Building Your Dream Home Starts with a Partnership

Building a home from the ground up is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. Read on to find out what you should expect from the custom home building process.

At HillCo Custom Homes, owners Bill and Tracy Hill take pride in creating one-of-a-kind homes that reflect each family’s lifestyle, location, and legacy. From the first design sketch to move-in day, HillCo’s process is defined by communication, craftsmanship, and care.

Step 1: Vision and Planning (1–3 Months)

Every HillCo home begins with your story. Bill and Tracy start by learning about your vision, your lifestyle, and the way you want your home to feel.

During this phase, you’ll:
– Define your home’s layout, style, and must-have features.
– Finalize your land purchase and location, and complete the land survey.
– Establish a budget and discuss financing.
– Review inspiration, examples, and design goals.

Local insight: HillCo’s trusted network of developers and contractors ensures your new home fits your lifestyle and your land—whether it’s a peaceful lot near Sardis Lake or a family neighborhood in Germantown. Selecting your site in advance and completing your land survey can shave significant time off the length of time it takes to get started on your build.

Step 2: Design and Budget Development (2–4 Months)

Next, HillCo’s design team collaborates with you to turn ideas into detailed plans and cost estimates. This stage includes:

– Preliminary drawings and renderings from the architect
– HillCo’s team will work with you to ensure your home design is practical for your needs, meets your design desires and fits within your budget.
– Initial material and finish selections
– Discussions around home features like heated flooring, bathroom layouts and larger appliances or items needed installation during rough-in
– Transparent cost proposal and construction agreement

Bill and Tracy personally review every detail to ensure you’re comfortable with the design and budget before construction begins.

HillCo Tip: Time spent in design prevents costly changes later. A well-planned home is a smooth-built home. Most importantly – make sure everyone involved in the decision-making process is on the same page. When husbands and wives have the same desires and goals – time is saved in the design process. 

Step 3: Permitting and Pre-Construction (4-6 weeks)

Once the plans are finalized, HillCo manages the permitting and pre-build process. This step includes:

– Submitting building plans to local authorities
– Coordinating with engineers and surveyors
– Ordering key materials

During this phase, HillCo prepares your construction timeline and provides updates on start dates and milestones.

Step 4: Site Prep and Foundation (1–2 Months)

Breaking ground is where your vision becomes reality. HillCo’s experienced crews handle:

– Lot clearing and grading
– Footings, foundation walls, and concrete pours
– Underground utilities
– Required inspections

Once cured and inspected, the foundation sets the stage for framing—the framework of your dream home.

Step 5: Framing and Exterior Construction (1–2 Months)

Your home starts to take shape as HillCo’s craftsmen build the structure and exterior:

– Framing floors, walls, and roof systems
– Installing windows and doors
– Adding roofing, siding, and weatherproofing

At this point, Bill and Tracy often meet clients on-site for a “frame walk”—a walkthrough to confirm room layouts, lighting placements, and design flow before the walls are closed.

Step 6: Mechanical Systems and Insulation (1–2 Months)

Behind the walls, all key systems are installed and tested:

– HVAC, electrical, and plumbing rough-ins
– Insulation for comfort and energy efficiency
– Smart home wiring and security systems

Each system is carefully inspected to meet both code and HillCo’s high internal quality standards.

Step 7: Interior Finishes (2–3 Months)

This is where your personality shines through. With Tracy’s guidance, you’ll see your design choices come to life:

– Cabinets, flooring, and tilework
– Trim, paint, and fixtures
– Countertops, lighting, and appliances

HillCo’s artisans focus on precision and beauty in every finish, ensuring your home feels just right the moment you walk in.

Step 8: Final Details and Move-In (1 Month)

As construction wraps up, HillCo handles:

– Landscaping, driveways, and exterior finishes
– Final inspections and certificate of occupancy
– A detailed homeowner walkthrough

Bill and Tracy personally tour your finished home with you, addressing any last details and ensuring it’s perfect for move-in.

Typical HillCo Timeline: 10–18 Months

While no two homes are identical, most HillCo builds follow this pattern:
– Design & Pre-Construction: 4–8 months
– Construction: 6–10 months

Factors like site conditions, weather, and customization levels may affect timing—but with HillCo, you’ll always know where your project stands.

Why Choose HillCo Custom Homes

Hands-On Owners: Bill and Tracy are personally involved at every stage.
Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of the Mid-south, Memphis and Oxford communities.
Trusted Craftsmanship: Only the most skilled, reputable trades and suppliers.
Transparent Communication: Clear updates from day one to move-in.

HillCo’s clients often describe the process as personal, professional, and deeply rewarding.

Your Home, Your Legacy

Building a fully custom home is about more than structure—it’s about creating a place that tells your story. With HillCo Custom Homes, you get trusted guidance, superior craftsmanship, and a home designed to last for generations.

Ready to Start Your Custom Home Journey?

Contact Bill and Tracy Hill today to begin designing your dream home.

Serving Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Oxford, Mississippi and the Mid-South