From Dream to Dirt: What Happens Between Signing and Site Prep

From Dream to Dirt: What Happens Between Signing and Site Prep

So, you’ve signed the contract on your custom home build. The vision is clear, the excitement is real, and now you’re ready to see things start moving. But then... nothing seems to happen. No machinery. No ground-breaking ceremony. Just quiet.

Welcome to one of the most important (and least understood) phases of the custom home journey: the window between signing and site prep.

At Homes by Westgate, we call this the "silent sprint." Behind the scenes, our team is actively laying the groundwork — literally and figuratively — to ensure your build is set up for success. Here's what really happens during this critical phase:

1. Finalizing the Blueprint

Even if your initial design is nearly complete, now is the time for last tweaks. Our in-house architecture team will fine-tune plans to align with engineering standards, municipal feedback, and any final design preferences you've expressed. This is where vision becomes reality, down to the millimetre.

2. Navigating Permits & Approvals

This is often the lengthiest part of the process. Depending on your location (especially in areas like Whistler or West Vancouver), permit timelines can range from a few weeks to several months. Our team handles all communications with municipal offices, ensuring every i is dotted and t crossed.

3. Site Survey & Geotech Reporting

Before a single shovel hits the ground, we need to understand exactly what’s beneath it. A survey crew will assess the topography and boundaries of your lot. In some cases, we’ll bring in geotechnical engineers to analyze soil stability, drainage, and other structural considerations.

4. Budget Lock + Build Schedule

With finalized plans and permit windows, we can now commit to your build schedule. We’ll also review your construction budget one last time, ensuring it reflects the final scope of the project, including allowances for finishes, materials, and contingencies.

5. Interior Design Kickoff

While the crew preps the site, your interior design journey begins. You'll start working with our team (or your chosen designer) to map out finishes, fixtures, cabinetry, lighting, and more. This process runs parallel to site prep and helps keep the overall timeline tight.

6. Mobilization: Getting Ready to Build

This is where things start to feel real. Temporary fencing, driveway access, portable washrooms, material delivery schedules, and excavation equipment are all arranged in this phase. We make sure your site is safe, prepped, and perfectly queued for ground-breaking.

Why This Phase Matters

It might feel like a waiting game, but this phase is where the foundation of a great build is truly laid. By the time we break ground, every piece is in place — meaning fewer surprises, fewer delays, and a smoother experience from day one.

So if you’ve signed and it seems quiet, rest assured: we’re already sprinting toward your dream.

Want to know what your site prep timeline looks like? Reach out anytime. We’re happy to walk you through it.