Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to coordinate the architect and interior designer with the custom home builder? 

The sooner the Homeowner, Architect, Builder and Designer are aligned with the budget, the better for everyone.  The custom home builder has the latest costs associated with structural and design ideas; thus, providing advice on the cost of the home while still in design.  We can also recommend a number of architects and designers with whom we have successfully built custom homes and who have provided exceptional experiences for our clients.

Do you have model/spec homes from which to select?

No, we do not sell spec homes. We build one-of-a-kind, custom homes designed specifically for our homeowners.

Do you have in-house Architects or Designers?

We work with a number of licensed Architects and Designers, both in- and out-of-state.  Often, our homeowners bring Design Teams, Architects and/or Designers that they have worked with in the past.  If the homeowner does not have a preferred Architect or Designer, we can make a recommendation or include these services in our scope of work.

Do you do small remodels/custom homes?

We specialize in building or remodeling finely crafted, luxury, custom homes.  A typical remodel begins at $600,000.  This minimum is driven by a complexity and cost that justifies the expense of Merlin’s hands-on, attention-to-detail supervision.

Typically, how long does it take to build a custom home from start to finish?

Anywhere from 12-24 months; depending on the scope of work and design sophistication.

Do you have a square footage minimum?

The minimum cost of Merlin’s homes and remodels are driven by our commitment to on-site supervision and office-client communication.  We are proud of our experienced superintendents and project managers that are all trained in the “Merlin Way”.  These supervisory remodel costs, that create Merlin’s quality and efficiency, are best amortized with a minimum remodel budget of $600,000.  The construction of a 5,000 square foot home today requires a budget of over three and a half million dollars.

What is the process for building a Custom Home?

1) Develop an all-in budget for a) Architect/engineering; b) Design Team; c) lot; d) home’s construction; and e) furnishings.  2) Select a Design Team (Architect and Interior Designer).  3) Select a Builder.  4) Find a desirable lot, within budget, that allows enough remaining budget to design, build and furnish the home.  5) Work with the Architect/Design Team and Builder to design, engineer and furnish a home that fits within the established budget.