What Drives the Cost of a Custom Home (And Why It’s Worth Building vs Buying)

When it comes to building a custom home, one of the most common questions we hear is, “How much will it cost per square foot?” While it's a fair question, the truth is — in custom home building, you do.

At Leverick Homes, we guide our clients through a transparent, client-driven process where selections, architectural design, and materials ultimately shape the total investment. Our role is to provide expert advice, accurate pricing, and exceptional craftsmanship — but your choices determine the direction and cost.

1. Architectural Design Sets the Tone

The architecture of your home impacts everything from engineering requirements to roof complexity and foundation needs. A simple, well-planned layout can be both stunning and efficient. Meanwhile, intricate rooflines, complex structural spans, or expansive square footage can increase both material and labor costs.

2. Selections Drive the Budget

Tile or hardwood? Quartzite or granite? Custom cabinetry or semi-custom? Every selection you make — from windows and doors to plumbing fixtures and lighting — has a wide price range. Our job is to educate you on your options, outline cost differences, and help you prioritize what matters most to you.

3. Material Choices Matter

High-performance building materials can improve durability, efficiency, and long-term maintenance costs — but they may come with a higher upfront investment. Whether you choose standard framing packages or upgraded insulation and waterproofing systems, each decision affects the final number.

4. Why Building Is Worth It

There’s no denying it — building a custom home is a more involved process than buying a spec home. You’ll be faced with hundreds of decisions, from floor plan details to finishes. But with that effort comes unmatched reward.

When you build, you don’t compromise. Every room reflects your lifestyle. Every finish is something you chose. Every dollar is spent with intention.

Unlike a spec home, which is built for the masses, a custom home is built for you — your taste, your needs, and your future.

And when it’s all said and done, you’ll walk into a home that feels uniquely yours. That sense of ownership and pride is something no spec home can replicate.

A Collaborative, Transparent Process

We believe in building with integrity, honesty, and transparency. That means no hidden markups or vague allowances. Instead, we break your budget down by cost code, track actual spending against initial estimates, and give you tools to see where you're over or under in real-time.

At the end of the day, you’re in control. We’re here to guide, inform, and execute your vision — within the parameters you set.