What Is the Difference Between a Spec Home and a Custom Home?

What is a spec home?

Also known as a speculative house or move-in ready home, this kind of home is built by spec home builders with the intention of selling it as soon as it's finished. These homes are constructed without a specific buyer in mind, and instead, they are for those who want a move-in ready home without the wait. They’re ideal for buyers who don't want to go through the process of planning, designing, and construction.

Benefits of Buying a Spec Home

• Pre-Designed Layout: Spec homes come with pre-designed layouts and finishes chosen by the builder, offering a cohesive and professionally curated look.
• Move-In Ready: As soon as construction is complete, these homes are ready for you to move in, ideal for buyers who need to settle in quickly.
• Limited Customization: Since the home is already built, there’s little room for personal input on design or finishes.
• Quick Purchase: Perfect for those who don’t want to go through the lengthy process of building from scratch.
• Cost-Effective: Often more affordable than custom homes, building spec homes can help you get more house for your money.

So, if you’re in the market for a home that’s ready when you are, spec homes might just be your ticket to instant gratification. Some spec home builders in Atlanta are known for their efficiency and quality, making it easy to find a well-constructed speculative house in highly sought-after locations. Further along in this article, we'll tell you how to find the builder that's a perfect fit for you. 

What is a custom home?

A custom home is like a blank canvas. From the ground up, everything is tailored to your preferences and lifestyle needs. Unlike spec homes, custom homes give you the freedom to choose every single detail, from the layout to the finishes, ensuring your home is a perfect reflection of you.

This level of personalization means you get a home that truly fits your unique vision and everything you'd need to live comfortably and happily.

Key Features of Custom Homes:

• Personalized Design: Work with architects and builders to create a layout that suits your unique needs and vision.
• Choice of Finishes: Select everything from flooring to fixtures to make your home truly one-of-a-kind.
• Tailored to Your Lifestyle: Whether it’s a gourmet kitchen, a home office, or an outdoor living space, a custom home is built around your specific vision.
• Higher Investment: While custom homes can come at a higher cost, they are an investment in creating a home that is uniquely yours, with the potential for higher resale value and quality of life.

Building a custom home means you’re getting a home that's a personalized sanctuary designed to fit your life perfectly. This process also allows you to work closely with your builder, ensuring that every detail is executed to your exact specifications.

What is the difference between a spec home and a custom-built home?

So, what is the difference between a spec home and a custom-built home? The main difference lies in the level of personalization and involvement in the building process.

Spec homes are pre-designed and built without input from the eventual homeowner, making them ready for immediate move-in but with limited customization options, if any. On the other hand, custom homes allow you to be involved in every step of the design and construction process, ensuring that every detail meets your personal tastes and requirements.

For example, if you'd like your home office located off of your main bedroom with a separate exterior door going out to a private patio, a custom home is for you. Want a large kitchen with a scullery and adjacent mudroom to keep the messes at bay? Dream of a custom guest suite in the basement for your in-laws? A custom home can give you that.

You'll have control over the placement of your bedrooms, the features of your primary bathroom, and every other aspect of your home. 

Why do custom home companies build spec homes?

Ever wondered why custom home companies build spec homes? It’s not just about filling inventory; there are some strategic reasons behind it. These reasons include showcasing their skills, promoting their business, and building multiple homes in exclusive communities.

Showcase Their Skill

Building spec homes allows custom home builders to showcase their craftsmanship and complex building capabilities. It’s a way to display expertise and style to potential buyers who can see firsthand the quality of their work. Having these examples to experience first-hand can help someone imagine what living in a home by that particular builder would be like. 

Promote Their Business

Spec homes act as a live portfolio for builders. Prospective buyers touring these homes get inspired by the possibilities and are more likely to choose that builder for their custom home projects. By demonstrating their ability to create beautiful, move-in-ready homes, builders can effectively show off their custom home services.

Build Multiple Homes in Exclusive Communities

By building spec homes in exclusive luxury communities, builders establish a presence and reputation in highly desirable locations. These communities draw buyers looking for high-quality homes, making it a smart move to have ready-to-sell properties in these areas. This strategy helps builders appeal to future homeowners who value quality and exclusivity.

What is the difference between a spec home and a model home?

You might be wondering, what is the difference between a spec home and a model home? While both are pre-built, their purposes are different. A spec home, or move-in home, is constructed for sale and is ready for immediate occupancy. In contrast, a model home is built to showcase a builder’s work and serve as an example of what buyers can expect in their homes.

Key Differences:

• Purpose: Spec homes are built for sale, while model homes are meant to display features and finishes.
• Occupancy: Spec homes are ready for move-in, whereas model homes are typically not for sale until the community is complete.
• Customization: Buyers have no input in spec homes but can see potential customization options in model homes.

Model homes act as a showcase for the builder’s capabilities, giving potential buyers a taste of what their own home could look like, while spec homes are ready for those who want to move in quickly. Model homes are often used to help buyers visualize their future homes, making it easier to decide on customization options.

What are the disadvantages of buying a spec home?

While spec homes offer convenience and often come at a lower cost, there are some drawbacks to consider:

• Limited Customization: You have little to no say in the design and finishes, which might not suit your taste or needs.
• Potential for Compromise: The layout and features might not perfectly align with your lifestyle.
• Lack of Uniqueness: Spec homes can feel cookie-cutter and lack the unique touches that make a house feel like your own home. This is why it's important to find a spec home builder who values uniqueness, even in homes that aren't built with the input of a future owner. 

Despite these potential downsides, spec homes can still be a great option for many buyers, especially those who need to move quickly and are looking for a cost-effective solution. They are perfect for those who prioritize convenience over personalization.

How can you find a spec home to buy in Atlanta?

If you’re in the market for a spec home in Atlanta, there are several ways to find the best one for you.

Start by researching spec home builders Atlanta is known for, like Elevation Building Company. Look for builders with a strong reputation for quality and craftsmanship. You may also visit new construction communities and tour model homes to get a feel for what’s available.

Websites, real estate listings, and builder’s own sites often feature spec homes ready for sale. Don’t hesitate to reach out to builders directly to inquire about available spec homes and upcoming projects. This proactive approach can help you find the perfect home more quickly.

Contact Elevation Building Company

For those looking for spec homes or custom builds in exclusive communities like Governors Towne Club, Arden on Lanier, or Maison at Hollyberry, Elevation Building Company is a trusted name in the industry. We offer a range of move-in ready homes and custom home-building services to meet your every need. Ready to find your perfect home? Contact Elevation Building Company today for more information and to schedule a consultation. 

By partnering with Elevation Building Company, you can rest assured that you’re getting a home built with the highest level of quality, incredible care, and impeccable attention to detail. Whether you choose a spec home or decide to build custom, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.