If you want to build custom homes, you need to find a client to build for. If you want to build a spec house, you need a set of plans and a banker that will loan you money (cost of the house + whatever you want to pay yourself). Depending on how hot the market is, residential margins can be anywhere from 15-25%. Go online and find comparisons for other houses in your area with similar square footage/finishes/lot size/ etc. Do some napkin math based off the estimate of your building costs with those price comparisons to see if it will pencil out.

Finding a foreman/superintendent is crucial unless you want to do that part yourself. My superintendent does all of the trim/finish/miscellaneous work and I subcontract the rest out. Self performing work will always make you more money if you have a good crew and know what you’re doing.

Download an estimating software that also tracks your job costs. Estimate the cost of the project and put a 10% contingency on top of your budget to cover unforeseen costs that you missed during the takeoff or for unforeseen circumstances.

You’ll learn something new on every project. Some will go great some won’t. Treat your subcontractors fair and always have your crews back. Loyalty goes a long way and word will spread fast in the industry.

Bigger the house bigger the risk better the margins better the money. Start small and work your way up.