Ready to move into your dream home sooner? In this episode, we reveal expert tips and insider strategies to help you fast-track your custom home build without sacrificing quality. Discover how to streamline the pre-construction and construction processes, avoid common delays, and make smart decisions that can cut your build time by up to 40%. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, these actionable insights will help you bring your vision to life faster and more efficiently. Tune in to learn how to navigate key decisions, optimize your build, and get your custom home project completed on schedule!

Learn from the mistakes of others! In this episode, we delve into the story of a failed custom home build, highlighting the common pitfalls and challenges that led to its downfall. Hear firsthand accounts of budget overruns, contractor issues, design flaws, and more. Discover the crucial takeaways and practical advice to help you avoid these mistakes in your own custom home project. Tune in to ensure your dream home becomes a reality, not a nightmare.

Keywords: failed custom home build, custom home pitfalls, home building challenges, budget overruns, contractor issues, design flaws, home building advice, avoid home build mistakes, custom home project tips, successful home construction.

Welcome to Building With Breven, where we navigate the intricate world of custom home building to empower you with the knowledge you need! 🏡💡 In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the often mystifying realm of pricing in the custom home building process.

Join us as we unravel the secrets and unveil the price tricks employed in the industry. From hidden fees to under bids, we've got you covered. Discover how to navigate the complexities of custom home building costs and gain insights that will empower you to make informed decisions.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

1️⃣ Low Allowances

2️⃣ Low Bid on a Cost Plus Contract

3️⃣ Misquoting The Details

4️⃣ Cost Escalation Clauses

Tune in to this eye-opening episode and take control of your custom home building journey! Don't let pricing tricks catch you off guard—empower yourself with the insights you need to create the home of your dreams without breaking the bank.

Subscribe now to Building With Breven for more expert insights into the world of custom home building, and remember, knowledge is the key to a successful and stress-free building experience. 🛠️🏠✨ #CustomHomeBuilding #HomeConstruction #BudgetTips #PodcastEpisode #HomeBuildingCosts

In episode 14 of the Building With Breven podcast, we break down the pressing question "Is now a good or bad time to build a custom home?".

We use graphs and tables to present factual data and ultimately answer this question from an unbiased perspective.

Listen to this episode if you are hesitant on starting the custom home building process due to external fears.

Supporting data for this episode:

https://themortgagereports.com/61853/30-year-mortgage-rates-chart#loan-purpose

https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/WPUIP2311001

https://www.rubyhome.com/blog/average-length-homeownership/#:~:text=The%20typical%20U.S.%20homeowner%20spends,of%20the%20home%2C%20and%20more.

In episode 13 of the Building With Breven podcast, we welcome special guest Steve Iltis. Steve is a residential home designer/architect. Tune in to this episode if you're stuck at the floor plan stage and need some guidance for your new custom home. Steve is a master at transforming future homeowner's thoughts and dreams into 2D buildable plans.

Check out Steve's content and information here:

Steve Iltis

www.steveshannondesign.com

www.txhouseplans.com

Phone: 713.598.1150 
Email: steve@steveshannondesign.com

In episode 12 of the Building With Breven podcast, we cover the highs and lows of change orders. Don't miss these tips before discussing change orders with your custom home builder.

In episode 11 of the Building With Breven podcast, the Breven Homes duo are back and discussing construction management software. In particular, they discuss the benefits of a professional builder that utilizes a construction management software and how these benefits help YOU the client/homeowner.

In episode 10 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Mike dive into weatherization and energy efficiency. While this episode covers a little bit of building science, it's essential knowledge to ensure you build the most weather and energy efficient custom home.

In episode 9 of the Build With Breven podcast we take a deep dive into Preliminary Building Agreements. Be sure to listen to this episode as you're selecting a builder.

Are you looking for ways to reduce your custom home budget? Want a more efficient home? Don't miss this episode where we break down "Value Engineering" topics and really dig into this industry buzz word.

In episode 7 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Steven dive into custom home building contracts. Listen along as they cover the 2 main types of builder contracts, as well as the pros and cons of each.

This episode is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult with a qualified legal professional before signing any contracts.

On week 6 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Steven present 10 thought provoking questions you don't want to miss. Be sure to listen to this podcast before you finalize a builder and sign a building contract.

Are you planning a new custom home build? Discover the must-have smart home features that will transform your living experience! In this episode, we explore the top 10 smart home technologies to integrate into your new home design. From automated lighting and security systems to energy-efficient solutions and smart kitchens, we cover the latest innovations that bring convenience, safety, and efficiency to your everyday life. Tune in for expert insights, practical tips, and a vision of the ultimate smart home. Don't miss out on creating a home that’s future-ready!

Keywords: smart home features, custom home build, automated lighting, smart security, energy-efficient home, smart kitchen, home automation, future-ready home, new home design, top smart technologies.

Enjoy this week's episode as we address how to select a custom home builder. We start from the beginning and cover where to find custom home builders, best ways to vet each company, first impressions, understanding preliminary pricing, and ultimately how to trust your instincts when making this massive and crucial decision.

In Episode 4 we welcome special guest, expert builder, and our father (Mike). If you're searching for a lot/land for your custom home build this is the episode for you! We break down what to look for as you hone in on a location and specific lots. Be sure to listen for the acronym T-U-T-S as a helpful reminder in your land search.

In Episode 3 we take the daunting process of building a custom home and break it down into 10 steps. From the initial idea of building custom to the closing day, we talk through each step so you're aware of what to expect. Listen until the end for a rough timeline of each step and the entire process.

1. Decide a custom home is right for you
2. Select a builder
3. Purchase a lot
4. Design with an architect + builder + designer
5. Preliminary Building Agreement (PBA)
6. Building Agreement/Contract
7. Obtain financing
8. Permitting + Approvals
9. Construction
10. Closing/Handover

Bonus: Move-in and Warranty

Thinking about building a custom home? In this second episode of Building With Breven, we break down the essential topics you need to understand before starting your home-building journey.

We cover:
✅ What defines a true custom home
✅ The design + build process explained
✅ How long it really takes to build a custom home
✅ Key financial considerations for budgeting and funding your build
✅ And much more!

Whether you're in the early planning stages or just curious about the process, this episode gives you the foundational knowledge to make informed decisions.

🎧 Tune in now and get one step closer to building your dream home!

#CustomHomeBuilding #HomeConstruction #DreamHome #BuildingProcess #DesignBuild #HomeFinancing #BuildingWithBreven

Join Bryan and Steven, with Breven Homes, as they kick off their new podcast called "Building With Breven: The Ultimate Guide to Building A Custom Home". Throughout this podcast they will breakdown the often overwhelming process of building a custom home. New episodes will be posted weekly as they interview industry experts and provide their own experience and insights into the custom home building world.

If you're a listener that's interested in building a custom home, this podcast is one you won't want to miss. Avoid the pitfalls and navigate the custom home building process like an experienced pro.

7 Essential Steps to Building Your Custom Home | Expert Guide (Ep. 22)

In Episode 22 of Building with Breven, host Steven Byrnes is joined by special guest Mike to detail the 7 Essential Steps of Building a Custom Home. Discover expert insights on:

Phase 1:

• Lot Preparation

• Foundation Construction

• Framing, Cornice & Decking

• Mechanical Systems Installation

Phase 2:

• Drywall Installation

• Interior Trim Work

• Final Punch-Out & Closing (Key Handover)

Avoid costly pitfalls and confidently navigate your home-building journey. Subscribe, share, and visit buildingwithbreven.com for more expert home-building resources.

Follow us on Instagram: @brevenhomes

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to episode 21 of the Building With Breven podcast, where Steven & Bryan dive into the realm of healthy homes. In this episode, we unveil seven crucial topics every homeowner should consider for a healthier custom home build.

1. Air Quality Optimization: Learn about cutting-edge technologies and strategies to ensure your indoor air quality is pristine, promoting respiratory health and overall well-being for you and your family.

2. Natural Lighting Solutions: Discover how strategic design choices can maximize natural light exposure, fostering a brighter and more energizing atmosphere while reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

3. Energy Efficiency (Low Air Leakage = less pollutants): Discover how we use energy efficient products and practices to improve the livability of our homes.

4. Moisture Control: Learn how we control the water in and around your home to prevent moisture related issues.

5. Water Filtration Systems: Take a deep dive into advanced water filtration systems, ensuring that the water you use for drinking, bathing, and cooking is pure and free from contaminants, safeguarding your family's health.

6. Healthier Home Building Products: Uncover the latest innovations in healthy home building products that also contribute to a more sustainable and comfortable living environment.

7. Smart Home Products: Finally, scratch the surface of the smart home products as we discuss few of the many available products on the market.

   
   

   Bonus: We discuss the importance of creating dedicated spaces within your custom home that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and holistic wellness, fostering a balanced and rejuvenating lifestyle.

Join us as we explore these essential topics, empowering you to make informed decisions for a healthier and happier custom home build. Tune in now and embark on the journey to a brighter, healthier future for you and your loved ones.

Don't forget to subscribe to Building With Breven for more insightful episodes on building the home of your dreams while prioritizing your health and well-being.

In episode 20 of the Building With Breven podcast, Bryan and Steven dig into the topic of builder pricing. Have you ever wondered how builders price such complex custom homes? With so many variables and moving parts it's no surprise that 3 different builders could all have drastically different prices for the same custom home. Tune in to this episode to learn what to look for and what questions to ask, in regards to pricing, as you narrow down builders for your custom home build.

Welcome to Building With Breven, where we embark on an exciting exploration of the intricate and thrilling journey from envisioning your dream home to the exhilarating moment you finally step through the front door. In this episode, we're delving deep into the nuances of the path from custom home conception to move-in day, unraveling the secrets and insights that can transform your vision into reality.

Join our hosts Steven and Bryan, seasoned experts in the realm of custom home construction, as they guide you through the essential steps, considerations, and insider tips that will empower you on this remarkable adventure. From the initial spark of inspiration to selecting the perfect architectural design, navigating the maze of permits and regulations, and collaborating with skilled professionals, we leave no stone unturned.

Discover the crucial decisions that will shape your dream home, from choosing the right materials to incorporating sustainable and cutting-edge technologies.

Our featured guests include renowned architects, builders, and interior designers who share their expertise, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions at every stage. Whether you're a first-time home builder or seasoned veteran, this episode is a treasure trove of information that caters to all levels of expertise.

Tune in to Building With Breven and embark on a captivating voyage through the labyrinth of custom home construction. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with the wisdom and confidence to turn your dream home into a tangible masterpiece. Don't miss out on this indispensable guide that transforms aspirations into addresses – subscribe now and let the journey begin!

In episode 18 of the Building With Breven podcast we are joined by Addison Oaks, owner of Addison Social Co. Addison and Steven answer the most frequently asked questions that we receive from our social media accounts. These questions address the following:

Do custom home builders build on my lot or theirs?

Difference between a custom home builder and a volume/production home builder?

How to choose a custom home builder?

How to set client's expectations properly every step of the way?

How does custom home financing work?

Please let us know if you like this episode format and perhaps we'll do more like this in the future. If you have any questions you'd like to ask the Building With Breven team, please send them through our social media accounts on Instagram (@breven_homes) or Facebook (@brevenhomes).

A huge thank you to Addison Social Co for joining us on this podcast episode. Addison has been a social media manager for 5 years and provides her clients with proven social media strategies, and executes on those strategies, to elevate their business and brand. You can find out more about Addison Social Co and support her business by reaching out and following her on:

Instagram: @addisonsocial.co

TikTok: @addisonsocialco

Welcome to Building With Breven! In this episode 17, we're delving into the key strategies for financing your custom home build. Our experts, Steven and Bryan, share invaluable insights to guide you through the financial aspects of turning your dream home into a reality.

Discover proven tactics to evaluate + select the right financing options, and navigate the loan application process seamlessly. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or an experienced homeowner, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions at every step.

Subscribe now to Building With Breven and gain the expertise needed to embark on your custom home journey with confidence. Don't miss out on these actionable tips that can save you time, money, and stress. Tune in and take the first step toward financing your dream home build successfully!

Listen along to episode 16 of the Building With Breven podcast, where we discuss all things in the process of custom home building. We take a builder's approach to educate our listeners so they're well informed when making decisions regarding their own custom home build.

In episode 16 we dive into the topic of builder value and how to compare one builder's value to another. With the help of Alex Hormozi's value equation we're able to make this a tangible comparison between builders. Although it's still not an apples to apples comparison when evaluating multiple builders, our hope is that this value equation helps. Link to Alex Hormozi's value equation for easy reference.

https://www.acquisition.com/training/offers/value-equation

https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_webp,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F420c3be4-1db4-4edd-93cd-1c8a8312235d_1200x628.png

Thinking about building your own custom home? In this episode, we explore whether a DIY custom home build is truly possible and what it takes to succeed. We break down the pros and cons, key skills needed, and potential challenges faced when taking on a project of this scale. From managing permits and contractors to budgeting and design, find out if going the DIY route is right for you—or if hiring professionals is the smarter choice.

Keywords: DIY custom home build, build your own home, custom home project, DIY home building challenges, self-build home, home construction advice, manage home build, home building skills, hiring contractors vs DIY, custom home tips.

Hidden costs in custom home building can surprise homeowners! Don't start construction until you hear this! In this eye-opening episode of "Building With Breven," we reveal the top 4 hidden costs that can blow your custom home budget. From unexpected site work to surprising permit fees, we're uncovering the financial pitfalls that catch many homeowners off guard.

What You'll Learn:

• Why land preparation could cost you up to $50,000 more than you planned
• The truth about permit and impact fees in Central Texas municipalities
• How utility connections can drain your budget (and the $10,000 surprise you need to know about)
• The design changes that could skyrocket your costs mid-construction

Featuring expert insights and real-life examples, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering building a custom home in Central Texas. Don't let hidden costs derail your dream home project – arm yourself with the knowledge to build smart and stay on budget.Subscribe now and join us as we demystify the custom home building process and help you avoid costly surprises. Your dream home awaits – let's build it right!

#CustomHomeBuildingTips #CentralTexasHomes #HiddenCosts #DreamHomeBuilding #ConstructionBudget

🏡 How Will Tariffs & a Recession Affect Custom Home Building?

In this episode of Building With Breven, we dive into two major economic factors that could shape the custom home-building industry: tariffs and a possible recession. If you're planning to build a home in 2025 or beyond, understanding these trends is critical for budgeting, material costs, and project timelines.

🔍 Key topics we cover:
✅ How rising tariffs could impact the cost of materials like lumber, steel, and imported finishes
✅ The likelihood of a recession and what it means for home financing, interest rates, and demand
✅ Strategies to protect your budget and lock in pricing before costs escalate
✅ What builders and homeowners should prepare for in the coming months

🎧 Whether you're a future homeowner, builder, or investor, this episode gives you the insights needed to navigate uncertainty and make smart decisions.

📲 Subscribe now to stay ahead of the trends in custom home construction!

#CustomHomeBuilding #HomeConstruction #HousingMarket2025 #Tariffs #Recession #HomeBuildingCosts #BuildingWithBreven

Lot Prep Masterclass: Essential Steps to Prepare Your Land for a Custom Home | Episode 29

In this first episode of our special 7-part series expanding on our most popular episode (Ep. 22), hosts Steven Byrnes & Mike Byrnes take an in-depth look at Lot Preparation, the critical first step in the custom home building process.

You'll learn about:

• Land Surveying & Boundary Identification: Why surveying your lot is crucial.

• Tree Clearing & Site Preparation: Key considerations for effectively clearing your land.

• Scraping the House Pad: Proper techniques to establish a solid foundation.

• Excavation & Basements: Important excavation insights, including considerations for basement builds.

• Drainage & Topography Management: Ensuring proper water runoff and land grading.

• Utilities & Setbacks: Understanding utility placements and building setback requirements.

Whether you're planning your dream custom home or just getting started, this episode will equip you with essential knowledge to avoid costly pitfalls.

Subscribe and visit buildingwithbreven.com for more resources, and follow us on Instagram @brevenhomes for additional custom home insights.

Episode 30: How to Build a Strong Foundation for Your Custom Home | Step 2 of the Home Building Process

In this episode of Building With Breven, we continue our 7-part mini series breaking down each step of the custom home building process. This week, we take a deep dive into Step 2: Foundation—a critical phase that can make or break your entire home construction project.

If you’re planning to build a home, understanding the foundation phase is essential to avoid costly mistakes and structural issues later on. Host Steven Byrnes and Mike Byrnes of Breven Homes explain everything you need to know about laying a strong, lasting base for your custom home.

• How engineering impacts your home’s foundation

• Checking house orientation and layout before pouring

• The most common types of foundations in home building

• Where to place floor plugs, plumbing, and electrical conduit

• Hot and cold weather precautions for foundation pours

• Ideal foundation heights for custom homes

• Choosing the right type of concrete for your soil and design

• The impact of floor finishes on your foundation plan

• Smart ways to save money when building a foundation

Whether you're just starting to research how to build a home or you're already deep into the home construction process, this episode will give you the expert guidance you need to make confident decisions.

At Breven Homes, we believe the more you understand the home building process, the better your project outcome will be. That’s why we created this special series—to help you gain clarity on what it takes to build a home that lasts.

🎧 Listen now to learn how to build a foundation that supports your vision and your investment.

🔗 Visit buildingwithbreven.com for exclusive resources and tools to help you plan your custom home build.

📱 Follow us on Instagram @brevenhomes for behind-the-scenes tips, project updates, and expert advice on every stage of home building.

In this episode, we cover:

Episode 31: Framing, Cornice & Roof Decking – How to Build the Structure of a Custom Home

If you're planning to build a home, understanding the structural phase is essential to successful home building. In this episode of Building With Breven, we continue our 7-part mini series inspired by our most downloaded episode, Ep. 22, diving deeper into Step 3: Framing, Cornice, and Roof Decking.

Knowing how to build a home from the ground up starts with getting the frame right—and this is especially critical for custom homes, where every detail matters.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What framing, cornice, and roof decking actually include in modern home construction

• Why engineering matters: structural loads, windstorm requirements, and long-term durability

• Choosing between metal framing and wood framing when you build a home

• Smart framing techniques for efficient, sustainable home building (like California corners and 24” OC spacing)

• What “drying in” means and how cornice work ties into windows, soffits, and fascia

• Weatherproofing strategies and exterior insulation best practices (also see Ep. 10)

• Types of roof decking and how they impact your custom home’s performance

Whether you’re hiring a builder or overseeing your own custom home project, this episode will help you better understand how to make smart, cost-effective decisions during one of the most critical phases in the home construction process.

At Breven Homes, we’re committed to helping homeowners like you learn exactly how to build a home with confidence—from concept to completion.

🎧 Tune in now to strengthen your knowledge and take the next step in your home building journey.

🔗 Visit buildingwithbreven.com for free guides and tools to help you plan your dream home.

📱 Follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for visuals, tips, and behind-the-scenes updates on real custom homes in progress.

Episode 32: Mechanical Rough-Ins – Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical in Custom Home Building

In this episode of Building With Breven, we continue our 7-part mini series breaking down the full process to build a home, step-by-step. Inspired by our most popular episode (Ep. 22), we’re diving deep into Step 4: Mechanical Rough-Ins—a critical stage in home building that happens right after framing and before insulation or drywall.

If you want to understand how to build a home the right way, this is one of the most important (and often misunderstood) phases in the home construction process. Host Steven Byrnes of Breven Homes walks you through the key components of the mechanical rough-in phase, including plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and more.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

🔧 Plumbing Top-Out

• Fixture locations and planning for long-term functionality

• PEX, trunk-and-branch systems, and efficient water distribution

• Sewer line (head) testing and water supply pressure testing

  ❄️ HVAC Rough-In

• Ductwork layout: returns, supplies, plenums, and copper lines

• Condensate drain lines and how the system ties together

• What a duct blast test is and why it matters in custom homes

  ⚡ Electrical Rough-In

• The electrical walk-through with your builder or electrician

• Placement of breaker panels (main and subpanels)

• Visual inspections and planning for future electrical needs

  📡 Low-Voltage Systems

• Smart home prep: speakers, internet, cable, cameras, and media

• Prewiring for security, video doorbells, and future upgrades

  🐜 Bonus: Pest Control

• Why some homeowners install pest control systems in the framing stage

Whether you’re working with a builder or managing your own custom home project, this episode will help you gain the confidence to make the right decisions when it comes to mechanical systems in your future home.

At Breven Homes, we believe knowledge is power—and understanding each stage of home building helps you avoid costly mistakes and build smarter.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how to approach the mechanical phase like a pro and move one step closer to completing your dream home.

🔗 Visit buildingwithbreven.com for checklists, visuals, and more resources on how to build a home.

📱 Follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for behind-the-scenes insights into real home construction projects and expert custom home tips.

Episode 33: Insulation & Drywall – How to Prepare Your Custom Home for Energy Efficiency & Interior Finishes

In this episode of Building With Breven, we officially enter Phase 2 of the home building process! Inspired by our most popular episode (Ep. 22), this is the fifth installment of our 7-part mini series on how to build a custom home, and we’re diving deep into insulation and drywall—a key transition point between rough construction and finished interiors.

Host Steven Byrnes of Breven Homes breaks down what to expect during the insulation and drywall phase of your custom home construction, and what you need to check before moving forward to paint and trim.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

🔥 Insulation Types & Strategy

• The pros and cons of fiberglass, spray foam (open & closed cell), cellulose, rigid foam board, and mineral wool

• Which insulation materials best support energy efficiency in custom homes

• What to expect during energy inspections, including the pre-drywall visual inspection and the final blower door test

  🧱 Drywall Best Practices

• Why the pre-drywall walk is one of the most important steps in the home building process

• How to review your plans and specifications before walls go up

• What to check during drywall installation to ensure quality craftsmanship

• Post-drywall walkthrough tips: spotting inconsistencies and issues before paint

  
  

  Whether you're building your first home or managing your own custom home project, this episode gives you the insight you need to protect your investment and move through home construction with confidence.

  At Breven Homes, we believe homeowners should understand every major milestone in the process to successfully build a home that lasts. Knowing what to look for during insulation and drywall ensures you're building smart and avoiding problems down the road.

  🎧 Tune in now to get one step closer to completing your dream home!

  
  

  🔗 Visit buildingwithbreven.com for checklists, resources, and more tips on how to build a home.

  📱 Follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for behind-the-scenes videos and expert advice on home building and designing custom homes in Central Texas.

Episode 34: Trim Phase Explained – Interior & Exterior Finish Work in Custom Home Building

In this episode of Building With Breven, we continue our 7-part mini series expanding on our most popular episode (Ep. 22), which breaks down the full process to build a home. This week, we dive into Step 6: The Trim Phase—the stage in home construction where your custom home finally starts to look and feel like a real home.

If you’re learning how to build a home, this is one of the most exciting and most detail-heavy phases of the home building process. Host Steven Byrnes and co-host Mike Byrnes of Breven Homes walk you through exactly what’s included in the trim phase, what order things happen in, and what you should be inspecting before move-in.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

🏠 What the Trim Phase Includes

Interior Finish Work:

• Trim carpentry and interior doors

• Paint and finish prep

• Cabinets and built-ins

• Flooring and tile installation

• Countertops

• Plumbing trim (fixtures, faucets, etc.)

• Electrical trim (switches, outlets, fixtures)

• HVAC trim (registers, grilles, thermostats)

• Low-voltage trim (internet, speakers, security, cameras, smart home equipment)

Exterior Finish Work:

• Flatwork (driveways, walkways, patios)

• Final grading and drainage

This phase is where all the systems installed earlier in the custom home construction process come together into a livable, finished space. If you want to build a home without surprises, this episode will help you understand sequencing, quality control, and what to look for before final completion.

At Breven Homes, we believe the more you understand the home building process, the better your experience and final result will be. Knowing what happens during the trim phase helps you avoid delays, budget surprises, and last-minute stress.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how the final details come together and how your house becomes a home.

📱 Follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for behind-the-scenes progress, real custom homes, and expert home construction tips.

Episode 35: Final Walkthrough, Punch List & Closing – How to Finish Building a Custom Home

This is it—the final step in the journey to build a home. In this episode of Building With Breven, we wrap up our 7-part mini series expanding on our most popular episode (Ep. 22) by diving deep into Step 7: The Final Phase of the home building process.

If you’ve ever wondered how to build a home from start to finish, this episode completes the picture. Host Steven Byrnes and co-host Mike Byrnes of Breven Homes explains exactly what happens between “almost done” and “you get the keys,” and how to navigate the final stretch of custom home construction with confidence.

This phase is where months of planning, design, and home construction finally turn into move-in day.

What is the Final Phase of Building a Home?

The final phase is when all remaining details are completed, inspected, cleaned, and verified before closing. It’s also where you protect yourself from future headaches by making sure everything is done correctly before you take ownership of your custom home.

Interior Final Phase Includes:

• Carpet installation

• Appliance installation

• Special equipment installs (water softeners, generators, etc.)

• Punch list work and final corrections

• Final clean and detailing

• Final inspections and sign-offs

• The Final Walkthrough / New Home Orientation

• Coordinating with the title company and mortgage company

• Closing day → Move-in

• How your new home warranty works and what to expect after move-in

Exterior Final Phase Includes:

• Landscaping installation

• Irrigation system

• Power washing and final exterior cleaning

This is the stage where your custom home officially becomes a finished, livable space. But it’s also one of the most important stages to understand if you want to build a home without regrets, surprises, or lingering issues.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to properly handle your punch list

• What to look for during your final walkthrough

• How closing on a new construction home actually works

• What should (and shouldn’t) happen before you move in

• How to protect yourself with the builder warranty process

At Breven Homes, we believe the more educated you are about the home building process, the better your experience and outcome will be. This final episode brings the entire series together and gives you a complete roadmap for finishing your custom home the right way.

Tune in now to learn how to confidently cross the finish line and complete your home construction journey the right way.

Visit homebuildinginsights.com for guides, checklists, and resources on how to build a home from start to finish.

Follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for behind-the-scenes progress, real custom homes, and expert home buildingtips.

Congratulations — your home is done!

Episode 36: Custom Home Budgeting — The 5 Decisions That Significantly Shape Your Entire Home Building Budget

If you’re planning to build a home, your budget is shaped long before construction starts. In this episode of Building With Breven, we break down the five biggest early decisions that influence your entire home building budget — not specific costs, but the choices that determine how expensive your project ultimately becomes.

Understanding these factors is essential if you want to learn how to build a home strategically, avoid budget surprises, and approach home construction with confidence. Whether you’re exploring custom homes for the first time or already working with a builder, these insights will help you make smarter financial decisions from day one.

In this episode, we cover:

Land vs. House Budget Allocation
How dividing your budget between land and the structure impacts everything that follows when you build a home.

Square Footage Traps
Why layout efficiency often matters more than size in modern home building, and how square footage decisions affect your total investment.

Finish Level Expectations
How finish selections — cabinets, flooring, fixtures, and materials — drive budget outcomes in custom home construction.

Builder Selection & Cost Impact
How your builder influences quality, efficiency, timelines, and long-term costs in the home construction process.

Timeline Realism
Why unrealistic timelines can increase stress, delays, and expenses when building custom homes.

These five decisions shape your overall home building experience more than almost anything else. Getting them right early helps you confidently build a home you love without unnecessary financial surprises.

At Building With Breven, our goal is to give homeowners clarity around the entire home building process so you can make informed decisions and enjoy the journey.

Tune in now to learn how to approach custom home budgeting the smart way.

Visit homebuildinginsights.com for our complete step-by-step guide on how to build a home, and follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for real-world insights into home construction and building custom homes.

Reach out to us at hello@homebuildinginsights.com

Episode 37: After You Build a Home — Warranty, Maintenance & What to Expect After Move-In

You’ve made it through the entire home building process—but what happens after you move in?

In this episode of Building With Breven, we break down what homeowners should expect after they build a home, including how the builder warranty works, what maintenance is required, and how to avoid common frustrations during your first year of homeownership.

If you’re learning how to build a home, understanding what happens after closing is just as important as the home construction itself. This episode will help you set the right expectations so you can enjoy your custom home with confidence.

In this episode we cover:

Why This Phase Matters
Closing is exciting, but it’s not the end of responsibility. Homes are built with natural materials and complex systems, and small adjustments are a normal part of home building.

What a Builder Warranty Is — and What It Is Not
We explain how warranties work in custom homes, what is typically covered, and where homeowners often misunderstand the home construction warranty process.

What to Expect After Move-In
What happens in the weeks and months after closing and how builders typically handle warranty requests.

Essential Homeowner Maintenance
The most important maintenance items to protect your investment and keep your home performing properly after you build a home.

Common Misunderstandings That Cause Frustration
Where expectations often break down between homeowners and builders—and how to avoid those issues.

Whether you’ve already completed your custom home or you’re still planning your home building journey, this episode will help you transition from construction to confident homeownership.

At Building With Breven, our goal is to help you understand every phase of home construction—including what happens after the build is complete—so you can make informed decisions and enjoy the process from start to finish.

Tune in now to learn what to expect after move-in and how to take care of your home the right way.

Visit homebuildinginsights.com for our complete step-by-step guide on how to build a home, and follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for real-world insights into custom homes and modern home building.