Frequently Asked Questions About
Custom Homes
NThese are the custom home FAQs we hear most often from families just starting to think about building, to clients deep in the design phase. We believe in answering every question directly. No vague responses. No “it depends” without an explanation. If something isn’t covered here, call us at (515) 423-2614. We’ll give you a straight answer.
Pricing & Contracts
The builder questions we get most involve money. That’s healthy. Here’s how we handle pricing.
What is the average square-foot cost for a home?
We don't quote by the square foot. Every home is different. A 3,000-square-foot home with a standard kitchen costs very differently from one with a chef's kitchen and custom millwork throughout. We provide a fixed price based on your specific design and selections. Not a generic per-foot number.
What is the price range for a Claman custom home?
Our custom homes range from $400K to $2.5M. The final number depends on size, complexity, lot conditions, and finish selections. You'll receive a fixed-price contract with full transparency before we break ground.
What is the average square-foot cost for a home?
We don't quote by the square foot. Every home is different. A 3,000-square-foot home with a standard kitchen costs very differently from one with a chef's kitchen and custom millwork throughout. We provide a fixed price based on your specific design and selections. Not a generic per-foot number.
How do you handle unexpected costs or changes during the build?
Our fixed-price contract covers the full scope of work we agreed to. If you request a change, we price it before any work happens. You approve it, or you don't, no surprise invoices. Every dollar is accounted for before it's spent.
How does construction financing work?
We finance the build ourselves. You don't need a construction loan. When the home is complete, you close with a traditional mortgage. This eliminates months of bank paperwork, draw schedules, and inspections. It's one of the biggest stress reducers in our process.
Process & Timeline
Understanding the home-building FAQ on timelines and processes helps set realistic expectations from day one.
How long does a typical build take from design to move-in?
It depends on the size of your home and the selections you make — simpler builds move faster, larger custom homes take longer. Rather than guess, we walk every client through a detailed schedule at the feasibility meeting so you know exactly what to expect. Book a consultation and we'll map out your timeline together.
What is The Claman Way?
The Claman Way is our structured 10-step build process. It covers everything from your first discovery call to the day you get your keys. Every decision is informed. Every cost is transparent. Every phase has a clear owner on our team. Visit our Process page for the full breakdown.
How often will we communicate during the build?
Regularly. You'll receive updates through our project management system. Your project manager handles day-to-day communication. You'll also have direct access to Jeff and the rest of the team. We don't go dark. You'll never have to chase us for an update.
Design & Customization
Do I need my own floor plan to get started?
No. Most clients start with a blank page. Our team designs your floor plan from scratch, tailored to how your family lives. If you have inspiration photos, Pinterest boards, or plans from an architect, we'll work from those, too.
Do you use our architect or yours?
Either way works. Many clients use our architectural partners because they understand our build standards and process. If you have an architect you prefer, we're happy to collaborate with them. Our in-house designer works alongside whichever architect is involved.
Who guides our design selections?
Erin Feddersen, our Director of Design. She has over 15 years of professional experience. She's a qualified designer who understands construction timelines and budgets, not an order taker. Erin was recognized as Best Local Interior Designer by CityView in 2026.
Can I use your Design Library plans as a starting point?
Absolutely. Every plan in our Design Library is fully customizable. Move walls. Add rooms. Swap the kitchen layout. You can also combine features from multiple plans. No two Claman homes are ever the same, even when they start from the same design.
How do I get design inspiration for my project?
Browse our Design Library for floor plan ideas. Visit our Gallery to see completed homes. Follow us on Instagram for current project updates. Or bring your own inspiration magazine pages, Pinterest boards, or photos from open houses. We'll use all of it during the design phase.
Lots & Locations
Do you help with lot selection and due diligence?
Yes. Our licensed realtors, Scot Bergman and Sonya Claman, evaluate lots for buildability, drainage, orientation, utility access, and community fit. We never let a client commit to a lot until we know their home will work on it.
What areas do you serve?
Our primary focus is on West Des Moines, Waukee, Clive, Urbandale, Johnston, and Ankeny. We also take on select projects in Norwalk, Cumming, and Lake communities for builds over $800K. Visit our Locations page for details on each community.
Can I build on land I already own?
Yes. If your lot is in one of our service areas, we'll evaluate the site and build on it. We assess drainage, soil, setbacks, and orientation before design begins.
What's the difference between walkout, daylight, and flat lots?
A walkout lot slopes enough for a ground-level basement exit. A daylight lot has partial lower-level exposure with windows but no walkout door. A flat lot sits level with the street. Each type affects your floor plan options and build cost. We'll guide you through the decision.
About Our Company
When families are researching questions to ask a home builder, these are the ones that reveal how a company actually operates.
Do you build fully custom homes?
Both. Our primary focus is on fully custom homes in Central Iowa designed around your vision and budget. We also build spec homes with the same Claman craftsmanship. Check our Available Homes page for current inventory.
What makes Claman Custom Homes different from other builders?
Fixed-price contracts. In-house professional designer. Construction financing that eliminates your loan burden. 10 to 12 homes per year by choice. And direct access to Jeff and a small, experienced team throughout the entire process.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
It depends on the size of your home and the selections you make — simpler builds move faster, larger custom homes take longer. Rather than guess, we walk every client through a detailed schedule at the feasibility meeting so you know exactly what to expect. Book a consultation and we'll map out your timeline together.
Do you offer warranty coverage after move-in?
Yes. Full warranty documentation is provided before construction begins. After move-in, our team remains available. We don't disappear once you have the keys.
Spec Homes & Available Homes
Are spec homes built with the same quality as your custom homes?
Yes. Same team. Same subcontractors. Same materials. Same standards. The only difference is that the design decisions were made by us rather than by you.
Can I make changes to a spec home?
If the home is still under construction, some finish selections may be available. Once complete, what you see is what you get.
How soon can I move into a spec home?
Completed homes are available immediately after closing. Homes under construction are typically weeks to a few months out. Check our Available Homes page for current inventory and status.
Still Have a Question?
We'd rather answer it directly than have you guess. Call us at (515) 423-2614 or send us a message. A real member of our team will respond within 24 hours.