Our Process
Initial Consultation
First, reach out via our contact form and Tim Calderala (Founder and CEO of Apex Homes) will reach out to you personally to learn more about your project. We get to know you and understand your goals, budget, and timeline in a Strategic Vision Session.
Founder-Led Oversight • Licensed Florida General Contractor • Structured Preconstruction-First Planning
Step 1 - Meeting the Team
After coming to understand your vision, we’ll have you complete a Professional Services Agreement, or Construction Contact, and provide the initial retainer to cover permits, estimating, and design meetings that need to happen before breaking ground. Based on customized recommendations to your personal taste and preferences, we will curate the perfect team of professionals (from architect to interior designer) that will execute your vision flawlessly — on time and on budget.
Step 2 - Breaking Ground
Now that a plan and team are in place — it’s time to break ground and start construction on your home. You’ll receive regular updates on the progress of your home, so you are completely aware of the exciting progress throughout the duration of the project. Impeccable project management sets Apex Homes apart from the rest!
Step 3 - Move-In Ready
Before we hand over the keys to your dream home, we will perform Team Walks to make sure every last detail is just right. When you step foot through your door, you can be sure that everything is properly in its place so you can just sit back and relax.
Still early in the process?
Use our fit and readiness guide to determine your smartest next step.
We are grateful to the industry professionals who have publicly shared their experience working alongside us.
Custom Home Planning Answers and Guidance
Looking for a luxury custom home builder in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida? Apex Homes Florida designs and builds coastal-inspired custom homes through a white-glove design-build process.
What should we do first—find a lot or hire a builder?
Either path can work, but the best outcomes happen when we’re involved early. If you already own a lot, we’ll evaluate constraints and opportunities before design begins. If you’re still searching, we can help you assess buildability, setbacks, utilities, drainage, and long-term value so you don’t buy a property that limits your vision or inflates costs.
How do you help us align design with budget before we get too far?
We establish budget clarity early through a structured design-build approach—aligning concept, square footage, structural requirements, and finish level before plans are finalized. This prevents the common scenario where homeowners fall in love with a design that later requires major redesign to fit the real budget.
What timeline should we realistically expect for a fully custom home?
Most true custom homes require meaningful time for design, engineering, selections, permitting, and construction. Timelines vary based on complexity and approvals, but we set expectations early with a realistic schedule so you understand what’s ahead—before you’re committed.
How do selections and finish levels affect schedule and cost?
Selections drive both cost and lead times. High-end materials, custom cabinetry, specialty lighting, and long-lead items can impact the schedule if they’re not decided early. Our process helps you make key selections at the right time so your budget stays controlled and your build stays moving.
What makes your design-build process different from hiring a designer and a builder separately?
Design-build keeps design intent, budget, and construction feasibility aligned from day one. Instead of managing multiple parties and hoping everything matches up later, you have one coordinated team, clearer accountability, fewer surprises, and a smoother client experience.
How involved will we need to be during planning and construction?
We keep the process clear and organized, but your involvement matters—especially during planning and selections. We guide you step-by-step so decisions are made confidently and on time. Clients who want a white-glove experience and value consistent communication tend to thrive in our process.
Do you take on every project?
No. We’re selective because fully custom homes require intense attention to detail. The best fit is a client who values quality, transparency, and a collaborative process—and understands that true custom construction is a major investment of time and resources.
What are the most common mistakes homeowners make before starting?
The biggest issues we see are purchasing a lot without evaluating buildability, underestimating timeline, and starting design without aligning budget and scope. Our process is designed to prevent these mistakes early, which saves time, reduces stress, and avoids costly redesigns.
Ready to explore building a custom home in Jacksonville?
Schedule a private design-build consultation to discuss your lot, goals, budget range, and timeline — and determine if our process is the right fit.
Compare our approach to other custom builders
Our process is personally guided by founder Tim Calderala, whose 25+ years of residential construction experience shape every project.