Do I need to be pre-approved already for a home loan?
No, you do not have to be pre-approved for a home loan. We do require a pre-approval letter from a lender before starting a custom home. Please find our preferred lender information here.
How do I get pre-approved for a home loan?
We have a network of great lenders to help you buy or build your dream home. Please find our preferred lender information here.
How do I get financing to build a custom home or buy a spec?
We have a network of great lenders to help you buy or build your dream home. Please find our preferred lender information here.
How does a construction loan work?
We want you to completely understand how a construction loan works. Please contact us via email or phone.
What communities do you build in?
We build in the Des Moines metro and surrounding communities. We typically travel about 30 minutes from Ankeny, but please contact us for more information.
What styles of homes do you specialize in?
With 30+ years experience we specialize in every home type and style. We love creating innovative custom designs for our clients.
Do you only build single–family homes?
No. We also build bi-attached properties.
What is the best month to build?
The best time to build is to start in the spring, but we can build any time of the year—weather permitting.
Do you build in the winter?
Yes, but winter costs may occur.
I still need to sell my home. Do you recommend any real estate agents?
Yes! At Oakstone Homes we make your transition into your new home seamless with a realtor on staff. Please contact us for your real estate needs.
How do I find the perfect floor plan?
We have a collection of spec home floor plans to choose from. However, we love working with clients on custom floor plans or floor plans found online.
Why should we consider building a new home rather than buying an existing home?
At Oakstone Homes we are able to tailor your custom design to create your dream home. When purchasing an existing home, you run the risk of sacrificing your wish list and the integrity of the home. With that said, if you’re not interested in building, we have a desirable collection of homes for sale. Find them here. You might even be able to custom one that’s not finished!
Should I buy land before contacting a builder, or talk to a builder before I buy land?
We recommend contacting us before purchasing a lot to ensure your desired floor plan and wish list can be achieved.
What are the steps in building a new custom home?
First you need to be pre-approved to determine your budget. Next you will need to find the perfect floor plan and lot. After finalizing your wish list and budget the purchase agreement will be signed and construction will get started.
What is the process of signing a purchase agreement?
A purchase agreement must be signed before work begins. The contract includes all bids, allowances and final home price.
What can I expect at my first custom homebuilding appointment?
We want to make sure Oakstone Homes is the right builder for you. At our first meeting we will go over your wish list, lot area, and any questions you might have.
What should I bring to the custom homebuilding appointment?
Please bring your wish list, floor plan if you have it and lot specs if you’ve already purchased land.
How do payments work?
For custom homes a down payment will be due at contract signing. The remainder will be paid at closing. For home renovations payment plans will be discussed based on the job.
What type of home warranty do you provide?
We provide a 1-year home warranty and 5-year structural warranty.
Do you ever build homes with alternative power sources, like solar, wind and geothermal power?
Yes! We want our clients to be aware that alternative power sources can provide an excellent source of power and a great ROI over time, but they have a significant larger up-front cost.
How long do renovations take?
The completion time depends on the depth of the renovation. Job size is the determining factor but most renovations don’t take longer than 2 months.
Is it okay to visit my home while it’s under construction?
Yes! We want you to check the progress of your new home. However, for liability purposes, we do recommend scheduling an appointment with us after hours to ensure your safety around the construction site.
Should we ever expect extra costs above the original construction bid?
When signing a contract for a custom home the budget will always remain the same unless changes or upgrades are made during the building process. When it comes to renovations, they are only estimates. They are subject to change pending hidden or concealed home conditions.
Can we provide any of the work—sweat equity—on our new home?
To ensure quality standards we do not allow sweat equity on new construction homes. We do however allow sweat equity on home renovations.
What occurs during closing on my new custom home?
A walk-through inspection will occur with Brandon and Katelyn prior to you moving in. This will initiate your 1-year home warranty and outline any items that may need to be corrected before moving in.
When can I start moving my possessions in to my new home?
After closing.
What is the best way to contact you?
You may contact us via email or phone at info@oakstonehomesiowa.com or 515-229-5020.
