Our Process

Wondering what goes into building a house?

Here’s what you’ll need to know about the process we take to build your home.
1
Vision

Define the Vision and Find the Right Property

This is the “big picture” phase.
This process begins with questions. How do you want to live? Where do you want to be? What feels essential, and what’s flexible? Are you renovating an existing home, building an addition, or constructing a new home? On Cape Cod, zoning laws, conservation and historical committees, and permitting all influence the building process. Understanding these realities early—sometimes before purchasing land—can help you avoid surprises and choose a site and scope of work that truly supports your vision.
2
Team + Budget

Assemble the Right Team

Early guidance is crucial.
Building a home is a collaborative effort. Early in the process, homeowners typically bring together an architect and a builder. Depending on preference and complexity, you may also select a designer to be a part of the team. When this team is aligned from the start, design ideas, budgets, and regulatory requirements can evolve together—rather than competing with one another later. Having experienced guidance early on helps the process feel clearer and more enjoyable.
3
Design

Architectural Design and Preliminary Selections

Where ideas become real.
Design is not a single decision—it’s a series of conversations. As plans take shape, you will begin making important selections, from layout and materials to finishes and details that will make your house feel like home. The construction budget is finalized, and the building contract is signed at this stage. Once the design and major selections are in place, the project moves forward into the next stage.
4
Planning + Permitting

Construction Documents & Permitting

When precision is paramount.
This phase begins with a series of applications for the building permit. It often includes zoning and conservation review and can take time, especially on the Cape. After the building permit is approved, materials from the preliminary selections are ordered. With a clear plan and an experienced team, this stage becomes about preparation rather than frustration—setting the foundation for a smoother construction process. 
5
Construction

Build the Home

The most visible phase.
Construction is where ideas become reality. A successful build balances structure with adaptability, coordinating skilled trades, responding thoughtfully to challenges, and staying closely connected through conversations and job site visits. The homeowner has many decisions and selections to make during the building phase. A good builder will guide you through this process so that you feel informed and supported as the home takes shape.
6
Completion+ ongoing care

Move In and Settle In

Turning your house into a functioning home.
As construction wraps up, final details are completed and the home is prepared for move-in. The transition from job site to home should be exciting! With the right builder, you will settle in with confidence, knowing your home was built with a commitment to your vision. Our ongoing care and pride in the finished work doesn’t end when the keys are handed over. We offer advice, help, and maintenance services for our clients' homes whenever they need it.

With you every step of the process

Whether you’ve built a house before or this is your first home on Cape Cod, at Kendall & Welch, we guide Cape Cod homeowners through the building process with integrity, collaboration, and care.
owners

Ready to build your dream home?

Schedule a consultation with us today!
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