Just the FAQs About Homebuilding

Q. How much does it cost to build a custom home?

A. Our typical square-foot price is between $175-$250 for finished space. That can vary depending on the three main components that drive the cost of your home:

• Difficulty of the site
• Complexity of the structure
• Level of finish

Q. How long has Dietrich Homes been in business?

A. Our owner, Clay Dietrich, has been in home construction and remodeling since 1975, and he’s been focused on mid-level and luxury home design and construction since 1987. You can read more about that on our History page. In addition, the Dietrich Homes team has more than 100 years of combined experience in the home construction industry.

Q. Why should I choose Dietrich Homes as my custom home builder?

A. Finding a good builder with integrity is crucial; after all, you’ll be spending a lot of time within the results of their work! With that said, you should work with us because we care about our customers, we care about quality construction, and we are straight talkers who always keep our word. (Get to Know Us) We’ll be happy to provide references, and you can always ask around; we’re confident you’ll hear that people equate “Dietrich Homes” with “the best available.”

Q. Where do you build?

A. Our primary building area is within 60 miles of Fargo-Moorhead and in the Minnesota lakes region. However, please don’t hesitate to contact us if your dream location is outside of that radius; we’ll be happy to talk about how we can make a partnership work.

Q. How long does it take?

A. It generally takes six to nine months from the date design begins to the day you move in. It all depends on the difficulty of the site, the complexity of the structure and the level of finish. (Those are also the items that drive the cost.) The timeline for additions or renovations is usually shorter.

Q. How do I choose the right building site?

A. Dietrich Homes owns several lots in various areas of the community that are ready for construction. If you already have a site in mind, our owner, Clay Dietrich, will meet you there and give you his expert opinion regarding its “buildability.” He also can help you compare two or more sites.

Q. Is the cost for preparing some sites for construction more than for others?

A. Yes. Site development costs can vary greatly, even in the same development. Slope, rocks, utilities and access all have an impact. If you’re looking at one or more lots, our owner, Clay Dietrich, will meet you there to give you his expert opinion regarding site-prep costs.

Q. Do you discourage changes after construction has begun?

A. The short answer is no, we don’t. If a change is necessary to make sure the end result is truly your dream home, making a change is usually worth the extra cost and time in the end. However, to minimize the potential for changes, we do everything we can at the beginning of our design-build and renovate processes to ensure we fully understand your needs and preferences. We’ll spend even more time with you to review plans and specifications.

Q. What if I decide I want to make changes during the construction process?

A. We’ll explain carefully how the change will impact your cost and how far back it will push your move-in date. If you want to move forward, we’ll get a solid price quote and present it to you for review. If you again decide to go ahead, we’ll complete the change as quickly as possible.

Q. Do changes add very much time to my move-in date?

A.  Every change, no matter how small, can add time to the homebuilding process. How much will be determined by how many changes you make and how extensive they are. The good thing is you can make them so your home will be just the way you want it.

Q. How long does it take to make a change?

A. Depending on the stage of construction and type of request, we might be able to implement it in as little as a couple of days or it could take weeks. Picking out a different paint color or carpet that costs the same might not add anything, unless you make that choice after the original material or supplies have been purchased. More extensive changes that involve design and structural issues require building department and homeowner association approval, not to mention additional construction time. Please keep in mind that many hours of behind-the-scenes administration and on-site coordination are needed to ensure a change gets implemented properly.

Q. Are changes usually more expensive than going with the item that was included in the project cost in the first place?

A. Yes. Changes and alterations are a double-edged sword. They allow you to implement a new idea, but they almost always add cost.

Q. Can I visit the job site during construction?

A. Yes. However, for insurance and safety purposes, we ask that you call to schedule site visits with the job superintendent. We’ll do our best to schedule a time that works well for you.

Q. I have a friend who sells appliances. Can I provide some of my own material or supplies?

A. Yes. As long as your friend or family member is in the trade, licensed and insured, we’ll ask them to submit a bid along with our regular subcontractors. If we are talking about items like appliances, light fixtures, etc., we’ll include provisions in the agreement to install those items, but you will be responsible for payment and getting the items to the jobsite. Just be sure to let us know beforehand so we can include installation in the project cost. Any warranty issues will be your responsibility.

Q. What kind of warranty(ies) do you provide?

A. Each state has its own requirements. Dietrich Homes follows the warranty requirements set forth by the states of North Dakota and Minnesota. We’ll be happy to discuss which warranty laws apply to your situation. In terms of items such as appliances, shingles and windows, we transfer the manufacturer’s warranties to you.

If you don’t see the answer you are looking for here, please contact us at 701-364-2781. We’ll be more than happy to address any additional questions you might have.