Let’s talk about one of the most common (and most important) questions we get from clients —
Are there any hidden costs in building a home?

It’s a fair concern. You’ve likely heard the horror stories: surprise expenses, blown budgets, and change orders that seem to come out of nowhere. That’s not how we do things at Trawick Homes. So let’s break it down together.

No fixed pricing — and here’s why that’s actually better for you

We don’t offer a “fixed price” build. Not because we can’t — but because we believe in full financial transparency over false predictability. A fixed price may sound comforting up front, but builders who offer them often use vague allowances or omit interior selections until you’re deep into the process. That’s where the surprises pile up.

At Trawick Homes, we approach pricing differently:

✔️ We map out all known costs upfront, from infrastructure and layout to the finishes that turn a house into your home.

✔️ Your selections drive the pricing, and we take time on the front end to clarify your vision — before the first wall ever goes up.

✔️ If a selection hasn’t been finalized yet (because let’s be honest, picking everything Day 1 isn’t always realistic), you’ll get a thoughtful, detailed allowance based on your preferences — not a generic placeholder.

So where do the “hidden” costs usually come from?

Great question. The truth is, the biggest budget breakers don’t usually come from the builder — they come from changes made after the plan is agreed on.

We’re talking about things like:

• Modifying the floor plan midway
• Choosing major upgrades after the foundation’s poured
• Swapping out finish packages that cost more than originally planned

Can you make changes if your vision evolves? Of course. But we’ll always hit pause to check how a decision impacts the budget so you know what it means before you say yes.

That’s why we’re upfront about the numbers and proactive in our planning process. We don’t avoid hard conversations — we welcome them early to save everyone stress later.

Budget transparency isn’t a phrase — it’s a method

Want to avoid unexpected expenses when building? Here’s how we keep your project financially clear, from start to finish:

• Selections are made up front whenever possible — no guesswork
• Detailed allowances are created if things are still being finalized
• Every change order includes the new price of the home — not just a single line item
• We call it out when we see a risk of going over — even if it’s just $2K here, $5K there

Because too often, little changes add up. Before you know it, you’re $70,000 over budget and wondering how you got there. We’d rather have the hard conversations at $2,000 instead.

You deserve to feel confident in your investment

Your home is a huge milestone — emotionally and financially. It’s not just walls and windows. It’s the place you’ll create memories, raise your family, or slow down in your next chapter.

That’s why we take our job seriously — and personally.

At Trawick Homes, we build more than houses. We build experiences worth having and homes you’re proud to live in. And that starts by being clear and honest with your budget.

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Not sure where to start? Let’s talk costs of building a custom home.

If you’re dreaming of building, and want a process where you actually know what you’re stepping into —
Let’s sit down. No pushy sales pitch. Just a conversation to help you find your footing.

📞 Give us a call CONTACT US AT +1 573-722-2402 or visit trawickhomes.com to schedule your free consultation.

We’ll help you understand the budget, the build, and every step in between.

Because building your custom home shouldn’t feel uncertain. It should feel like coming home — from the very beginning.