The Cost Of Building A Custom Home In Calgary

Building the home of your dreams is an exciting journey. And when you’ve come to a place in your life where you can build your legacy, what better way to celebrate the fruits of your labour than by investing in a luxury home crafted especially for you?

As a custom home builder, we are often asked about the cost of building a custom home in Calgary. The answer depends on various factors, including whether it’s a completely custom or a semi-custom build, how large the property is, site preparation, architecture, material, and features, just to name a few.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we specialize in luxury, and with every home we build, we build wow. If you can dream it, we can build it. Our portfolio of custom homes showcases a diverse range of designs – from sleek contemporary to traditional builds of stone and wood. If you’re considering building a luxury custom home in Calgary, one of the preliminary steps is to determine an estimated cost and set a budget.

Here’s what you can expect during the process and how to choose a reliable company that will stick to the budget as closely as possible.

Evaluating the cost of a custom home

The first step in the process is to meet with your builders, which includes the design and architect team. You’ll discuss your overall vision, your desired location, your needs, lifestyle, and budget. From here, our team can give you an idea of the cost based on similar builds, square footage, and features.

Although each custom home build differs, the process typically follows:

An offer to purchase the land: At Riverview Custom Homes, we can help you choose the location and offer recommendations on how to optimize the land. Once the offer to purchase is made and secured, we begin the design process.
Initial design concept: The initial design concept is based on your vision. Our expert designers will put together elements for a cohesive look, including materials, colours, backsplashes, door styles, lighting – every one of a thousand detail. The design concept may go through a few revisions – remember, this is your home and you should be completely satisfied with the concept before moving forward. During this stage, your team will inform you of the estimated costs and any changes in total expenses.
Home plan review: Once the design is approved, an architect reviews the home plan to verify that it’s architecturally sound. After the home plan has been approved and signed, we can put together a detailed budget forecast.
A detailed forecast of costs: The budget forecast includes the expected cost of the overall build and what each expense includes. Of course, with any build, some issues may arise that may become an added expense. An experienced builder will communicate common issues with you and plan for contingencies to keep the project moving smoothly. Once you’ve approved the budget forecast and the funds are secured, construction begins on your new luxury home.

Factors that influence the cost of building a custom home in Calgary

Several key factors will significantly influence the final cost of building a custom home in Calgary and because every custom home is unique, these elements can differ widely and lead to large variations in overall project expenses.

Location: The specific neighbourhood where you choose to build can have a substantial impact on the cost of your custom home. Land prices vary significantly throughout the city depending on everything from accessibility to nearby amenities, and certain areas may have stricter building regulations or require more complex foundation work due to the terrain.
Square footage: The overall size of your custom home is a primary driver of cost. Larger homes naturally require more materials and labour, directly impacting the cost.
Materials: The selection of materials for both the interior and exterior of your home plays a crucial role in determining the cost. Choices range from standard options to higher-end luxury finishes, each with a different price point.
Design complexity: The intricacy and uniqueness of your custom home’s design will influence the cost. Highly detailed architectural plans, custom features, and non-standard layouts often require more specialized labour and can increase expenses.
Site preparation: The condition of your building lot and the necessary preparations can add to the overall cost. This may include demolition of existing structures, excavation, levelling, utility connections, and addressing any unique site challenges.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to build a 2000 sq ft house in Alberta?

When you search online for the average cost of building a 2000 sq ft house in Alberta, many sources will claim that it’s about $150 per square foot. However, keep in mind that this number fluctuates significantly depending on the type of house you’re building, the materials, site preparation, architecture, design, and more. The cost of a stick-built home will differ greatly from building a custom luxury home in Calgary.

Can I build my own house in Calgary?

Absolutely. Calgary has vast open spaces with available land in rural areas and desirable locations in the urban sprawl to build your dream home. If you decide to build in Calgary, be sure you work with a home builder that has a firm knowledge of city by-laws, zoning laws, and provincial policies.

How expensive is it to build a house in Alberta?

The cost of building a house in Alberta is not a straightforward answer as it depends on a number of factors. First, Alberta offers diverse locations – rural, urban, small towns, hamlets, city suburbs, to name a few. Each location requires different site preparation, which can impact the cost. Second, the type of home you want to build is a determining factor in the overall cost. While single-family homes in Calgary typically start at around $500,000 including land, you can expect a superior luxury build to go beyond the million-dollar mark.

View our work

From traditional architectural homes and modern sprawling custom builds to inner-city infills, our team showcases a diverse portfolio in our gallery. We invite you to explore our designs and see firsthand how we build wow on every home we touch.

Choosing the right custom home builder in Calgary

While there are horror stories about custom home builds – projects going thousands of dollars over budget and builders leaving the project unfinished – these incidents are rare. However, they do emphasize the importance of selecting an experienced builder, particularly for more complex and sophisticated builds.

Be diligent in your search for the right builder. When it comes to costs and budget forecasting, some good questions to ask are:

How do you make sure the project stays on budget?
Will I be given invoices and details of each expense?
How do you communicate issues during the project?
How do you approach constraints and solve problems along the way?
Can you walk me through your home-building process?
What warranties do you offer?

At Riverview Custom Homes, we set a high standard in the custom luxury home industry. Our team includes professional designers, architects, builders, project managers, and site supervisors who are experts in their field. Together, we have built superior properties that our clients find joy coming home to.

Connect with us today to build your legacy with Calgary’s premier custom home builder.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Custom Home Building Permit Approved in Calgary?

Embarking on the journey of building your dream home with a luxury custom home builder in Calgary is an exciting endeavour. At Riverview Custom Homes, we don’t just build houses; we build wow, crafting legacies in brick and mortar tailored to your unique vision.

One of the initial, yet critical, steps in bringing that vision to life is securing the necessary building permits from the City of Calgary. Understanding the timeline involved in this process is key to a smooth, well-managed project.

The Typical Timeline: What to Expect When You Work with a Custom Home Builder

Generally, you can expect the approval process for a custom home building permit in Calgary to take between eight and 16 weeks. However, it’s important to recognize that this is an estimate, and certain circumstances can significantly impact this timeline. Think of this period as a crucial phase where the City of Calgary meticulously reviews plans for your home to ensure they meet all safety standards, zoning regulations, and building codes.

Factors That Can Influence Approval Time

Several key factors can either accelerate or extend the time it takes to receive your building permit approval in Calgary:

Complexity of Design: Intricate and unconventional architectural designs often require more in-depth review, naturally extending the processing time.
Completeness and Accuracy of Application: A comprehensive and error-free application package is the key to swift approvals. Missing documents, inconsistencies, or inaccuracies will inevitably lead to delays as the City of Calgary requests further information or revisions. At Riverview Custom Homes, our team is committed to ensuring that your applications are complete and accurate prior to submission.
City Workload and Volume: The current volume of building permit applications being processed by the City of Calgary can fluctuate. Periods of high construction activity may result in longer processing times.
Site-Specific Conditions: Unique site characteristics, such as environmental considerations, geotechnical issues, or complex servicing requirements, can necessitate additional reviews and approvals, impacting the overall timeline.
Zoning and Bylaw Compliance: Ensuring your custom home design adheres strictly to all applicable zoning bylaws and regulations is crucial. Any deviations or requests for variances will add time to the approval process.

Partner with Riverview Custom Homes for a Seamless Permit Process

At Riverview Custom Homes, we understand the nuances of having a building permit approved in Calgary. From the initial stages of design to the final submission of documents, our team meticulously prepares and manages your permit application. We collaborate closely with architects and the City of Calgary, leveraging our experience to anticipate potential challenges and address them proactively. Our goal is to handle the complexities of the permit process, allowing you to focus on the exciting aspects of designing your beautiful luxury custom home.

If you’re ready to build your legacy and start designing your dream home with Calgary’s best custom home builder, connect with us today!

Why Choose Riverview Custom Homes for Your Luxury Renovation

Your luxury home in Calgary deserves a renovation that reflects its elegance and enhances your lifestyle. Instead of a standard remodel, a custom renovation allows you to tailor your living space to your exact needs and desires.

When you’re looking to hire a renovation company for your luxury project, look to Riverview Custom Homes. With our high level of expertise and artistry, we build wow on every project, ensuring a seamless and exceptional transformation.

The Riverview Custom Homes Difference: Three Reasons to Choose Us

Choosing the right partner for your luxury home renovation is one of the most important decisions you’ll make throughout the entire process. Here’s why Riverview Custom Homes stands out as the premier choice when it’s time to hire a renovation company:

Expertise and craftsmanship: We have a deep understanding of luxury home construction and renovation, and we always pay meticulous attention to every little detail.
Personalized approach: We collaborate closely with you throughout the entire process, from initial design concepts to final touches. Your unique style and preferences guide every decision, resulting in a renovation that’s truly you.
Seamless project management: We handle every aspect of your renovation, from early planning stages and pulling permits to construction oversight and finishing. Our experienced team ensures a smooth and stress-free process, allowing you to focus on enjoying the transformation of your home.

Custom Renovations Tailored to Your Lifestyle

A custom renovation goes beyond simple upgrades; it’s about reimagining your living space to perfectly suit your evolving needs and desires. Whether you envision a state-of-the-art kitchen, an in-home gym or yoga studio, or a complete home makeover, a custom approach allows for unparalleled flexibility and creativity.

Why Work With a Professional Renovation Company

Hiring a professional renovation company and remodeling contractor like Riverview Custom Homes offers numerous advantages:

Expert Guidance: We provide expert advice and guidance throughout the entire process, helping you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
Quality Materials and Finishes: We have access to a wide range of premium materials and finishes, ensuring a high-end result that enhances the value and beauty of your home.
Efficient Project Management: We manage all aspects of the renovation, ensuring it is completed on time and within budget.
Peace of Mind: With a professional team handling your renovation, you can relax and enjoy the process, knowing your home is in capable hands.

Refine Your Legacy with Riverview Custom Homes

A custom renovation is an investment in your home and your lifestyle. It’s an opportunity to create a space that’s both beautiful and functional, a place where you can truly live your best life. Riverview Custom Homes is committed to building wow into every renovation, exceeding your expectations and delivering a finished product you’ll love for years to come.

Ready to refine your legacy with Riverview Custom Homes? Connect with us today to hire a renovation company that transforms your Calgary home with unparalleled quality and craftsmanship.

The Unparalleled Advantage of Building a Custom Home in Calgary

Embarking on the journey of building a custom luxury home in Calgary offers an extraordinary opportunity to create a residence that perfectly aligns with your unique aspirations and lifestyle. The advantage of building a custom luxury home lies in the unparalleled level of personalization and the ability to craft a space that truly reflects your individual tastes and lifestyle.

Forget cookie-cutter designs; the advantage of building a custom luxury home is all about bringing your vision to life, right down to the finest details.

Tailoring Your Dream with Unmatched Personalization

One of the most significant advantages of building a custom luxury home is the freedom to design a space that caters specifically to you. From the overall layout and architectural style to the selection of premium materials and bespoke finishes, every element is a reflection of your personal preferences. Imagine a gourmet kitchen detailed for your culinary passions, a spa-like ensuite bathroom offering a sanctuary of relaxation, and living areas perfectly configured for both grand entertaining and intimate family moments.

This level of personalization ensures that your home is more than just a place to live but an extension of who you are and what you love most. At Riverview Custom Homes, we believe in crafting exceptional spaces, and this bespoke approach is at the heart of how we build wow.

Superior Quality and Innovative Design

Choosing to build a custom luxury home in Calgary also means access to superior quality in every aspect of construction. You have the opportunity to select the finest materials, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and long-term durability.

Furthermore, custom builds allow for the integration of the latest technologies and innovative design trends, creating a home that’s both cutting-edge and timeless. Whether it’s incorporating smart home systems for seamless living or embracing sustainable building practices, a custom luxury home allows you to prioritize quality and innovation.

Location & Lifestyle

Another advantage of building a custom luxury home is the ability to create a space that’s harmonized perfectly with the surrounding
community. Whether you envision a sprawling estate on the city’s outskirts with panoramic mountain views or a sophisticated urban oasis, a custom build allows you to maximize the unique characteristics of your property.

Picture an outdoor space that seamlessly blends with the natural landscape or positioning your home to capture the best views and natural light. This thoughtful integration of location and lifestyle is a hallmark of true luxury living.

Key Considerations Before Building a Custom Home

Building a custom home is exciting, but there are several key considerations to make before you break ground. Careful planning and preparation are the foundation of a successful build.

Selecting the Right Builder

Choosing the right builder is arguably the most important decision you’ll make. Your builder will be your partner throughout the entire process, so select one that’s reputable with a proven track record of delivering exceptional quality, like Riverview Custom Homes. We work closely with you to establish a well-defined plan that ensures your vision is accurately translated into reality and that your project stays on track.

Open Communication

Maintaining open and consistent communication with your builder throughout the entire process is important. Regular updates, clear dialogue, and a collaborative approach on both ends will help keep everyone aligned on the project’s progress.

Understanding the Timeline

Building a custom luxury home is a significant undertaking that requires time and careful coordination. Understanding the various stages involved, from initial design and permitting to construction and finishing, will help you manage your expectations and plan accordingly.

Build Your Legacy in Calgary

The advantage of building a custom luxury home in Calgary extends beyond just creating a beautiful place to live; it’s about crafting a legacy—a space where memories are made and your unique story unfolds. With meticulous planning, the right builder, and a commitment to quality, your dream home can become a tangible representation of your success and aspirations.

Ready to build your legacy in a luxurious Riverview Custom Home? Connect with us today to get started.

Common Construction Challenges: How Our Team Ensures Customer Satisfaction

Luxury home projects in Calgary, be they new builds or renovations, are exciting, but they can also come with many challenges. Navigating regulations, managing contractors, and staying on schedule can feel overwhelming and that’s why it’s important to select the right custom home builder to oversee your project.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we’re experts at foreseeing common luxury custom home-building challenges and in nearly every case, we’re prepared to face those challenges head-on. Here’s how:

Challenge #1: Navigating Permits and Regulations

Calgary, like any major city, has specific rules and regulations governing both new home construction and renovations. Obtaining the necessary permits and authorizations can be a confusing and time-consuming process. Failure to comply can lead to costly delays and even legal issues.

The Riverview Solution: Our team is intimately familiar with Calgary’s building codes and bylaws, covering all aspects of new builds and renovations. We handle all aspects of the permit application process, ensuring your project is fully compliant from the start, whether you’re breaking ground on a new lot or modifying an existing structure. We’ve built strong relationships with city officials, allowing us to navigate the process efficiently and anticipate potential roadblocks. This proactive approach minimizes delays and keeps your project on schedule.

Challenge #2: Managing Multiple Contractors and Schedules

Both new builds and renovations involve a diverse team of specialists: architects, designers, engineers, electricians, plumbers, framers, painters, flooring installers, and more. Coordinating these various contractors, ensuring they work together seamlessly, and managing the overall project timeline can be a logistical nightmare. Miscommunication and scheduling conflicts can lead to delays, increased costs, and frustration.

The Riverview Solution: When you work with Riverview Custom Homes, you have a dedicated project manager and site supervisors who act as your single point of contact, regardless of the project type. Our expert luxury home builders handle all communication and scheduling with contractors, ensuring everyone is on the same page and working efficiently. Our team has years of experience managing complex, high-end projects, from initial design concepts to final completion, anticipating potential conflicts, and proactively finding solutions to keep things running smoothly.

Challenge #3: Ensuring Quality Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail

Achieving unparalleled luxury and refinement, whether in a new build or a renovation, requires meticulous attention to detail. Small imperfections or oversights can detract from the overall impact.

The Riverview Solution: Our commitment to excellence is unwavering, across all our services. We use only the highest-grade materials and employ a team of experienced craftspeople who are passionate about their work. Our architectural designs, for both new homes and renovations, are truly one of a kind. From the initial design concept to the final finishing touches, we maintain focus on quality, ensuring every aspect of your project meets our exacting standards.

We Build Wow – and that means flawless execution, every time.

Challenge #4: Dealing with Unexpected Issues

No matter how well-planned a project is, unexpected issues can arise. Site conditions, hidden structural problems, unforeseen material delays, or even weather-related setbacks can occur in both new construction and renovations. Knowing how to effectively address these challenges is necessary to keep the project on track.

The Riverview Solution: Our experience in the industry allows us to anticipate many potential problems before they arise. However, when the unexpected does occur, our team is adept at finding creative and effective solutions. We have a network of trusted professionals we can call upon to address any issue quickly and efficiently. We also maintain open communication with you throughout the process, keeping you informed of any challenges and the steps we’re taking to resolve them, ensuring your peace of mind.

Challenge #5: Design Disconnect and Realizing Your Vision

Whether you’re building a new home from scratch or transforming an existing space, effectively communicating your design vision and ensuring it’s accurately translated into reality can be a challenge. Misunderstandings or a lack of clear communication can lead to a finished product that doesn’t fully capture your unique style.

The Riverview Solution: Our designers and architects are experts at listening, collaborating, and interpreting your ideas. We work closely with you throughout the design process, from initial concept sketches to detailed plans and material selections. We utilize 3D renderings and other visualization tools to help you see your vision come to life before construction begins. We are committed to ensuring that the final result not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Riverview Custom Homes is Your Go-To Luxury Home Builder in Calgary

At Riverview Custom Homes, we’re not just building homes; we’re building relationships and crafting legacies. We understand that your home, whether new or renovated, is more than just a building; it’s a sanctuary of security, comfort, and cherished memories. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing a construction experience that is as seamless and stress-free as possible, proactively addressing common luxury custom home-building challenges along the way. Our Progressive Home Warranty package further demonstrates our commitment to your complete satisfaction, providing comprehensive coverage for materials, labor, mechanical systems, and structural defects.

If you’re ready to embark on a luxury new build, renovation, or design project in Calgary and value a partner who prioritizes quality, transparency, and problem-solving, connect with Riverview Custom Homes today.

We’ll turn your vision into a reality, navigating any challenges with expertise and care.

Choosing the Right Custom Home Builder in Calgary to Build Your Legacy

Building a custom luxury home is a significant undertaking, filled with excitement and complexities. With so many builders in Calgary, finding the right partner that understands your vision and can navigate the intricacies of the process with ease is the key to a successful and stress-free building experience. Choosing the right custom home builder ensures that your dream home is built to the highest standards, reflecting your unique style and preferences.

Finding the Right Fit When Selecting a Custom Home Builder

With numerous custom home builders in Calgary, finding a builder that can communicate effectively and possesses the expertise to deliver exceptional results is important. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the selection process:

Review Their Portfolio

A builder’s portfolio provides valuable insights into their design aesthetic, craftsmanship, and project diversity. Take the time to explore their past work, paying attention to the styles, features, and overall quality of the homes they’ve built. Do their projects align with your vision and preferences?

Riverview Custom Homes, for instance, showcases a wide array of projects, from contemporary masterpieces to charming traditional residences, demonstrating our versatility and ability to cater to various tastes.

Engage in Open Communication

Effective communication is a necessary part of the custom home-building journey. When interviewing potential builders, observe their willingness to answer your questions and address your concerns. A collaborative approach, where your ideas are valued and your input is sought, fosters a positive and productive working relationship.

Inquire about their experience with similar projects, their problem-solving approach, and their strategies for staying on budget and on schedule. A builder who actively listens and communicates transparently is more likely to understand your needs and deliver a home that meets your expectations.

Verify Credentials and Expertise

Building a custom home requires specialized knowledge and skills. Inquire about the builder’s experience, qualifications, and professional affiliations or certifications. A reputable builder will be transparent about their credentials and readily provide references or testimonials from past clients.

With our team of experienced professionals and commitment to quality craftsmanship, Riverview Custom Homes has earned numerous awards and accolades, including awards for Single Family Builder of the Year, Builder of Merit, and the National SAM Award.

Prioritize Warranty and Support

A comprehensive warranty reflects a builder’s confidence in their work and their commitment to customer satisfaction. Carefully review the warranty terms, paying attention to coverage for materials, labour, mechanical systems, and structural components.

Build Your Legacy with Riverview Custom Homes

Selecting the right custom home builder is the key to making your dream home a reality. You can find a builder that aligns with your vision and priorities by carefully considering a builder’s portfolio, communication style, expertise, and warranty.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we believe in building more than just houses; we build wow. From concept to completion, we’re dedicated to crafting exceptional homes that reflect your unique style and exceed your expectations. With a focus on quality, collaboration, and unparalleled craftsmanship, we bring your vision to life, creating a space you’ll be proud to call home.

Ready to embark on your custom home-building journey? Connect with us today and take the first step toward creating a home that truly reflects your dreams.