Build On Your Lot

Frequently asked questions

Pricing, financing paths, and common questions about building on your own lot with FD Builds — based on our guide for homeowners, realtors, and lenders.

Do I need to own the lot already?

Not necessarily — many buyers are under contract or still evaluating parcels. Share what you have (address, survey, or parcel info) and we can advise on next steps.

What will it cost to build on my lot?

Every lot is different, so we approach pricing in two stages. First, a free ballpark estimate based on standard site conditions for one of our home plans — a starting point for affordability and financing conversations before you spend a dime. Second, for buyers ready to move forward, a firm site-specific quote for a chosen plan for a $1,000 fee, valid for 45 days.

What does the $1,000 site-specific quote cover?

Land development is where costs vary most — clearing, fill dirt, septic vs. sewer, utility runs, drainage, access, easements, and more. The $1,000 fee produces a firm, site-specific quote for your chosen plan. If you proceed with an FD Builds contract, that $1,000 is credited toward the cost of the build. If you decide not to build with us, you still keep valuable information about what it actually costs to develop your property.

Are there other costs beyond the $1,000 quote fee?

Depending on the lot, additional studies may be required for an accurate quote — such as a survey, soil testing / percolation test, or similar site work. Those come at an additional cost beyond the $1,000 fee and will be identified and communicated as soon as we know they are necessary.

What documents help most?

A recent site survey, HOA guidelines (if applicable), and any perc/soil or flood documentation speed up feasibility review. You can upload surveys and related lot documents in the form above.

Can I use any FD Builds floor plan?

Most of our plans can be adapted to your lot — setbacks, drainage, and orientation may influence the best fit. Enter your known lot width on the form to see which plans might fit after allowing 10' total for setbacks (for example, a 50' lot suggests roughly a 40' max house width).

How can I pay for a build on my own lot?

We commonly work with three paths: (1) cash — a 10% deposit at contract signing, with construction funds held in escrow and released via draws as milestones are completed; (2) a one-time close construction-to-permanent loan — one closing that covers construction and then converts to a permanent mortgage; or (3) a land deed / build-and-buyback option for buyers who own their lot but need a different financing structure. We are glad to share lenders in our area with experience in construction lending.

How does a cash build work?

Cash is the most straightforward path: 10% deposit at contract signing, construction funds held in escrow with a title company, and disbursements released via draws according to FD Builds' standard draw schedule as milestones are completed. There is no lender, loan approval, construction-loan interest, or construction-loan closing costs — which often means a simpler, faster path to a signed contract and more flexibility with change orders.

What is a one-time close construction-to-permanent loan?

It is a single-closing loan that covers both construction and the long-term mortgage. You are approved for the total project cost (land + construction), close once at the start, and the lender releases funds to FD Builds via draws (often with lender-ordered inspections). During the build you typically make interest-only payments on funds drawn so far. When the home is complete, the loan converts to a standard permanent mortgage — no second closing or second set of closing costs. Some lenders also let you lock your permanent rate at the start.

What is the land deed / build-and-buyback option?

This path is for buyers who own their lot outright but do not currently have cash or construction financing in place. The homeowner deeds the lot to FD Builds (or an affiliated entity), we build the home using our capital or financing, then sell the finished home — land and house together — back to you at a pre-agreed price, typically financed with a standard mortgage like a normal home purchase. Buyers often choose this to qualify against a finished-home appraisal, or when their lender will not do construction loans.

How long does a lot build take?

Timelines vary by permitting, utilities, site work, and plan selections. With solid planning, many semi-custom builds finish in roughly 4–6 months after construction starts. Site development and financing path can add time before that start date.

Do you build outside Pensacola?

We serve Escambia and Santa Rosa County communities including Navarre, Pace, Milton, and Gulf Breeze. Enter your address above and we will confirm serviceability.

Is this guide legal or financial advice?

No — the information on this page is educational and intended as a general overview for homeowners, realtors, and lenders. Actual terms are governed by the applicable FD Builds contract and, where relevant, individual lender loan products. Buyers should consult their own attorney, CPA, and lender for guidance specific to their situation.

Educational overview only — not legal or financial advice. Contract terms and lender products control the actual process for your project.