December 15th, 2023
By Sofia Alonso
3 min read
Deciding that you want to build a custom home in Northern Virginia is a big decision that comes with a myriad of other decisions to be made. The first being, which builder are you going to choose? The Northern Virginia region boasts an array of many custom home builders to choose from, each offering unique services and expertise that appeal to various lifestyles and preferences.
At AV Architects + Builders, we have over 23 years experience designing and building custom homes for clients in Northern Virginia. This article aims to spotlight the top-rated custom home builders in Northern Virginia and serve as a tool in your home building journey. Choosing the right builder for your new home is one of the most important decisions you will make throughout this entire process.
With a plethora of custom home builders to choose from, it's vital to make an informed decision that aligns with your dream home vision and project requirements. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to the top-rated custom home builders in Northern Virginia, providing you with essential insights to help you navigate this decision.
5 Top-Rated Custom Home Builders in NOVA
Google Reviews: (7) - 4.9 star rating
Services offered: Both custom and semi-custom homes.
Fisher Custom Homes is a premier custom home builder specializing in re-development and sustainable construction in Northern Virginia since 2010. They offer the flexibility of building custom homes on their inventory lots, a client's chosen lot, or can assist in finding the perfect location. Committed to quality construction and personal attention, they ensure complete satisfaction with each new home, backed by a comprehensive home warranty follow-up. With a decade of experience, Fisher Custom Homes has a track record of building beautiful, custom homes in the region. Their focus on client needs and sustainable building practices makes them a distinguished choice for custom home building in Northern Virginia.
Google Reviews: (11) - 5 star rating
Services offered: Both custom and semi-custom homes as well as new homes for sale.
Dunhill Builders, based in Vienna, Fairfax, Arlington, Dunn Loring, McLean, VA, and surrounding areas, specializes in luxury custom home building services since 2011. They prioritize adapting to their clients' needs, budget, style, and family, ensuring a personalized and stress-free custom building process. Dunhill Builders is known for their dedicated project management, solid construction, exceptional value, and flexibility in customizing homes to fit clients' lifestyles. Their custom-build process is comprehensive, including initial meetings, design and budgeting, final budget and financing, permitting, selections, construction, and completion. Clients praise Dunhill Builders for their attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and the team's responsiveness and support, even after project completion.
Google Reviews: (14) - 5 star rating
Services offered: Only custom homes.
Since 2013, TriCrest Homes specializes in creating custom luxury homes that are true works of art, combining modern design with exceptional craftsmanship. Their contemporary approach is centered around building collaborative and trusting relationships with their clients, ensuring a personalized home-building experience. As luxury custom home builders, TriCrest is known for creating unique living spaces in Northern Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic region, characterized by open areas, natural light, and rich architectural details. They place a strong emphasis on selecting meticulous craftsmen and sourcing premium building materials, ensuring that their homes are not only aesthetically pleasing but also remarkably well-built. TriCrest Homes stands out for their dedication to quality and innovation in the luxury home market.
Google Reviews: (67) - 4.9 star rating
Services offered: Primarily renovations and remodels, but also offer custom homes by request.
Since 1988, BOWA specializes in luxury renovations and custom builds, focusing on delivering a seamless and enjoyable remodeling experience. They emphasize a proven process that guides clients through every step, ensuring both the journey and the end result are remarkable. Known for their expertise in high-end renovations, BOWA tailors each project to meet the unique needs and visions of their clients. Their approach combines meticulous planning, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service. BOWA stands out in the industry for their commitment to transforming spaces into beautiful, functional, and personalized homes.
Google Reviews: (84) - 5 star rating
Services offered: Both custom and semi-custom homes.
Focal Point Homes, since its founding in 2010, has been dedicated to building high-quality, custom homes that blend timeless architecture with modern living. They offer a personalized approach to home building, allowing clients to choose between fully custom designs or pre-designed plans to suit diverse preferences. Known for their meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, they focus on creating not just houses, but homes that resonate with the lifestyles and aspirations of their clients. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships is evident in every project they undertake. Focal Point Homes stands as a testament to innovative design and client-focused construction in the custom home industry.
Custom Homes vs Semi Custom Homes
A common challenge for many aspiring homeowners is distinguishing between custom and semi-custom home builders. This decision is crucial, as it impacts not only the design and functionality of your future home but also the overall home-building experience.
Custom Home Builders
Custom builders offer unparalleled flexibility and control over your home’s design and layout. You can work with an architect to create a unique floor plan, select bespoke materials, and incorporate any desired features. This option is ideal for accommodating unique requirements such as multi-generational living, special accessibility needs, or a home-based business. However, it's important to note that the design process is more complex and time-consuming, often requiring a higher budget and more involvement from you as the buyer.
Semi-Custom Home Builders
Semi-custom builders provide a balance between customizability and affordability. They typically offer a range of architectural plans as starting points, allowing for some degree of customization. This option is great for those who want a personalized home but are willing to work within certain pre-defined parameters. The key limitation is that you're not creating a brand-new floor plan, and significant modifications might lead to additional costs.
Choosing the Right Home Builder in Northern Virginia
