Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about building a custom home in Asheville and the mountains of Western North Carolina.
COST · TIMELINE · LAND · PROCESS
How much does it cost to build a custom home in Asheville?
That’s a fair question, and an honest answer starts with the house and the land rather than a price per square foot. The cost of a custom home is driven mostly by what is being built: the size and complexity of the design, the level of detail and finish, and the site itself. On a mountain property, slope, access, rock, drainage and bringing in utilities can move a budget more than any other single factor.
That’s why we walk your land with you before the design gets far along, and price the home as the plans develop. You’ll have a realistic, detailed budget early, well before any major commitments, and we’ll help you decide where to invest and where to save. If you share your plans or your lot, we’re glad to give you a frank sense of what it will take.
How do you keep a project on budget?
Through planning and communication. We make selections before construction wherever possible, track the budget closely as the work moves forward, and give you access to our online project portal, where you can see the schedule, selections and costs at any time. If something changes, you’ll know what it means for cost and schedule before the work goes ahead.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
Most of the timeline depends on the size and complexity of the home and the site. Before we break ground, you’ll have a detailed schedule, and an online project portal keeps you up to date on progress throughout the build.
Can you build on a steep or difficult mountain lot?
Yes. Mountain lots are where our experience shows. We handle our own site work, including clearing, grading, drainage, and driveways, so we can give you an honest assessment of what it will take to build on your property and then do the work ourselves.
Can you look at a lot before I buy it?
Absolutely, and we recommend it. We’ll walk the property with you and give you a straight answer on what it will take to build there, before you commit.
Do I need an architect?
Many of our clients work with an architect or designer, and we’re glad to introduce you to professionals we’ve trusted for years. We price the design as it develops, so your vision and budget stay aligned.
Can you build my second home while I live out of town?
Yes. Many of our clients live elsewhere during construction. Bobby is personally involved on site, and our online project portal gives you photos, schedules, and progress updates from anywhere.
Are your homes energy efficient?
Yes. High efficiency is our standard on every home, not an upgrade. That means careful siting, a high-performance shell, and efficient systems sized to the home.
What areas do you build in?
We build throughout Asheville and the surrounding mountains of Western North Carolina, including Buncombe County, Weaverville, Black Mountain, Fairview, Hendersonville, Brevard, and Madison County.
Have you won any awards?
RCJ Building has earned the Gold Craftsmanship Award at the WNC Parade of Homes three times, most recently in 2024 for a home on Flat Top Mountain.
Do you do renovations?
Yes. Along with new custom homes, we take on renovations and remodels.
Do you help with problems on an existing property?
Yes. We diagnose and fix drainage problems, failing retaining walls, gutter drain failures, sewer and water line issues, and grading problems at the source.
How do I get started?
Call us at (828) 216-4433 or reach out through our contact page. We’d welcome the chance to meet you and walk your land together.
