About us
Built by Owner Builders by Owner Builders.
Our story:
$234M
(Owner Builders)
(Owner BUilders)
"Loved everything so far"
"I recently completed a full condo renovation, and My Build Guide was a game-changer. The build guide was incredibly detailed, making each step crystal clear. The pro tips were lifesavers, helping me avoid problems I didn't even know could exist."
- Brina H, Owner Builder (Renovator)
"My life changed forever"
"The Build Guide is very detailed and even though I completed the Home Owner Builder Training Program prior to writing the exam, it has been very helpful without taking a lot of time out of my day. Thank you for the opportunity to use this program."
- Louise P, Owner Builder (New Construction)
"Highly recommend this"
"My Build Guide made our home renovation easy, affordable, and completely stress-free. With no prior experience, we saved significant time, money, and avoided costly mistakes. The final result was everything we wanted. Highly recommend to everyone!"
- Samuel L, Owner Builder (New Construction)
Can I really build or renovate my house with no experience?
Yes! Building your house is not rocket science, but it does take a commitment and certain skill set. It consists of understanding a series of tasks, staying organized, being proactive and managing a budget.
Your total savings depends on several factors but generally you will save 30% plus. Builders usually charge between 10% - 20% on the total cost. Plus your builder is likely not going to be hunting for bargains every chance they get. For example, if you were to use stone counter-tops. If you took the time to call several stone manufacturers and asked if they have extras from a past job, you may just be able to find the right amount you need at deep discounts.
We have built a carefully designed Build Guide and management platform to help ensure your build will be a success. Just follow the step-by-step build guide, contact the contractors you need, and use the rest of their tools so you can build like the pros.
An Owner Builder is a homeowner who takes on the role of the general contractor for their own construction or renovation project, managing the process without hiring a licensed general contractor. Owner builders are responsible for obtaining permits, hiring and overseeing trades, sourcing materials, and ensuring the project complies with local building codes and regulations. Owner builder status typically applies to both new construction and major renovations, depending on local laws. In many jurisdictions, an owner builder can construct a new home, add an extension, or undertake significant renovations, provided they meet the requirements set by local building authorities. Some areas may have restrictions or require specific permits and training before an owner can take on this role.
The key factors we found to ensure your project speeds along at a rapid pace are as follows:
1. Ensure the jurisdiction is easy to deal with.
2. Budget your project with a budgeting and accounting software so you know it's feasible, this will save you from disastrous scenarios. Contact the contractors for every step and get a general idea of price based on your assumptions of the project.
3. Pick the right lot or property.
4. Ensure your construction drawings have enough detail that your contractors can follow them without question.
5. Pick your team prior to the build and always use a professional contract that outlines all details of the job.
6. Stay organized and proactive during the build. Having the right construction management tools will facilitate this, such as: Checklist items, Accounting program, Contact management tools, Work contract, etc.
Embarking on your own build or renovation can be a wonderful experience and very rewarding if you are organized and proactive.
It's hard to say what the biggest risk is because there are several but I would have to say the one that stands out as the most overlooked is:
Disputes
The most "overlooked" risk to an Owner Builder would have to be disputes. Over 50% of constructions project encounter some sort of disputes and over 30% result in litigation. Having a well crafted contract created by a construction Law Firm is worth the investment. This could however run you $3k - $5k but save you unimaginable amounts of money.
This contract should be fair, outline all the details of the job and be provided to your construction professionals. Far too often Builders along with Owner Builders sign off on contracts provided to them by their trades and construction professionals that they created by piecing together templates they found online.
Generally 16 - 24 months, however the time it takes to build your own house can drastically vary depending on several factors, to name a few: Size of project, competency of contractors, complexity of project, complexity of property, location of property, environmental conditions, experience and many more. Some jurisdictions can take upwards of 12 months and beyond to obtain permits. Creating your construction drawings can also vary depending on some of the above mentioned factors.
If it has to do with the software, our support team is on standby ready to help. Most things you should be able to figure out by following the Build Guide and working with the contractor at each step. However there are some variables that can come up and make you scratch you head. When these kids of issues arise they can easily be resolved by doing a couple of things:1. Contact whoever created your construction drawings (Architect or Home Designer) and or Structural Engineer. Ask them to help you troubleshoot.2. Contact a knowledgeable Builder and retain them to help you get through the complication.
We’re available by phone
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Support Hours: Monday till Friday 9 to 5 PST