It’s a question a lot of people ask, especially if they’ve never gone through the process before. Whether it’s a single-family or a multi-unit project, turning a dream into a finished home takes time, coordination, and patience. There are multiple phases that affect the total build time including design, permits, and construction.
Below is a breakdown of how long each phase generally takes in Calgary, plus what can slow things down along the way.
Custom Home Project Timeline: Start to Finish
Every home and every site is different, so timelines can vary quite a bit. The following gives a realistic sense of what to expect in today’s market.
Discovery Phase
Timeline: 1 month
This is where you map out the big picture. Conversations typically cover lifestyle, must-haves, design preferences, and overall vision. If you don’t already have a builder in mind, this is also where you may get connected with one.
What can delay things:
Decision-making. It takes time to sort out what you really want, and clarity early on prevents costly revisions later.
Design and Development Phases
Timeline: 3 months
Concepts and sketches turn into 3D models and detailed design drawings. Through this phase, there’s usually ongoing communication with designers and sometimes the municipality to ensure ideas align with zoning and land use requirements.
What can delay things:
Complexity. More customization equals more detail and requires more feedback and approvals. Slow response time during reviews can stretch timelines as well.
Permit Approval Phase
Single-Family and Semi-Detached
Development Permit: 3 to 4 months
Building Permit: 1 month
Multi-Unit
Development Permit: 4 to 5 months
Building Permit: 1 to 2 months
Development permits deal with land use while building permits deal with construction and safety codes. Both are necessary before a shovel hits the ground.
What can delay things:
Public consultation and neighbour feedback can extend timelines. Relaxation requests and bylaw considerations can also add steps.
Construction Phase
Single-Family: 10 to 14 months
Multi-Unit: 12 to 18 months
Once permits are issued, construction begins. This includes:
• Site prep and excavation
• Foundation and waterproofing
• Framing and roofing
• Plumbing, HVAC, and electrical rough-ins
• Insulation and drywall
• Exterior finishes and windows
• Interior finishes, millwork, and appliances
• Landscaping and exterior detailing
Afterward, you get final inspections, walkthroughs, and a punch-list review to make sure everything is dialed in before move-in.
What can delay things:
Weather, trade availability, material shortages, and the complexity of the build all matter. Calgary winters especially can slow exterior work.
So What’s the Total Time From Start to Finish?
For most Calgary projects, a realistic timeline from early conversations to move-in is roughly 18 to 30 months, depending on scope, design choices, and property type.
Turning a Dream Into a Home
Designing and building a custom home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When there’s alignment between designer, builder, and client, the process is surprisingly exciting and rewarding.
If you’re considering a custom home or multi-unit project and want to get a clearer sense of timelines, budget, builder options, or feasibility, I’m always happy to chat.
Ready to explore a custom home project in Calgary? Reach out and let’s talk next steps.
