What Are Calgary Acreage Homes? | 5 Reasons to Build Your Dream Custom Estate

What Are Calgary Acreage Homes? | 5 Reasons to Build Your Dream Custom Estate

Have you ever imagined waking up in a home that feels like it was created from the pages of your own imagination? A place where sweeping views of the Rockies greet you with every sunrise, where privacy and space stretch as far as your eye can see, and where each detail – from the stone on your fireplace to the picturesque wrap-around porch – is a reflection of your vision?

This is the promise of the custom-built acreage home.

What Exactly Is an Acreage Home?

An acreage home is more than a house on a large lot. It’s a residence set on at least one acre of land – a rare opportunity to create something expansive, deeply personal, and timeless. These homes are often built on the outskirts of Calgary, in communities that border the city, where rolling foothills meet the prairie skies.

Unlike city builds that must conform to subdivision guidelines, acreage homes allow for a breathtaking amount of freedom. You’re not just buying square footage or “more space”; you’re investing in possibility. Whether that means wide-open horse pastures, private hiking trails, or an estate designed for multi-generational living, the land gives you the space to dream boldly and build your legacy.

Building a Custom Acreage Home in Calgary

At Riverview Custom Homes, we view every acreage as a blank canvas. Our expertise ensures your dream is not only beautiful, but functional and enduring. We can help you select the perfect piece of land to build your home on, examine the property, and go through options to utilize the space in the best way. Our team is also experienced in the special considerations for an acreage home build, including zoning laws, utility connections, electricity, septic systems, and more. Then, through a highly collaborative process, our designers and architects bring your unique ideas to life with artistry and precision.

Every stage is transparent, from budget forecasting to construction updates, so you remain informed and confident in the creation of your acreage home. It’s this balance of creativity and practicality that transforms raw land into a sanctuary.

5 Reasons to Build Your Dream Custom Acreage Home

If you’re considering your next chapter and crave a home that reflects boundless freedom and personalized living, here are even more reasons why a custom acreage home could be the ultimate expression of your vision.

1. The Expansive Scenery

When you have a custom home on an acreage, nature is no longer something you “visit” or yearn for – it becomes the backdrop to your daily life. Imagine floor-to-ceiling windows framing the golden glow of prairie sunsets, or a glass-walled dining room where winter snowfalls turn dinner into theatre for a winter wonderland. You’re not just looking at views; you’re immersed in them. Each season brings a new canvas, making your home feel alive, ever-changing, and deeply rooted in place.

2. The Uninterrupted Luxury

Acreage living grants a level of seclusion that city lots can never replicate. Here, you set the boundaries. Whether you’re building a sprawling outdoor spa, practicing yoga under the open sky, or hosting an intimate family wedding on your own grounds, privacy is guaranteed. For families, it means safety and freedom for children to play; for professionals, it means a retreat from constant noise and distraction.

3. The Freedom to Dream Bigger

This is where the imagination runs wild. With acres of land, you’re free to think beyond conventional. Picture a stained-glass-walled greenhouse that doubles as an entertaining space, a secret library hidden behind a towering built-in bookcase, or a soundproof music studio overlooking a private pond. Horse barns, guest cottages, RV garages, basketball courts, ponds for stocking fish or skating, or even a personal vineyard or expansive garden – the space is yours to design with assistance. From an expert’s perspective, this level of flexibility is not just about luxury; it’s about future-proofing your lifestyle. Your home can evolve as your passions, family, or ambitions grow.

4. The Community Curation

Acreage neighborhoods are uniquely positioned – offering both independence and camaraderie. You’ll find like-minded individuals who value privacy yet appreciate the shared rhythms of rural living, from farmers’ markets to seasonal gatherings. It’s a sense of community rooted in choice, not proximity.

5. The Lifetime Investment

Land is finite, and acreage properties around Calgary are increasingly sought after. Beyond the immediate lifestyle benefits, acreage homes are a strategic long-term investment. In our expert view, the blend of lifestyle and return on investment is unmatched when you choose to build an acreage custom home.

Endless Possibilities | Building the Extraordinary

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of acreage homes is the freedom to imagine the extraordinary. Why settle for conventional when your land allows for the remarkable? Hidden passageways, observatories, private art galleries, suspended bridges to treehouse guest suites – if you can envision it, we can build it.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we encourage clients to dream beyond what feels practical, because luxury should be deeply personal. The boldest features are often the ones that turn a home into a legacy property.

Why Choose a Custom Home?

Buying an existing home might check boxes, but it rarely captures you. A custom home ensures every wall, every window, every texture serves a purpose aligned with your life. On an acreage, that power is amplified: you dictate how the land, architecture, and design harmonize and reflect your truest expression. This isn’t just shelter – it’s a statement of who you are and how you want to live.

The Riverview Custom Homes Process

Partnering with Riverview Custom Homes means embarking on a fully tailored experience, where our expert team carefully guides you through:

  • Vision Capture – We start with your ideas, big and small.
  • Land Selection – Helping you identify the right property to bring them to life.
  • Design & Architecture – Award-winning expertise tailored to your lifestyle.
  • Budgeting & Approvals – Transparent financial planning, no surprises.
  • Construction & Craftsmanship – Excellence delivered down to the final detail.

A Final Thought

Your acreage home isn’t simply about building a structure; it’s about creating an environment that inspires, shelters, and celebrates you.

With Riverview Custom Homes, every acre is maximized, every detail refined, and every dream made tangible.

Because the home you’ve been longing for isn’t just possible – it’s waiting for you.

Connect with us today to explore the possibilities and discover the Reasons to build a Custom Home that is authentically yours.

Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Acreage Homes in Calgary

What’s the difference between a regular home and a custom home?

A “regular” home has limited options and can be made in a “cookie-cutter” layout as it’s made according to the builder’s blueprints and designs, whereas a custom home is designed entirely by you (with the help of a custom home builder like Riverview Custom Homes) from the ground up – every detail and every feature reflects your specific vision.

Does custom home-building have a step-by-step process?

Yes. From selecting the lot to final construction, we guide you through each stage: land acquisition, design, approvals, and build.

What’s the typical timeline of a custom home project?

Projects can take a year or more, depending on their size, complexity, and custom features, including roofing, electrical work, or interior finishes.

What is the best area to build a custom home?

In truth, this depends on your ideal lifestyle and preferences. If you’re a city dweller and prefer to have access to public transit, then building a custom home within the city is probably your jam. However, if expansion, access to nature, and room to grow bring music to your ears, then Calgary’s surrounding acreage communities can provide the perfect mix of all the seclusion, growth, natural beauty, and accessibility you need.

Springbank Home Renovations | Bold Custom Renovation Ideas That Redefine What’s Possible

Springbank Home Renovations | Bold Custom Renovation Ideas That Redefine What’s Possible

The sought-after community of Springbank is a neighbourhood unlike any other – where rolling hills meet city lights, where serenity and sophistication coexist in perfect harmony. For homeowners here, a house isn’t just a structure; it’s a canvas of self-expression, an heirloom in the making, and the stage where life’s most unforgettable moments unfold.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we don’t just renovate houses or create custom builds. We create extraordinary living experiences. We take what’s familiar and elevate it into the realm of the unexpected – because in our world, imagination isn’t a boundary. It’s an invitation.

If you can think it, we can build it. If you’re ready to breathe new life into your Springbank property, here is a curated list of bold renovation ideas designed to increase value, elevate your lifestyle, and infuse your home with WOW.

Here are 5 legacy-defining renovation ideas to increase home value in Springbank:

1. Expand Your Living Areas | Think Beyond the Ordinary

Yes, adding square footage increases your home’s value and is an enticing approach. But what if those extra spaces weren’t just rooms or additions – but destinations? Imagine this…

  • Finished Basements with Flair
    Don’t just finish the basement; transform it into a full underground retreat straight from your dream board. Picture a speakeasy-style lounge with a stage for private shows and entertainment with a hidden entrance behind a bookcase for that exclusive flair, a private home cinema with plush tiered seating ready for the latest premieres, or even enough room for an in-house bowling alley to entertain family and friends.
  • Architectural Additions
    Think past the predictable and imagine a glass-walled yoga pavilion for your own private sessions, a sunlit artist’s studio where imagination can flourish, or a timeless two-story library with a spiral staircase worthy of a grand estate. These additions expand more than space – they expand the soul of the home.
  • Outdoor Extensions
    Blend indoor life with outdoor adventure by building a chef-worthy outdoor kitchen, an expansive firelit conversation pit, or even a luxurious infinity pool that cascades seamlessly into the horizon of Springbank’s rolling landscape. Every sunrise and sunset becomes part of your living space.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we don’t just bring your design dreams to life – we elevate them.

No vision is too bold, no idea too ambitious. In fact, we invite you to dream without limits, because the extraordinary isn’t just possible with us – it’s buildable, customizable, and waiting to be realized in breathtaking detail.

2. The Kitchen Reimagined | The Heartbeat of Wow

The kitchen is where life is enriched and where memories are created – and where design can truly take your breath away. Beyond new cabinetry and countertops lies the opportunity to create something truly spectacular:

  • A dramatic stone island that doubles as a grand sculpture or statement of its own.
  • Custom floor-to-ceiling wine walls or cellars for the collector who curates vintages.
  • High-end appliances concealed seamlessly behind custom millwork for a refined, uninterrupted look.
  • Integrated coffee bars and secret butlers’ pantries, dreamy breakfast nooks with panoramic windows, or prep kitchens hidden out of sight so the main kitchen always looks guest-ready.

This is more than a renovation; it’s a reinvention of how your family and guests experience food, conversation, and connection.

3. Modern Layouts | Flow, Light, and Freedom

Walls don’t just divide spaces – they divide experiences. Renovating for openness can create a home that breathes with you.

  • Tear down barriers to flood your home with abundant natural light.
  • Add skylights or double-height ceilings for grandeur and endless space to express.
  • Create seamless room transitions with automated, retractable glass walls that dissolve boundaries between indoors and out.
  • Experience the beauty of a cascading waterfall wall, a living masterpiece that gracefully defines the transition from one space to the next.

Your home becomes not just more spacious, but brighter, freer, and full of customized possibilities.

4. Outdoor Living | Designing Your Private Resort

In Springbank, your surroundings are as much a luxury as your interiors. Why not make the outdoors an extension of your WOW? Imagine this…

  • A pool with an infinity edge that mirrors the rugged Rockies in the distance.
  • A rustic pergola draped in lush greenery with grand crystal chandeliers that twinkle and glow at dusk.
  • Multi-level patios with distinct “zones” for lounging, dining, and entertaining, allowing your home to be the “it” location for events and gatherings.
  • A tranquil spa retreat featuring a natural springs-inspired hot tub, a custom Swedish sauna, and boulder-sized fire bowls crackling beneath the prairie stars.

It’s not just a backyard. It’s your personal resort – no check-in required.

5. Elevate Your Curb Appeal | The Art of First Impressions

The approach to your home should feel like the opening chapter of a remarkable story. Long before anyone steps inside, the exterior should whisper what’s to come. While many renovations stop at the interior, a true transformation embraces the full picture – ensuring the outside radiates the same sense of grandeur and individuality as the spaces within the home.

Imagine a clean, sculpted landscape framing your home like a work of art, while a grand stone and iron gate welcomes you onto your winding driveway.

Picture handcrafted wooden doors paired with sleek garage façades, or stonework that feels timeless, rising with the strength of legacy. Add elegant architectural details – trims, columns, crown molding – to elevate the façade with subtle substantiality. Even a dormer rising above the entryway can add height, drama, and presence, creating an impression of scale and magnificence before the door even opens.

These aren’t just cosmetic touches; they’re statements. Investing in enhancing your curb appeal is about more than beauty – it’s about creating an arrival experience that captivates you and your guests every single day.

The Bold and Unexpected | Where Imagination Becomes Reality

Here’s the honest truth: no idea is too outlandish when it comes to creating a home that reflects your authenticity and expansion. We’ve seen it all, and we’ve built it all. So, why not dream big?

Whether it be a hidden room tucked behind a sliding bookcase that opens only with your memorized secret code or sequence, an indoor pro-level basketball court, complete with polished floors and scoreboard, a 15-car garage with lifts, lighting, and climate control for the true automotive collector, a 250-foot indoor running track (yes, it’s been done), a two-story aquarium or an indoor climbing wall that doubles as art.

Your renovation isn’t just about what adds resale value – it’s about what makes jaws drop, what makes your life richer, and what makes every guest leaving saying, “Wow.”

Don’t Forget the Details | Nuance Creates Luxury

The biggest transformations often rest in the smallest details. The eye loves satisfying craftsmanship like:

  • Intricate crown molding and custom millwork.
  • Bespoke hardware chosen like fine jewelry for your home.
  • Lighting designs that sculpt mood, not just illuminate rooms.

It’s these finishing touches that separate a good renovation from a Riverview Custom Homes renovation.

Refine Your Legacy with Riverview

Your Springbank home deserves more than an update. It deserves imagination, artistry, and the kind of details that make people stop in their tracks.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we specialize in turning bold ideas into breathtaking realities.

Whether it’s a hidden speakeasy, a private spa, or an outdoor sanctuary that rivals a luxury resort, we ensure every detail is carefully crafted and every vision fully realized.

Because we don’t just build renovations. We build WOW.

Ready to see your wildest dreams come to life? Connect with us today, and we’ll build your WOW.

Modern vs. Traditional House: Which is Right for You?

Modern vs. Traditional House - Riverview Custom Homes

Your home is more than a place to lay your head at night. When guests step through the door, they get a sense of your style and personality. While some prefer more contemporary homes with modern amenities, others enjoy a more conventional style with quaint, simple attributes.

When it comes time to build your luxury custom home in Calgary, one of the first and most important choices you’ll make is deciding between a modern vs. traditional house style. Both styles offer distinct advantages, but which is right for you and your family? As an award-winning custom home builder in Calgary, we’re here to help you navigate this decision and build wow into your new custom home.

Curb Appeal: First Impressions Matter

The exterior of your home is the first statement you make. It sets the tone for the entire property and reflects your personal style before a guest even steps inside.

Modern homes create curb appeal with their striking architectural forms. They feature sleek, asymmetrical designs, flat or low-sloping roofs, and large windows that offer a glimpse of the interior. The emphasis is on bold lines and minimalist landscaping that complements the clean aesthetic.

Traditional homes offer a timeless and welcoming curb appeal. Their exteriors are often symmetrical, with classic elements like gabled roofs, covered porches, and decorative shutters. These details create a sense of established elegance and familiarity, inviting you in with a feeling of warmth and nostalgia.

Layout and Flow: Open vs. Defined Spaces

The interior layout and flow are where the differences in modern vs. traditional house styles are most apparent.

A modern home embraces an open-concept layout. Walls are minimized to create large, multi-functional spaces that connect the living, dining, and kitchen areas. This design promotes a seamless flow and makes the home feel more spacious and airy, perfect for entertaining and family gatherings.

In contrast, a traditional home typically features a more segmented layout. Rooms are separate and distinct, each with a specific purpose. This design provides a greater sense of privacy and structure, which many homeowners find comforting and practical for family living.

Interior Design & Decor

Once inside, the design and decor further define the character of the home. This is where your personal taste truly comes to life.

Modern interiors favour simplicity, functionality, and uncluttered spaces. They typically feature neutral colour palettes, polished surfaces, and minimal, purpose-driven furniture. Decor is kept to a minimum, with a focus on highlighting architectural features and art.

Traditional interiors are defined by comfort, classic elegance, and rich details. You’ll often find ornate trim, wood accents, and plush furniture with classic silhouettes. The use of warm colour palettes, rich fabrics, and decorative elements creates a cozy, layered feel that’s both inviting and luxurious.

Technology and Sustainability

One of the most significant differences in modern vs. traditional home design is the integration of technology and sustainability features.

In general, modern homes are designed to incorporate the latest smart-home technologies and energy-efficient features. From automated climate control and smart lighting to solar panels and green roofs, these homes are often built to be sustainable and future-proof.

While it’s possible to retrofit older traditional homes with new technology, their construction isn’t always optimized for cutting-edge sustainability features. However, with a custom home builder, you can renovate or start fresh, creating a home you’ll love for years to come that blends the classic charm of traditional design with modern, energy-efficient solutions and smart technology.

Cost Considerations

The cost of a custom home isn’t a simple question of whether it’s a modern vs. traditional house, but a reflection of your vision and the quality of the materials and features you choose. The final investment in your home is determined by several factors that are independent of style. These include the level of detail in the design, the quality of materials and fixtures, and the integration of high-end features such as custom cabinetry, home automation, and luxury appliances.

Build Your Legacy with Riverview Custom Homes

Ultimately, the choice is yours. As Calgary’s premier custom luxury home builder, Riverview Custom Homes will help you create your dream home regardless of your preferred style. With a custom build, it’s easy to combine the traditional look with a modern feel to give you the best of both worlds.

Connect with us today and let us help build your legacy.

From Blueprint to Wow: Understanding the Process of Building a Custom Home

Understanding the Process of Building a Custom Home

Building a custom home is an exciting journey—it’s a chance to create a space that perfectly reflects your vision, lifestyle, and taste. At Riverview Custom Homes, we believe this process should be a collaborative, transparent experience. We guide our clients through every step, ensuring that the final result isn’t just a house, but a legacy. As a luxury home builder in Calgary, our goal is to exceed your expectations and show you at every step exactly how we build wow.

This guide outlines the process of building a custom home so you can start your project with confidence.

Key Considerations Before Starting

Before the first shovel hits the ground, a great deal of planning is required. The initial stage is all about defining your vision and laying the groundwork for a successful build.

Define your vision

What does your dream home look like? Think beyond the number of bedrooms; consider the lifestyle you want to live. Do you envision a sprawling outdoor living area for entertaining? A tranquil master suite that feels like a private retreat? A home automation system that puts everything at your fingertips? As a luxury builder, we specialize in making these grand visions a reality, with a commitment to high-end finishes and unique features that set your home apart.

Secure your land

Whether you already own a lot or need to find one, location is a huge decision that you’ll need to make. The lot size, orientation, and local zoning bylaws will influence the design and feasibility of your home, so keep that in mind when searching for the perfect place to call home.

Assemble your team

A successful build relies on a strong partnership. You’ll need to select a builder, architect, and interior designer who understand your vision and have a proven track record of bringing luxurious, complex projects to life.

Timeline Expectations

The timeline for a custom luxury home can vary, but generally, you can expect the process to take anywhere from 12 to 24 months (or longer for more complex projects). This timeline can be broken down into several stages:

  1. Design and Planning (3-6 months): This phase includes architectural design, blueprint development, and securing permits. This is where your dream begins to take shape on paper.
  2. Construction (9-18 months): Once permits are in hand, physical construction can begin. This includes site preparation, foundation work, framing, roofing, and the installation of all interior and exterior systems. This timeline is highly dependent on the complexity of the design, the materials chose, and, of course, the weather.
  3. Finishing (2-4 months): The final stage involves all the details that make a house a home—installing fixtures, cabinetry, flooring, and completing the interior design. This is where your personal style truly shines through.

Understanding Builder Contracts

A clear, detailed contract is the foundation of a good builder-client relationship. A transparent contract with your builder should outline:

  •  Schedule: A breakdown of how and when payments will be made, often tied to key construction milestones.
  • WarrantDetailed Scope of Work: A clear description of all services and materials included in the project, from the foundation to final landscaping.
  • Payment and Guarantees: Information on the warranties provided for the structure, materials, and workmanship, ensuring your investment is protected long-term.
  • Change Order Process: A clear process for handling any changes or additions to the project after the contract is signed. This ensures transparency and avoids unexpected costs.

Budget Planning and Financial Considerations

Building a custom home is a significant financial investment, and a solid budget is essential for a stress-free experience. Beyond the base construction cost, you should factor in:

  • Land Costs: The price of the lot itself.
  • Soft Costs: These include fees for architecture, engineering, permits, and surveys.
  • Lender and Legal Fees: Costs associated with financing your project.
  • Contingency Fund: We recommend setting aside 10-15% of your total budget for unexpected expenses or desired upgrades during construction.

For more detailed information on this topic, we invite you to read our related blog post on The Cost of Building a Custom Home in Calgary.

Turn Your Dream Into a Riverview Custom Home

The process of building a custom home is a testament to your vision. By understanding what to expect on this journey, you can make your dreams a reality with clarity and confidence. At Riverview Custom Homes, we’re committed to making your experience seamless and rewarding, creating a place that’s not just a house, but a true reflection of your legacy.

Ready to start building your legacy? Connect with us today to schedule a consultation.

Riverview Custom Homes: Proudly Canadian

Riverview Custom Homes Proudly Canadian

Happy Canada Day! As we celebrate the true North strong and free, we at Riverview Custom Homes are reminded of the extraordinary landscapes, the vibrant cities, and the boundless spirit that make this country so unique. And just like Canada itself, your dream home should be a celebration of grandeur, a testament to your personal taste, and an embodiment of the luxury lifestyle you deserve.

Crafting Your Canadian Dream

At Riverview Custom Homes, we don’t just build houses – we build wow. Whether it’s a modern masterpiece overlooking the Calgary skyline, a sprawling ranch estate in the foothills of the Rockies, or a sophisticated urban retreat nestled in a coveted community, we bring your vision to life. Our team of award-winning architects, designers, and craftsmen is passionate about creating spaces that not only reflect your unique style but also embody the spirit of Calgary luxury.

More Than Just a House

We believe that building a custom home should be an exhilarating experience, not a stressful one. From the initial consultation to the final walk-through, we guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that every detail is meticulously planned and executed to perfection.
And because we understand that your time is precious, we take care of everything – from securing permits and managing subcontractors to sourcing the finest materials and finishes according to your unique preferences. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and watch your dream home take shape.

Canadian Luxury Redefined

What does Canadian luxury mean to us? It’s not just about opulent finishes and high-end appliances – although we certainly have those in spades. It’s about creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful, that inspire and delight, that make you feel truly at home.
Picture the most lavish living spaces bathed in natural light, gourmet kitchens designed for culinary masterpieces, luxurious master suites that rival the finest hotels, and outdoor living areas that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living.

Celebrating Canada Day in Style

This Canada Day, we raise a glass to our beautiful country and the incredible homes that grace its landscapes. If you’re ready to create your own Canadian dream home, we invite you to connect with us today.


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Building Your Legacy: Understanding the Custom Home-Building Process with Riverview Custom Homes

Understanding the Custom Home-Building Process with Riverview Custom Homes

Embarking on the journey to build a custom luxury home is a significant and exciting venture. At Riverview Custom Homes, we understand that it’s about more than just construction; it’s about crafting a legacy, a unique space that perfectly reflects your vision and lifestyle. We build wow in every detail, ensuring your experience is as seamless and enjoyable as the masterpiece we create.

Before you take your first steps in the custom home building process, read through this comprehensive guide to gain a full understanding of what to expect from start to finish.

Considerations Before the Construction Process

Before breaking ground on your dream home, thoughtful preparation lays the foundation for success, moving beyond simple ideas to concrete plans that will define your future living space.

  • Envisioning Your Lifestyle: Start by envisioning how you want to live in your new home. Consider the flow of daily life, entertaining needs, desired amenities like home offices, fitness studios, or expansive outdoor living areas, and the overall ambiance you wish to cultivate. This deep understanding of your lifestyle will guide every design decision.
  • Site Selection: Where you choose to build your home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in this process. We help you evaluate potential sites for their aesthetic appeal and unique characteristics, such as sun exposure, views, privacy, and how they might influence the architectural design and construction logistics, ensuring optimal integration of your home with its environment.
  • Initial Budgeting and Scope: While your focus is on the quality of your new home, a preliminary understanding of the scope and potential investment is critical. This initial discussion helps align expectations regarding the project’s scale, desired finishes, and unique features, ensuring a shared vision from the outset.

Finding the Right Custom Home Builder

Selecting the ideal partner for your custom home journey is the best way to ensure your vision is realized. By working with a professional custom home builder in Calgary like Riverview Custom Homes, you’ll have the advantage of our expertise and experience.

In your search for a custom home builder, ensure to consider the following:

  • Philosophy & Expertise: Look for a builder with a philosophy that aligns with your own values and a commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction in the luxury market.
  • Client-Centric Approach: A true custom builder prioritizes your needs and desires above everything else. This means fostering open communication, active listening, and a collaborative spirit throughout the entire process.
  • Reputation for Excellence: In the luxury home segment, a builder’s reputation speaks volumes. Seek out testimonials, industry awards, and a track record that demonstrates superior craftsmanship, ethical practices, and a capacity to deliver exceptional results without compromise.

Verify Builder Credentials and References

Thorough due diligence can provide you with objective evidence of a builder’s capabilities and the quality of their past work. Before signing a contract with your chosen custom home builder, be sure to verify any professional affiliations, licences, and industry awards, and confirm that the builder carries comprehensive liability insurance and bonding to protect your investment from unforeseen circumstances.

Designing Your Dream Home

The design phase is where your aspirations take shape, transforming abstract concepts into meticulously detailed blueprints. This phase is a true partnership between you, our architects, and interior designers, working together to translate your lifestyle and vision into a functional design that absolutely wows.

At Riverview Custom Homes, we create bespoke architectural solutions where the only limit is your imagination. If you can dream it, we can build it – from multi-storey great rooms to indoor sports courts, elaborate home spas, or even a hidden speakeasy. Your vision, no matter how grand or unique, becomes our blueprint for your extraordinary reality.

Understanding the New Home Construction Contract

A comprehensive and clear construction contract is the bedrock of a successful custom home build. It serves as a roadmap for both the client and the builder, defining the scope of work, outlining payment schedules, and laying out any provisions for potential changes.

Unlike a standard home purchase agreement, a custom home contract is highly specialized, accounting for design changes, material selections, and the collaborative nature of the building process.

Key Components of Your Construction Contract:

  • A detailed scope of work encompassing everything from site prep to final landscaping
  • Specific material quality and types
  • Clear guidelines on handling overages or underages
  • A clear payment schedule that’s tied to specific construction milestones
  • A defined process for managing change orders

Payment Schedules and Financing

While quality is the priority when you’re in the custom home building process, understanding financing options and the payment schedule is an important step for any home buyer. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Custom home construction usually involves milestone-based progress payments, disbursed as specific stages are completed and verified.
  • Specialized construction mortgages are common, with funds released in stages as work progresses. We can assist you in gathering the necessary documentation for your lender.
  • Riverview Custom Homes maintains transparency in all financial dealings. For a deeper dive into the investment involved in building a custom home, explore our guide on the Cost of Building a Custom Home in Calgary.

Warranties and Protection for New Homeowners

Any reputable luxury builder should stand behind their work with warranties that provide buyers with long-term peace of mind and ensure the lasting quality of their investment.

New custom homes generally come with multi-tiered warranty coverage. At Riverview Custom Homes, we provide buyers with the following warranty through Progressive Home Warranty:

  • 1-year materials and labour warranty
  • 2-year mechanical systems warranty
  • 5-year envelope protection
  • 10-year, $60,000 structural defects warranty
  • $25,000 deposit security warranty
  • $6,000 additional living expenses coverage

Understanding Permits and Inspections

The permit and inspection process is a necessary administrative step that ensures your home meets local building codes and safety standards. At Riverview Custom Homes, we expertly manage this process, preparing and submitting all architectural plans and documentation to the City of Calgary for approval.

We prioritize timely approvals, utilizing our established relationships with municipal departments to streamline the process and minimize potential delays. We also seamlessly coordinate scheduled inspections by city officials at every step of the custom home-building process, ensuring your home passes all compliance checks.

Stages of New Home Construction

From initial groundbreaking to the final touches, the construction of your custom home unfolds through a series of carefully managed stages, each bringing your vision closer to reality.

  • Site Preparation and Foundation: This initial phase involves preparing the land, including grading and excavation, followed by the pouring of the foundation, which forms the base of your home.
  • Framing and Exterior Shell: Once the foundation is solid, the framing goes up, outlining the structure of your home. This is followed by the installation of the roof, windows, and exterior doors.
  • Rough-Ins: In this stage, mechanical systems are installed, including all plumbing lines, HVAC ductwork, electrical wiring, and integrated smart home technology infrastructure.
  • Insulation and Drywall: Insulation is installed to ensure energy efficiency and comfort, followed by the hanging and finishing of drywall, which creates the interior walls and ceilings.
  • Interior Finishing: This is where luxury comes to life. High-end cabinetry, flooring, interior doors, trim, custom millwork, paint, and fixtures are all meticulously installed at this stage, reflecting your chosen aesthetic.
  • Exterior Finishing and Landscaping: The exterior siding, stone, and other cladding are applied, along with the construction of decks, patios, and initial landscaping to enhance curb appeal and outdoor living spaces.
  • Final Inspections and Walk-Through: After all construction is complete, a series of final inspections is conducted, followed by a comprehensive walk-through with you to review every detail and ensure your absolute satisfaction before handing over the keys.

Build Your Legacy with Riverview Custom Homes

At Riverview Custom Homes, our commitment to unparalleled quality, bespoke design, and client satisfaction ensures that your custom home-building journey will be an extraordinary experience, culminating in a residence that truly embodies your legacy.

To learn more about our process or to take the first step in building your legacy, connect with us today.