If you are exploring your options for a new home, you may be wondering: what’s the difference between custom, semi-custom, and spec homes? Each type offers a unique experience, and understanding the differences will help you make the best decision for your goals, timeline, and budget.
Custom Homes
A custom home is built entirely from the ground up to reflect your specific lifestyle and design preferences. From the architectural design to the pre-designed floor plan modifications, every detail is tailored to your vision. Roots Builders specializes in creating fully custom homes that turn your ideas into reality, whether you are dreaming of a modern farmhouse or a luxury home in Utah.
Custom home building allows you to:
- Choose your own floor plan or design one from scratch
- Hand-pick all materials and finishes
- Work directly with your custom builder to align every feature with your preferences
- Ensure maximum personalization with no compromises
- Create a one-of-a-kind custom house that fits your family’s needs
Semi-Custom Homes
A semi-custom home is based on a pre-designed floor plan but allows for changes to layout, materials, or design elements. It is ideal for homebuyers who want customization options without the time or cost of a fully custom home.
Semi-custom homes provide:
- Faster delivery times than custom homes
- Lower overall cost compared to full customization
- A blend of personalization and convenience
- Flexibility in finishes and minor architectural design tweaks
- Guidance from experienced semi-custom builders
Spec Homes
Spec homes (short for “speculative”) are built by a spec builder without a specific buyer in mind. These homes are move-in ready and ideal for people looking to buy a new home quickly. While spec houses do not offer much in terms of personalization, they are great for buyers with tight timelines or those new to the new construction process.
Features of spec homes include:
- Completed or near-completed new construction homes
- Standardized layouts and finishes
- Ideal for potential buyers who want a simplified purchase process
- Shorter timelines from purchase to move-in
- Reliable quality from trusted homebuilders
Which One is Right For You?
- Want full control and personalization? Go with a custom home.
- Prefer a balance of customization and speed? A semi-custom home could be ideal.
- Need a move-in ready option with fewer decisions? A spec home might be perfect.
Roots Builders supports all three paths—but we specialize in custom home building. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, or someone looking for a dream home, our team is here to guide you through the design process.
Let us help you build the new home that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Contact Roots Builders today to learn more.
