Texas is a unique state in which to build a home. For instance, the weather is very diverse and can range from hot and humid to cold and arid. Texas also has unique laws when it comes to building a home.
There are many factors to consider when building a home in Texas, which is why we’ve made this guide. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about building a home in Texas.
1. Find Land
The first step in building a home in Texas is finding land. Thankfully, it’s relatively easy to find an affordable plot of land in the Lone Star state (unlike other states such as Colorado). However, Texas has roughly 168 million available acres of land, so it may be arduous to find the best plot of land and build on it.
You may also need to consider other factors for the land you choose, such as the mineral rights of properties you intend to buy. “Mineral rights” are the rights of the oil and gas company to the contents underneath your property. When a company owns these rights, it means they may explore and extract contents underneath your property without your permission.
Double-check with the local county clerk office to find out if there is a mineral estate owner for your plot of land before buying.
2. File a Building Permit
Every state in the United States requires landowners to file building permits before construction begins. However, each city and location has different requirements for issuing permits.
Texas has relatively relaxed laws for building codes, so you shouldn’t have issues trying to get a building permit for your new home in the Lone Star state.
3. Get Insured
Home insurance in Texas is on par with the rest of the country. Standard homeowners’ insurance policies in the Lone Star state cover the dwelling, personal property, and other structures on your land. They also cover perils like fires and theft but do not cover natural disasters like floods and earthquakes.
The Lone Star State is unique because homeowners typically pay higher premiums than in other states. The higher prices are because of the unique combination of weather-related risks, such as hailstorms and tornadoes.
Although some insurance policies don’t cover disasters like these, you can save money on your policy by taking steps to reduce potential losses. For instance, if you live in Austin, you can search for “Metal roofing Austin” and find a company to install an impact-resistant roof.
4. Start Building
Once you’ve found the perfect plot of land, filed for a building permit, and secured insurance, you’re ready to build. Most building companies will have you select a floorplan and begin the financing process before building begins. Construction typically begins 30-45 days after you’ve signed the contract for your home, but many factors can delay the process, including:
- Local government approvals
- Construction backlogs
- Availability of materials and labor
- Changes requested by a homebuyer
- Weather
- And more
Your builders will first prepare the homesite for building. Then, they’ll frame the house and complete plumbing, HVAC, and insulation. Once they’ve finished that, they’ll install the drywall, interior and exterior finishes, and flooring.
After they’ve finished building your new home, you’ll be able to walk through and point out any concerns you want fixed before they hand you the keys.
Conclusion
Building a home in a new state can be complicated, but it’s not impossible. There are many factors involved, such as finding land, applying for permits, and getting insured. By knowing what to expect during the building process, you can be a more knowledgeable homeowner.
