechanical work, electrical work, and plumbing (MEP) work — the part where you feel like “nothing is happening,” even though everything is happening.

I prepare you for all the ups and downs. You’ll get weekly communication via update emails, a minimum of five major on-site meetings, and unlimited access for texts, calls, or whatever communication works best for you. Some clients want check-ins every week; others just want milestone updates. I tailor the journey of building a home to you!

Step Five: Proactive Warranty & Long-Term Care

Most builders wrap up and say, “Call me if something breaks.” I don’t work that way!

Before move-in, we do a punch list walkthrough. Then we follow up with quality checks at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years — with check-ins beyond that as needed.

I’ve handled light fixtures years later, helped solve irrigation issues post-move-in, and stayed connected to clients long after their housewarming party. I build homes for people I genuinely care about — and staying connected is a part of that!

Step Six: Support, Not Sales Pressure

Some people are nervous about the custom process — and I get it. There’s a lot at stake. My role isn’t to push; it’s to guide.

Sometimes I tell people, “Now isn’t the right time.” I’ve stayed in touch with clients for seven years before breaking ground on their dream home. When the time is right, they’re ready — and they know I’ve had their back all along.

This is a relationship business, not a sales game. And I treat every client like they’ll be part of the Sanctuary family for years to come — because they are!

Are you a first time custom home builder? Check out this blog for more info!

The Bottom Line

The custom home building process shouldn’t feel like a mystery or a gamble. When done right — with transparency, teamwork, and trust — it’s one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever take.

If you're considering building a custom home in Tucson and want a builder who’ll walk every step with you — from raw land to long-term care — I’d love to connect.

Reach out today and let’s build something better together.

The Custom Home Building Process in Tucson: A Step-by-Step Overview