by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Oct 30, 2025 | custom home builder
When you build a custom home, you’re not just creating a space that fits your lifestyle, you’re also making one of the most important financial investments of your life. Whether you plan to stay for decades or sell in the future, the goal is the same: to increase your custom home value over time.
At Select Design & Build, we specialize in helping homeowners in Bend, Oregon design and build homes that stand the test of time. From smart planning to thoughtful upgrades, here are five proven ways to boost the long-term value of your custom home while ensuring it remains beautiful and functional for years to come.
1. Choose a Timeless Design and Quality Materials
Trends come and go, but quality craftsmanship and timeless design never go out of style. When planning your custom home, select an architectural style that complements the Bend, OR landscape and community while reflecting your personal taste.
Investing in high-quality materials for both the interior and exterior is one of the best ways to ensure long-term value. Durable finishes like hardwood flooring, stone countertops, and energy-efficient windows not only enhance beauty but also reduce maintenance costs down the road.
At Select Design & Build, we guide homeowners through material selections that balance luxury, performance, and longevity, creating homes that age gracefully and maintain strong resale appeal.
2. Prioritize Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
In Central Oregon’s climate, energy efficiency is a top priority for modern homeowners. Adding sustainable features not only helps the environment but also directly increases your home’s value and lowers long-term operating costs.
Consider integrating:
- Energy-efficient insulation and windows
- Solar panels or renewable energy systems
- Smart thermostats and automated lighting
- Water-saving plumbing fixtures
- Sustainable, locally sourced materials
These upgrades appeal to today’s eco-conscious buyers and can significantly boost home resale value in Bend, OR. Plus, they make daily living more comfortable and cost-effective.
3. Focus on Functional Spaces and Smart Layouts
When building a home in Bend, Oregon, your layout matters just as much as your finishes. Flexible floor plans with open living areas, dedicated workspaces, and functional storage are highly desirable features that stand the test of time.
Consider future needs as well. A main-level primary suite, accessible entryways, and multipurpose rooms add flexibility and make your home appealing to a wider range of buyers. Thoughtful space planning today ensures your home remains practical and valuable for years to come.
At Select Design & Build, our design process emphasizes both beauty and livability. We take time to understand how you live so that every inch of your home works for you now and into the future.
4. Add Strategic Custom Home Upgrades
Upgrades are what transform a beautiful home into an exceptional one. The key is choosing custom home upgrades that offer both luxury and lasting value. Not all improvements carry the same return, so focus on enhancements that elevate functionality and style.
Some smart upgrade ideas include:
- A gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances
- Spa-inspired bathrooms with walk-in showers and soaking tubs
- Outdoor living spaces with covered patios or fireplaces
- Built-in storage or custom cabinetry
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems
When these features are integrated seamlessly into your home’s design, they create a lasting impression while maximizing value and comfort.
5. Maintain Your Home with Care and Routine Updates
Even the best-built homes need ongoing care. Regular maintenance keeps your home in excellent condition and preserves its long-term worth. Schedule seasonal inspections, update paint or finishes as needed, and stay proactive about small repairs before they become larger issues.
Over time, consider periodic updates to keep your home feeling modern. Replacing outdated fixtures, refreshing landscaping, or updating your exterior paint can all provide great returns. The key to long-term value for custom homes is balancing timeless design with selective modernization.
At Select Design & Build, we often assist past clients with maintenance advice and design refreshes, helping them continue to protect their investment year after year.
Building with Value in Mind
A custom home should reflect your personality while also being a smart financial decision. When you focus on quality, efficiency, and thoughtful design, your investment will reward you for years to come, both in comfort and in resale potential.
Select Design & Build has helped countless homeowners in Bend, Oregon create stunning, high-value homes that combine luxury and livability. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your plans, our expert team can guide you through every decision to ensure your dream home is also a wise investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What home features add the most long-term value?
A: Energy efficiency, high-quality materials, and functional layouts tend to add the most value. Kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor living spaces also provide strong returns when designed with timeless appeal.
Q: How can I make sure my custom home holds its value in Bend, OR?
A: Choose durable materials, invest in sustainability, and design with future needs in mind. Working with an experienced builder like Select Design & Build ensures your home aligns with local market trends and long-term value goals.
Q: Are luxury upgrades worth the investment?
A: Yes, when chosen wisely. Strategic upgrades such as premium kitchens, energy-efficient systems, and spa-like bathrooms can enhance daily living while improving resale potential.
Q: How often should I update my home to maintain its value?
A: Small updates every few years, like fresh paint, modern fixtures, or landscaping improvements, help keep your home current. Major updates can be planned every 10–15 years to stay aligned with evolving design trends.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Oct 20, 2025 | custom home builder
Building a custom home is one of life’s most exciting milestones. But before the first shovel hits the ground, there’s a lot of groundwork, literally and figuratively, that needs to be done. From securing permits to finalizing your design, the pre-construction checklist is your guide to a smooth, stress-free experience.
At Select Design & Build, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Bend, Oregon turn their dream homes into reality. Our team knows that the success of every project depends on thoughtful preparation and communication. Let’s walk through the essential steps before building a home so you can start your project with confidence.
Step 1: Define Your Vision and Budget
Every successful build begins with a clear vision. Ask yourself: What style of home do you want? What features are most important to your family? Are you building a forever home or an investment property?
Once you have a vision, establish a realistic budget. Include the cost of land, materials, permits, and professional fees, as well as a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Having a solid financial plan in place will help your builder guide you through decisions that balance quality and cost efficiency.
Step 2: Choose the Right Lot
If you haven’t purchased land yet, location should be one of your top priorities. Think about your lifestyle and how your surroundings will support it, proximity to schools, views, privacy, and neighborhood amenities all matter.
In Bend, OR, the terrain can vary significantly. That’s why working with a team familiar with the area is key. At Select Design & Build, our team assesses slope, soil condition, and site access to ensure your future home’s foundation is sound and construction-ready.
Step 3: Assemble Your Design and Build Team
When preparing to build a home in Bend, OR, the professionals you choose will make all the difference. You’ll need an architect or designer to bring your vision to life, and a trusted builder who understands how to execute that vision efficiently.
At Select Design & Build, we combine both design and construction under one roof. This integrated approach streamlines communication, reduces delays, and ensures every detail, from layout to lighting is planned with precision and care.
Step 4: Finalize Your Custom Home Plans
This is where creativity meets practicality. Your home’s layout, materials, and finishes should reflect your lifestyle, while staying within your budget and local building requirements.
A few custom home planning tips to keep in mind:
- Consider future needs, such as aging in place or family expansion.
- Prioritize energy efficiency and sustainable materials.
- Plan for natural light, flow, and functionality in every space.
- Review your plans with your builder before finalizing to ensure structural feasibility and cost alignment.
Taking the time to refine your design upfront saves money and prevents changes once construction begins.
Step 5: Secure Permits and Approvals
One of the most critical items on your new construction checklist is permitting. In Bend, Oregon, local regulations require permits for site work, electrical, plumbing, and structural construction. The process can be complex, but your builder can help navigate it.
At Select Design & Build, we handle permit coordination on your behalf to make sure your project complies with all city and county regulations. This proactive step helps prevent costly delays once construction begins.
Step 6: Plan Your Timeline
Building a home in Bend, Oregon involves multiple phases: site preparation, foundation, framing, installation, and finishes. Establishing a clear timeline with your builder ensures everyone stays on the same page.
Weather can impact schedules in Central Oregon, so it’s wise to build flexibility into your plan. A good builder will keep you updated throughout the process and adjust timelines as needed to maintain quality and consistency.
Step 7: Prepare the Site
Before construction starts, your lot must be properly prepared. This may involve grading, clearing vegetation, and installing utilities like water and power. Site preparation lays the foundation for everything that follows, so attention to detail here is critical.
Select Design & Build oversees every aspect of site readiness, ensuring your property is safe, accessible, and construction-ready before the first day of work.
Start Your Build with Confidence
A well-prepared pre-construction plan doesn’t just save time, it ensures your dream home is built with precision and peace of mind. From the first blueprint to the final inspection, Select Design & Build is committed to making your home-building experience seamless, transparent, and enjoyable.
Whether you’re just starting your design journey or ready to break ground, our team is here to guide you through every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the pre-construction phase usually take?
A: The pre-construction process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on design complexity, permitting, and site preparation. At Select Design & Build, we help you move efficiently through each stage to keep your project on schedule.
Q: What should I know about building a home in Bend, Oregon?
A: Building in Bend requires attention to local zoning, weather conditions, and land characteristics. Our team has extensive experience with Central Oregon’s unique terrain and ensures your home is designed and built to withstand local conditions.
Q: How can I make sure my home design stays within budget?
A: We provide transparent pricing, regular budget reviews, and proactive communication during the design phase to prevent costly surprises. Collaboration between design and construction helps you make informed decisions that align with your financial goals.
Q: Do I need to have my land purchased before starting the design process?
A: Not necessarily. Our team can assist you in evaluating potential lots for feasibility, slope, and soil quality before purchase to ensure the property fits your vision and budget.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Oct 10, 2025 | custom home builder
Building your first custom home is one of the most exciting and rewarding milestones in life. It’s your chance to create a space that truly reflects your lifestyle, taste, and future needs. But for many first-time custom home builders, the process can also feel overwhelming. Between budgeting, design decisions, and construction timelines, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect both your experience and your results.
At Select Design & Build, we’ve helped countless clients navigate their first custom home project successfully. Based in Bend, OR, our team guides homeowners through every step, helping them avoid common pitfalls and enjoy the process of bringing their dream home to life. Below, we share the top five custom home building mistakes first-timers make and how to avoid them.
1. Skipping the Planning Phase
Many people are so eager to see construction start that they rush through planning. This can lead to overlooked details, design regrets, or costly changes later.
Your home should fit both your current and future lifestyle. Take the time to think about how you live: Do you need a home office? A large kitchen for entertaining? Space for future family growth or aging in place?
At Select Design & Build, we start with a Discovery and Visioning phase to fully understand your daily rhythms, priorities, and vision. By clarifying your needs early, you set the foundation for a design that works beautifully for years to come.
Tip: Never underestimate the value of thoughtful new construction planning. The more detailed your design phase, the smoother your build will be.
2. Not Setting a Realistic Budget
Budget surprises are one of the biggest frustrations for first-time custom home builders. Many clients focus solely on square footage costs, forgetting about site prep, permitting, upgrades, and landscaping.
A reliable builder will provide a transparent, itemized estimate and help you plan for contingencies. At Select Design & Build, we believe in full cost transparency, so you always know where your investment is going.
Tip: Add a 10–15% buffer for unexpected costs. Custom homes often evolve during construction, and flexibility ensures you can make those “must-have” design choices confidently.
3. Choosing the Wrong Builder
Your builder isn’t just a contractor, they’re your partner for the next several months (or longer). Choosing based on price alone is a common custom home building mistake that can lead to miscommunication, delays, and disappointing workmanship.
Look for a builder who:
- Has experience in building a custom home in Bend, OR or your local area.
- Provides clear communication and regular updates.
- Uses high-quality materials and trusted trade partners.
- Values collaboration and transparency.
At Select Design & Build, we pride ourselves on precision craftsmanship, clear communication, and lasting relationships. From design consultation to final walk-through, you’re never left guessing what’s next.
4. Ignoring Function for Aesthetics
Everyone loves a beautiful design, but functionality should always come first. A stunning open-concept layout isn’t practical if noise travels too easily, and oversized windows can impact energy efficiency.
Our design team takes a holistic approach, blending beauty with livability. We help clients balance what looks good with what works for their lifestyle, whether that’s optimizing natural light, designing better storage solutions, or creating seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Tip: When you’re reviewing plans, picture yourself living in the space. Where do you drop your keys? How do you move between the kitchen and outdoor area? Thinking practically early on saves you from layout regrets later.
5. Underestimating the Timeline
Custom homes take time, especially when done right. Permitting delays, weather, or custom materials can extend timelines. Rushing your builder only increases stress and mistakes.
At Select Design & Build, we prioritize precision and quality over speed. Our detailed process and project management systems help keep things on track while ensuring every element, from foundation to finishes, meets the highest standards.
Tip: Plan your move-in with flexibility. Building a custom home is a major investment, and giving your builder adequate time ensures your vision comes to life perfectly.
Avoid Mistakes, Build With Confidence
Avoiding these common pitfalls starts with partnering with a builder who understands the emotional and financial investment behind your new home. At Select Design & Build, we make the process collaborative, transparent, and deeply personal.
Our in-house team of architects, designers, and craftsmen handle every step, from customization and planning to construction and final detailing. We’re here to make sure your dream home isn’t just beautiful, but also built to last.
When you’re ready to start building a custom home in Bend, OR, trust a team that knows how to bring your vision to life with care and expertise.
Schedule Your Consultation with Select Design & Build
Your home should reflect your story, your values, and your lifestyle. Whether you’re planning your first custom build or exploring new possibilities, we’ll guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.
Start your new build consultation today and discover how Select Design & Build can turn your ideas into a home that’s uniquely yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to build a custom home?
A: Most custom homes take between 10–16 months, depending on the design complexity, lot conditions, and permitting timelines.
Q: How much should I budget for my first custom home?
A: Costs vary based on size, materials, and finishes. We recommend planning for a base estimate plus a 10–15% buffer for flexibility.
Q: Can I make changes during the build?
A: Yes, but it’s best to finalize as many decisions as possible during the design phase. Changes later in construction can affect cost and timeline.
Q: What makes Select Design & Build different from other builders?
A: We focus on collaboration, precision craftsmanship, and long-term durability. Our in-house team handles everything from design to construction with complete transparency.
Q: How can I get started?
A: Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your vision, goals, and budget. We’ll help you plan every detail of your dream home from the ground up.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Oct 8, 2025 | custom home builder
Building a custom home is one of the most exciting investments you can make. It is a chance to create a space that reflects your lifestyle, values, and vision for the future. But when it comes to planning your custom home budget, the process can feel overwhelming. Many homeowners worry that cutting costs will mean cutting quality. The truth is, with the right approach and the right builder, you can balance both.
At Select Design & Build in Bend, OR, we specialize in creating homes that combine craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and financial transparency. Here’s how to approach budgeting for a custom home so you can achieve the dream home you want without overspending.
Understanding Custom Home Building Costs
The first step in planning is knowing where the money goes. Custom home building costs include land preparation, design, materials, labor, permits, and finishing details. Each choice, from square footage to flooring, influences your final budget.
Working with an experienced Bend, OR home builder ensures you know what to expect before breaking ground. At Select Design & Build, we are transparent with costs at every stage so there are no surprises.
Define Your Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves
A big part of staying within your custom home budget is prioritizing. Sit down and list what you absolutely need in your new home and what you’d like if the budget allows. For example, a gourmet kitchen may be essential if you love cooking, while a home theater might be something you can add later.
This simple step prevents overspending on items that don’t align with your lifestyle. Our design team helps clients separate the “must-haves” from the “wants” so that resources go toward what matters most.
Work with a Collaborative Builder
Budgeting is not just about numbers. It is about working with a team that listens and offers solutions. At Select Design & Build, we take a collaborative approach:
- Discovery and Visioning: We start by understanding your goals, your daily life, and how you imagine using your home.
- Design and Customization: Our architects and designers create plans that match your vision and your budget.
- Precision Craftsmanship: Our skilled builders and trusted trade partners ensure every detail meets high standards.
- Long-Term Thinking: We design with the future in mind, incorporating flexibility for growing families, changing needs, and aging in place.
This process allows us to build a home without overspending while keeping quality as the foundation.
Cost-Saving Tips for Custom Homes
Here are a few practical cost-saving tips for a custom home:
- Simplify your design: Fewer corners, complex rooflines, or unusual layouts mean less cost.
- Choose smart materials: Durable, mid-range finishes often deliver long-term value without the price tag of luxury brands.
- Plan for energy efficiency: Upfront investment in insulation, windows, and efficient systems reduces costs over time.
- Think about future upgrades: Design your home with the option to add features later instead of stretching your budget now.
With guidance from an experienced Bend OR home builder, you can maximize your budget without giving up the quality details that make your home special.
Examples of Thoughtful Customization
Our clients often worry that staying on budget means settling for “standard.” But with thoughtful planning, creativity, and trade partnerships, we consistently deliver homes that feel one-of-a-kind.
- A vaulted great room with sliding doors that connect indoor and outdoor living.
- A spa-inspired bathroom with dual vanities and heated floors, designed within budget parameters.
- Specialty spaces like home offices, artist studios, and gyms tailored to family needs.
- Outdoor enhancements such as fire pits and kitchens that make entertaining easy.
Every home we build is designed to reflect the personality and lifestyle of the family who will live there.
Why Choose Select Design & Build
As a Bend, OR home builder, Select Design & Build brings together the artistry of custom design and the accountability of transparent budgeting. We understand that your home is not just a project. It is where your story unfolds.
We are committed to:
- Clear communication and updates throughout the process.
- Honest pricing with no hidden surprises.
- Craftsmanship that lasts for generations.
- Designs that blend functionality, luxury, and comfort.
When you choose Select, you are choosing a partner dedicated to building your dream home with both precision and care.
Bring Your Dream Home to Life
You don’t have to choose between quality and cost. With the right planning and the right team, your dream home is within reach. At Select Design & Build, we guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your custom home budget supports both your vision and your financial peace of mind.
Ready to begin your journey? Contact Select Design & Build today to start your new build consultation and see how we can bring your dream home to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know what my custom home budget should be?
A: Your budget depends on location, size, design complexity, and finishes. We’ll walk you through each cost so you can make informed choices.
Q: Can I build a custom home without overspending?
A: Yes. With careful planning, prioritization, and a transparent builder, you can stay on budget while still achieving the quality you want.
Q: What are the biggest factors that affect custom home building costs?
A: Land preparation, materials, labor, square footage, and design features are the main drivers.
Q: Can I make changes during construction?
A: Yes, but changes can affect both cost and timeline. We encourage making as many decisions as possible during the design phase.
Q: Why choose a local Bend OR home builder like Select?
A: Local builders have established relationships with trade partners, knowledge of regional conditions, and a commitment to serving the community.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Sep 25, 2025 | custom home builder
Building a custom home is exciting, but it’s also a big commitment. With so many decisions to make — from layout and materials to budget and finishes — it’s easy to overlook details that later cause frustration. Many homeowners experience what’s known as “custom home regret” when choices don’t match their lifestyle, budget, or long-term goals.
The good news is that most of these challenges can be avoided with the right preparation. Here are five practical steps to guide you through the process of building a custom home in Bend OR (or anywhere else).
1. Spend Time on Design Planning
One of the most common custom home mistakes to avoid is rushing the design phase. Floor plans, room flow, storage solutions, and window placement all impact how a home feels day to day.
Tip: Use the design stage to think about how your family will live in the space five or ten years from now. Consider things like flexible rooms, natural light, and storage before construction begins.
2. Set a Clear, Realistic Budget
Costs can add up quickly. Without a realistic budget, upgrades and changes during construction may lead to financial stress.
Tip: Build in a buffer for unexpected expenses, and ask for itemized estimates so you understand where the money is going.
3. Choose the Right Location
A custom home is only as good as the land it’s built on. Slope, drainage, views, and neighborhood features all affect long-term satisfaction.
Tip: If you’re building in Central Oregon, think about how your lot will handle snow, where the best mountain views are, and how close you’ll be to schools, trails, or downtown Bend.
4. Prioritize Communication
Even well-planned projects run into challenges. When homeowners and builders don’t stay in sync, small misunderstandings can turn into larger issues.
Tip: Set expectations for regular updates, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. The more open the communication, the smoother the project will run.
5. Work With an Experienced Builder
The experience of your builder plays a huge role in how your project turns out. A good partner will guide you through custom home building tips, help you avoid unnecessary costs, and ensure craftsmanship meets your expectations.
Tip: Look for a builder with local experience and a reputation for transparency. Ask to see past projects and talk with previous clients.
Final Thoughts
A custom home should reflect your lifestyle and bring long-term satisfaction. By focusing on careful planning, realistic budgeting, smart lot selection, consistent communication, and partnering with the right team, you can confidently move forward and avoid custom home regret.
If you’re ready to start planning your dream home, Select Design & Build is here to help. As a custom home builder in Bend Oregon, our team combines experience, transparency, and local knowledge to guide clients through every step; from design planning to the final walk-through.
FAQs
What are the most common custom home mistakes to avoid?
Rushing design, underestimating the budget, and not clarifying expectations with your builder.
How do I make sure my home design fits my lifestyle?
Spend extra time in the design stage and think about both current needs and how they might change in the future.
What should I know about building a custom home in Bend OR?
Weather, terrain, and lot features all play an important role in planning. It’s worth working with a builder familiar with Central Oregon’s unique conditions.
How long does the process usually take?
Most custom home projects take several months from planning through completion, depending on size and complexity.
Why is builder selection so important?
The right builder will provide guidance, reduce stress, and ensure the home is built to your expectations.
by mallisha.barnes@20four7va.net | Sep 25, 2025 | custom home builder
When designing the perfect backyard, many homeowners weigh the choice of a deck vs patio in Bend OR. Both options can add beauty, comfort, and value to your home, but the right solution depends on your property, lifestyle, and long-term plans. If you’re exploring outdoor living space ideas and working with a custom home builder in Bend Oregon, here’s a breakdown of the deck and patio pros and cons to help you make the best decision.
Decks: Elevated Outdoor Living
Decks are raised structures, often built with wood or composite materials, that connect seamlessly to your home.
Pros of Decks:
- Great for uneven yards: Perfect if your property has slopes or elevation changes common in Central Oregon.
- Views and airflow: Elevated designs allow you to enjoy sweeping mountain views and fresh breezes.
- Resale appeal: A professionally built deck often adds strong value to a home, making it attractive to buyers.
Cons of Decks:
- Maintenance: Wood decks need regular sealing and staining to handle Bend’s weather. Composite materials last longer but cost more upfront.
- Lifespan: Without proper care, decks may need repairs sooner than patios.
Patios: Ground-Level Comfort and Durability
Patios are built directly on the ground, typically using stone, concrete, or pavers.
Pros of Patios:
- Durability: Pavers or stone patios can last decades with minimal upkeep.
- Design flexibility: Patios can be customized with curved layouts, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens.
- Affordability: Generally more cost-effective to build than decks.
Cons of Patios:
- Level ground required: Yards may need excavation if not already flat.
- Drainage needs: Without proper planning, patios can shift or crack over time.
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re asking yourself whether to build a deck or patio, here are a few considerations:
- Choose a Deck if your property is sloped or you want elevated views of Bend’s mountains and landscapes.
- Choose a Patio if you prefer long-lasting, low-maintenance surfaces that blend naturally into your landscaping.
- Choose Both if your backyard allows it. Many backyard design Bend Oregon projects incorporate both to create multi-level outdoor living spaces.
At Select Design & Build, we specialize in creating outdoor spaces that reflect your lifestyle and add long-term value. Whether you envision a ground-level stone patio for hosting or a raised deck for relaxing evenings, our team of experts can bring your project to life.
FAQs
What adds more value in Bend OR — a deck or a patio?
Both add value, but decks often appeal to buyers looking for views, while patios attract those wanting low-maintenance, ground-level living.
How long does it take to build?
Decks are typically completed in a few weeks. Patios can vary based on excavation and material choice.
Which materials are best for Central Oregon weather?
Composite decking and pavers hold up especially well. Wood and concrete are options but require more upkeep.
Can you customize with features like fire pits or pergolas?
Yes. Both decks and patios can include outdoor kitchens, pergolas, lighting, or built-in seating.
Does Select Design & Build offer deck and patio projects?
Yes. As a custom home builder in Bend Oregon, we design and build outdoor living spaces that fit your vision and property.
