Custom-Built Home Journey in Suwanee: Real Challenges, Rewards & Insights

We recently completed a nearly nine-month journey, closing on a gorgeous custom-built home in Suwanee during the first week of June 2025. What began as a straightforward home purchase evolved into a series of significant decisions made for the family’s future.

The Charm and Realities of Custom-Built Homes

Custom-built homes continue to grow in popularity. In 2024, about 20% of newly constructed U.S. homes were custom-designed, particularly among young couples seeking lifestyle-aligned spaces. However, with all the excitement comes a lot of decision-making stress: 65% of custom-home buyers report significant stress during design and material selections.

In my 11 years of real estate experience, this was my first custom build—and I was struck by how many small choices accumulate to shape a beautiful final home.

Suwanee’s Housing Market & Growth

• Population Growth: Suwanee has seen approximately 12% population growth from 2020 to 2025.
  
• Price Range: Newly built single-family homes average between $600,000–$850,000—ideal for those budgeting $700,000–$800,000.
  
• Scope Expansion: Our clients initially searched in Alpharetta and Johns Creek but expanded to Suwanee when they couldn’t find a home that matched their style preferences.
  

Family Setup & Home Criteria

Our clients were a soon-to-be family of three, expecting their first child. They wanted a cozy, functional, mid-sized home.

• Older homes carried too much renovation burden.
  
• Newer single-family styles felt almost like townhomes.
  They sought an open floor plan, modern design, and new materials—leading them toward a custom build, which ended up taking longer than expected.
  

Challenges of Remote Buying

A major factor in this case was remote buying. The expectant mother was staying in Korea, so all decisions had to be made remotely between her husband and me.

Nationally, 63% of buyers purchase a home without ever visiting it in person—a trend that has accelerated post-pandemic. In these cases, the agent’s careful advice and trust are essential. I communicated with the clients multiple times each day to make sure every decision was informed and confident.

Custom-Build Process with a Local Builder

In Suwanee, custom homes are typically built by smaller local builders, and that’s who we partnered with. This allowed for:

• Open floor plan
  
• Direct material and color choices
  
• Full input at every design stage
  

The freedom was thrilling—but it took time and added stress. I supported the clients every step of the way, fully understanding and respecting the weight of each decision.

Custom Home Buying by the Numbers

These numbers mirror our client experience and offer meaningful insight for anyone considering a custom build in Suwanee.

Completion & Client Satisfaction ❤️

After months of hard work and attention to detail, the completed home is more beautiful and refined than anyone expected. The couple told me, “We’re so happy to welcome our first child into such a lovely home.” Their satisfaction made every moment of this long journey worth it.