I get these questions a lot, how do I find subcontractors, and when do I start looking for them? You can start getting your list of subs together at any point I always say the sooner the better! The more prepared you are before you start the build. The faster it will go and the more money you’re going to save in interest payments. I’ve seen to many people not even start looking for a sub until it’s time for that work to be completed. That’s a good way to add 2-3 weeks on every task and also end up with budget surprises. Get your list from the jump! How you find good subs is simple, ask around. If you know someone that has recently had a home built ask for their list of subs. If that is not an option go find homes similar in size and style to the home you’re wanting to build that are currently under construction and pop in to ask for business cards. Even if you see project managers or the home builder themselves out there don’t be afraid to ask I’ve given out a ton of recommendations to people who have simply just stopped and asked! If you have sub questions please drop them below!

Would you guys be interested in a full extremely detailed budget breakdown? Your budget will vary pretty greatly depending on where you are located in the country. There are things on the east coast you have to do that someone building on the west coast or Midwest will not have to do! Let me know down in the comments! One of the biggest mistakes first-time owner-builders make is jumping into construction without a clear budget. A solid budget isn’t just about tracking costs it’s your roadmap for staying on course and avoiding surprises. Here’s a simple framework you can use to set yours up: 1. Start with the Big Picture - Decide your all-in budget (what you can realistically spend). - Include land, build costs, permits, utilities, and a 10–15% contingency for surprises. 2. Break It Into Categories Organize your budget into clear buckets: - Land & Site Prep (lot, clearing, utilities, permits) - Foundation - Framing & Exterior (roof, windows, doors, siding) - Mechanical Systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) - Interior Finishes (drywall, flooring, cabinets, paint) - Final Touches (landscaping, driveway, cleanup) 3. Price Check with Reality - Get 3 bids per trade when possible. - Ask subs or suppliers for ballpark numbers before locking in. - Track costs in a simple spreadsheet or budgeting app. 4. Track & Adjust Weekly - Review expenses every week, not every month. - Compare your planned vs. actual costs. - Shift funds around if one category runs higher than expected. 5. Protect Your Contingency - Treat your contingency like insurance—don’t spend it unless absolutely necessary. 💡 Pro Tip: The more detailed your categories, the fewer “mystery expenses” will catch you off guard. 👉 What part of budgeting do you struggle with the most—getting accurate bids, staying disciplined with spending, or knowing what categories to include? Drop your thoughts below.

First thing you should be looking at when purchasing land is drainage! Where will the house sit and where is the water going to. This tree should have been pulled before they even broke ground but everything is fixable! What would you guys do in this situation or do you have a tree you’re in love with on your lot but it’s just going to be to close to the house? Let me know down in the comments!

Welcome to the group guys! Let me know where you’re building and what stage of the process you’re currently in!

Hey everyone — I’m Jessie, founder of 405 Built and creator of the Equity Build Blueprint. I started this group to help everyday people like you take control of their home build — and actually build your own house from the ground up, even with zero experience. For the past 11+ years, I’ve worked as a residential construction manager, built homes from start to finish, and helped owner-builders save hundreds of thousands in equity by managing their own projects. 💡 What You’ll Get Inside This Group: ✅ Step-by-step guidance through the entire build process ✅ Downloadable checklists, templates, and walkthroughs ✅ Real examples from active construction sites ✅ Answers to your questions from someone who’s done it hundreds of times ✅ Live Q&As and events to help you stay on track ✅ A supportive community of others building their own homes ✅ Early access to tools, guides, and paid resources This isn’t a group about DIY hacks or random opinions — it’s a proven roadmap to help you manage your build like a pro and gain instant equity in the process. 📌 What to Do First: 1. Introduce yourself – post where you’re building and what stage you’re in 2. Check out the Classroom tab for starter resources 3. Browse the checklists and templates I’ve uploaded 4. Ask questions anytime – I’m here to help! Let’s get building 💪 — Jessie 405 Built Build Smart. Build Equity.