Essential Steps for Building a Home in Texas

• Texas’ lack of state income tax and relatively low property taxes can make new home construction more affordable than many other states.
• Expect average construction costs in North Texas to range from $100–$150 per square foot, depending on design, finishes, and site conditions.
• Selecting your lot—whether in Prosper, Frisco, or Sherman—requires attention to utilities, soils, and local zoning (Preston Trail Homes builds throughout Collin, Denton, and Grayson counties).
• Architectural choices—from modern farmhouse to traditional two-story—impact both your budget and build timeline; choose between an architect or our proven plan library.
• Securing building permits (typically $500–$2,000 total in our region) and meeting municipal inspections are non-negotiable steps.
• Incorporating energy-efficient systems and smart-home features can reduce long-term utility bills and may qualify you for local rebates.

Building with Preston Trail Homes means combining custom craftsmanship with Texas’ favorable tax environment. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet suburban retreat in Van Alstyne or a quick-move-in home in Prosper, understanding each phase—from budgeting and land purchase to design and permits—lays the foundation for a successful project. 

Let’s walk through the essential steps to bring your Texas home to life.

Construction expenses vary by location, plan complexity, and material choices. In our service area (Collin, Denton, and Grayson counties), you can generally budget:

• Per-Square-Foot Costs: $100–$150/sq ft for standard custom homes—higher for premium finishes or intricate rooflines.
• Land Acquisition: Ranges widely—urban plots in Prosper or Frisco may command $200,000+ per acre; rural acreage outside Sherman often runs under $50,000/acre.
• Site Preparation: $5,000–$20,000, depending on grading, clearing, and soil conditions.
• Permits & Fees: $500–$2,000 total for building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits.

Accurate early estimates help prevent budget overruns—our Sales Counselors provide detailed proposals based on your chosen floor plan and lot.

Key Considerations

• Utilities & Access: Verify water, sewer, and power availability; rural lots may need septic or well systems.
• Soil & Drainage: Conduct a soils report—expansive clays common in North Texas can affect foundation design.
• Zoning & Deed Restrictions: Preston Trail builds in communities zoned for single-family custom homes; check any HOA covenants or lot-size minimums.
• Schools & Amenities: Proximity to top-rated districts (Frisco ISD, Sherman ISD) and conveniences can enhance resale value.

Acquisition Steps

1. Budget & Finance: Secure land financing or verify cash purchase capacity.
2. Survey & Soil Test: Hire a licensed surveyor and geotechnical engineer to define boundaries and soil conditions.
3. Offer & Contract: Work with your Realtor to negotiate price, include inspection contingencies, and set a closing timeline.

Architectural Styles

• Modern Farmhouse: Clean lines, board-and-batten siding, metal roofs—popular across North Texas.
• Traditional Ranch: Single-story, open floor plans, large porches—perfect for sprawling lots.
• Two-Story Classics: Maximizes square footage on smaller lots, often in Prosper and Frisco neighborhoods.

Plan Selection

• Custom Architect: Ideal for one-of-a-kind designs; expect 10%–20% of construction costs in architectural fees.
• Pre-Designed Library: Choose from 15+ tested floor plans; faster turnaround and predictable pricing.

Your Sales Counselor can guide you through finish packages—standard to premium—to align style with budget.

Essential Permits

• Building Permit: Covers foundation through final inspections ($500–$1,500).
• Trade Permits: Separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical approvals ($100–$300 each).
• Septic or Well Permit: Required for rural properties—fees vary by county.

Compliance Steps

1. Plan Submission: Submit stamped plans and site survey to your city or county permitting office.
2. Inspections: Schedule rough-in (foundation, framing, mechanical), insulation, and final walkthrough inspections. Preston Trail Homes manages all required inspections, ensuring code compliance at every stage.

Skipping or delaying permits can lead to costly corrections, fines, and insurance issues—our Project Managers keep your build on track.

Energy-efficient features protect your wallet and the environment:

• High-Performance Insulation & Windows: Lower heating and cooling loads in Texas’ climate.
• Smart Thermostats & LED Lighting: Eligible for utility rebates through Oncor or Gexa Energy.
• Solar-Ready Roof Designs: Simplify future panel installations if you choose to go solar.

Investments in efficiency typically pay for themselves over the life of your home through reduced utility costs and potential tax incentives.

From site selection to final walkthrough, Preston Trail Homes is with you every step of the way — ensuring transparency, quality, and compliance. 

Ready to turn your Texas home vision into reality? Reach out to our team today — we’re always happy to help!

How long does it typically take to build a home in Texas?

The timeline for completing a new construction home in Texas varies by project type. Spec homes can take as little as two to three months, while custom builds may require up to ten months. For land-based projects, including modular homes, completion often ranges from one to two years.

Are there any incentives for building energy-efficient homes in Texas?

Yes, Texas offers incentives for constructing energy-efficient homes. Smart home technology, upgraded HVAC systems, and efficient appliances help lower utility bills. Programs like local rebate initiatives further encourage green building practices. Embrace these savings while benefiting the environment.