The first step in the home building process is to decide whether home design or location is more important to you. Certain home design styles require that the topography of the land be a certain way. If you are open to different home styles and floor plan layouts, then the land topography (flatness or steepness) may not need to be as big of a driving factor in your decision.
The second step in the home building process would be to get pre-approved for a home building loan. This is important to do before you meet with a contractor so you can go into the meeting knowing what type of budget you have for building your home.
The third step is to then seek out a contractor. Talking with a contractor will allow you to discuss your home design desires and they can help guide you to figure out which design styles fit within your budget and your purchased land lot. This determined budget lets contractors know what characteristics you can afford to put into a home. These characteristics can include the number of square feet, floor plan layout, bedroom/bathroom number, the number of floor levels, and garage style.
Finalize home specifications with your contractor. Specifications can include (but are not limited to): Exterior: siding material, roofing, exterior colors, door style, porch design. Interior: flooring, paint colors, trim, lighting, ceiling. Bedrooms: flooring, door styles, paint colors, lighting, closet layouts. Bathrooms: sink, faucet, shower, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, paint colors, mirrors. Kitchen: flooring, cabinetry, sink & faucets, countertops, backsplash, lighting, paint colors
The fifth step is to then submit the finalized contract to the chosen lender for loan approval and as built appraisals.
The sixth step is to then follow the regulatory compliance process of obtaining permits. The contractor should submit these permits for you after a contract has been signed. These permits can include (but are not limited to): Water & Sewer Permits, Perc Tests, Zoning Permits, Building Permits, and Environmental Permits.
Lastly, the seventh (and most exciting) step is to then begin the building process.