
Already own land? Start with what the lot will actually cost to build on.
The biggest budget surprises on a custom home usually come from the site, not the house. Before you pay for plans, we review your lot the way a developer would — because we develop land ourselves.
What we check on every lot
Zoning and what's allowed
Setbacks, height, lot coverage, and whether a duplex, ADU, or second unit is permitted. Rules differ between the City of Spokane, Spokane Valley, unincorporated Spokane County, and Idaho jurisdictions.
Utilities
Where water, sewer, power, and gas are — and how far they have to travel. A long water or sewer extension can change a budget more than any finish selection. We've installed water lines and utility infrastructure on our own subdivision work.
Septic and soils
On rural lots, septic feasibility and soil conditions can dictate where the house goes and what it costs. We tell you what testing is needed before design is locked in.
Access, grading, and drainage
Driveway length and slope, fire access, stormwater, and how much earthwork the foundation will need — including daylight-basement potential on sloped lots.
HOA and CC&R restrictions
Many North Idaho and Spokane County neighborhoods have covenants covering minimum square footage, exterior materials, rooflines, setbacks, and architectural review. We turn the covenants into a checklist before design, so the plan doesn't have to be redrawn later.
Permit path and timeline
Which agency reviews the project, what reports are likely needed, and a realistic permit timeline — so your schedule is based on the jurisdiction, not optimism.
Don't own land yet?
Tell us where you want to live and your rough budget. We can help you evaluate lots before you buy, so you know the likely site costs before you make an offer.
Projects we've built
Newport River House
~6,000 sq ft riverfront custom home · Newport, WA
See the project →
Greenacres Residence
Modern farmhouse with finished basement · Spokane Valley
See the project →
Elcliff Duplex
Our in-house duplex design · North Spokane
See the project →
Nixon Ave Subdivision
Raw land to 8 build-ready lots · Spokane
See the project →Have a lot, a plan, or just an idea?
Tell us what you want to build. Austin or Tysen will get back to you within one business day with an honest read on whether we're the right fit and where to start.