BLOGS

From Permits to Punch Lists – The Final Four Steps to Your Forever Home

Welcome back, future homeowner! If you enjoyed Part 1 of our homebuying saga (and didn’t break out in hives from all the flooring choices), you’re already halfway to living the dream. Now it's time for the grand finale—the final four steps that will take you from hopeful buyer to official homeowner with keys in hand and a welcome mat out front. Let’s dive into Part 2…

Step Four: Mortgage Mayhem – Lock It Down

Time to talk mortgages—everyone’s favorite adulting milestone.

Within 10 days of signing the Agreement of Sale, you’ll need to apply for a mortgage. But don’t worry, you won’t have to wander the financial wilderness alone. Your Prime Custom Builders sales rep has a trusty list of reputable mortgage companies we’ve worked with before (and who won't ghost you after one phone call).

Heads up! Before you lock in a rate, check with us first. Your settlement date is a projected one, and we don’t want any timeline issues. (We love surprises, just not the expensive kind.)

Prime Pro Tip: When in doubt, breathe deep and let your sales rep be your guide. Mortgages are confusing, but so are IKEA instructions—and you’ve made it through those before.

Step Five: Scheduling of Settlement – The Big Calendar Moment

You’ve got your mortgage in motion, and the house framing is going up—time to pencil in the big day!

About 3–4 weeks after framing begins, we’ll schedule a tentative settlement date. Then, six weeks before your new home is officially finished, you’ll get written confirmation of the actual settlement date.

Oh, and if you’re also selling your current home (because you're leveling up in life), make sure to loop in your agent with this info. We like everyone to be on the same page—and same page = less chaos.

Step Six: Pre-Settlement Inspection & Orientation – The Home Reveal

It’s orientation day—but instead of boring slideshows and bagels, you get a personal tour of your brand-new home.

This usually takes place on the day of settlement. During your walk-through, you’ll jot down any little quirks, fixes, or final touch-ups that need some TLC. We’ll take care of everything within 30 days after settlement. It’s our way of making sure your happily-ever-after starts off on the right foot.

Prime Pro Tip: Bring a notepad, your phone camera, and maybe a friend with a good eye. This is your chance to nitpick (politely).

Step Seven: The One-Year Punch List – The Anniversary Gift

One year after settlement, when you’re finally unpacked and know which light switch goes to what, it’s time to send in your One-Year Punch List.

Anything that needs adjusting, fixing, or just some extra love? Write it down. Our customer service rep will reach out to schedule any needed service appointments and help keep your home in tip-top shape.

Because we don’t just build houses—we build homes that stay awesome.

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You Did It! Welcome Home!

Whether this is your first home or your fifth, the process doesn’t have to feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. With Prime Custom Builders, you're not just buying a house—you’re joining a community of happy homeowners who started exactly where you are now.

We’ll be here every step of the way—with blueprints in hand, caffeine in system, and the occasional dad joke ready to go.

Ready to start your homeownership journey (or recommend us to your favorite cousin)? Give us a call or stop by. We’ve got your dream home on deck—and we can’t wait to hand over the keys.

By Prime Custom Builders Staff 7-1-2025