Question 1

How long does it take to build a custom home in Mid-Michigan?

Accepted Answer

Most homes we build take between **6 and 10 months** from permit to close, depending on complexity and the time of year. Site condos at Diamond View Farms and duplex units at Parkside Villas typically run 5 to 7 months. We give you a projected timeline at contract signing and update you at every major milestone.

Question 2

What does "barrier-free design" mean on your homes?

Accepted Answer

Barrier-free design means every home we build meets or exceeds visitability standards without requiring a special upgrade. That includes **36-inch doorways** throughout, zero-step entries from the garage, a no-curb shower in at least one bath, and wide hallways. It is built in from the start — not an add-on.

Question 3

Can I make changes to a floor plan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you are building from scratch or selecting a lot that has not been started, there is flexibility in layout and finish selections. Once framing begins, structural changes become difficult and costly. The best time to make changes is during the design and permitting phase — we will walk you through exactly when the cutoffs are.

Question 4

Do you work with specific lenders?

Accepted Answer

We work with several local and regional lenders who understand construction loans and new home financing. We are happy to make introductions. That said, you are not required to use our preferred lenders — bring your own financing if you prefer. The key is that your lender has experience with construction-to-perm loans.

Question 5

How much do I need for a down payment?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the loan program. Conventional construction loans typically require 10 to 20 percent down. Some buyers use FHA or USDA programs with lower down payment requirements depending on the property and income. Our preferred lenders can walk you through options at no cost or obligation.

Question 6

What is a site condo and how is it different from a regular condo?

Accepted Answer

A site condo means you own your lot and the home on it — just like a traditional home — but you share an HOA that handles exterior maintenance, lawn care, and snow removal. You get the ownership benefits of a single-family home with the maintenance convenience of a condo. Diamond View Farms is structured this way.

Question 7

What does the HOA cover at Diamond View Farms and Parkside Villas?

Accepted Answer

At Diamond View Farms, the HOA covers **lawn mowing, snow plowing, and common area maintenance** for $185 per month. At Parkside Villas, the HOA covers lawn, snow, and exterior building maintenance for $165 per month. Utilities, interior repairs, and property taxes are the homeowner's responsibility.

Question 8

What kind of warranty do your homes come with?

Accepted Answer

Every home we build is covered by a **1-year workmanship warranty**, a **2-year mechanical warranty** covering plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, and a **10-year structural warranty** through a third-party warranty provider. We also stand behind our work beyond the warranty period — if something is wrong because of how we built it, we want to know.

Question 9

Is there a warranty on Lifestyle homes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every home comes with a comprehensive new home warranty covering materials, workmanship, and major systems. We stand behind every home we've built in over 30 years of service to the Tri-Cities.

Question 10

What types of homes do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We build custom homes, site condos, and semi-custom duplexes — all designed for comfort, efficiency, and long-term peace of mind.

Question 11

Are your communities age-restricted?

Accepted Answer

No — they're open to everyone, but designed with features that support aging in place, accessibility, and ease of living.

Question 12

Do you offer financing guidance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can connect you with trusted local lenders who understand the homebuilding process.

Question 13

How long does it take to build a home?

Accepted Answer

Move-in ready homes are available immediately. For homes under construction, timelines vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the stage. Custom builds from scratch typically take 6-9 months.

Question 14

Can I customize my home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Depending on the build type and stage of construction, you can choose finishes, features, and layout adjustments.

Question 15

What is a site condo?

Accepted Answer

A site condo is a detached, single-family home that comes with the benefits of a maintenance-free community. You own your home and the land, while the association takes care of exterior maintenance like lawn care, snow removal, and common area upkeep.

Question 16

What's included in the price of a Lifestyle home?

Accepted Answer

Our quoted prices include the home, lot, barrier-free features, Energy Star construction, and standard finish packages. Upgrades and customizations are priced transparently during your design consultation.

Question 17

Are all homes barrier-free?

Accepted Answer

Yes — every Lifestyle home can include zero-step entries, wider doorways, open bathrooms, and roll-in showers. Barrier-free is our standard, not an upgrade.

Question 18

Are pets welcome at Diamond View Farms and Parkside Villas?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Both communities are pet-friendly. Diamond View Farms has a fenced-in dog park where your furry friends can run off-leash.

Question 19

What does Energy Star certified mean for my home?

Accepted Answer

Every home we build meets Energy Star standards, which means tighter construction, better insulation, higher-efficiency HVAC, and lower monthly utility bills than a typical new build.

Question 20

What do the Diamond View Farms association dues cover?

Accepted Answer

At just $138 per month — one of the lowest in the area — dues cover lawn care, snow removal, fertilizing, irrigation, tree and shrub care, and common area maintenance.

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