The International Residential Code (IRC) is a comprehensive code that establishes a minimum standard for many of the components involved in the construction or repair of a one-or two family-residence, one-to-three stories high. Covered elements include building materials, plumbing, electrical systems and energy efficiency. Most cities with residential building codes adopt the IRC as their basic standard. San Antonio, like many other cities, amend the IRC to better suit local requirements. Rest assured that when you choose us to build on your lot San Antonio codes are strictly enforced. We also go one step further for our clients by providing third-party inspections following the completion of each one of the ten critical construction phases.

When you’re in the market for a new home and are interested in working with one of the San Antonio home builders, you don’t need to look any further than Design Tech Homes. Since 1997, our family-owned business has been helping thousands of Houston and San Antonio residents realize their dream of owning a custom-built home. You buy the lot, and we’ll build the home using energy-efficient materials and LED lighting that lower utility bills while keeping the interior comfortable all year long. If you wish, you may also choose to include environment-friendly solar power and bamboo floors in your design.

The San Antonio Independent School District includes 90 campuses educating students in grades PK-12. Click on the links for more detailed information.

• List of schools
• Search by home address
• Magnets and specialized schools

College life is a large part of San Antonio’s cultural scene. Two of the most well-known institutions include:

• The University of Texas at San Antonio
• Texas A&M University–San Antonio

From amusement parks and vineyards to world-class shopping and shady spots along the river, San Antonio has something for everyone. Discover these places that are just minutes away:
There’s always something happening in this vibrant city. Spend a pleasant hour or more at one of these locales.

Attractions

• The Alamo
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas
• SeaWorld
• San Antonio Zoo

Shopping

• North Star Mall
• Shops at Rivercenter
• The Shops at La Cantera
• Alamo Quarry Market

Parks

• River Walk
• Brackenridge Park
• Woodlawn Lake Park
• San Pedro Springs Park
• Phil Hardberger Park

Restaurants

• Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse
• Bliss
• Biga on the Banks
• Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

San Antonio has established a central service center that enables its residents to not only pay their electric and water bills, traffic tickets and property tax on the site but which also allows them to report a number of issues including overgrown yards, unpermitted work, junk vehicles and potholes. Call 311 for non-emergency services.

Everyone deserves to have a home that is right for them, and that is what you can get when you hire us for your project. If you have questions or would like to move forward, we encourage you to reach out to us the second you get a chance, and we will get started in no time.

Do I have to own land?
In order to execute an agreement to build your home, you will need to have a property either owned or under contract to close, soon.

Does Design Tech Homes own any lots that I can buy?
We are a custom home builder that has specialized and one of the first to introduce the “Build on your Land” concept. We currently do not own any lots or land for you to purchase, however, we are constantly looking for available properties to purchase and this may change in the future.

Do you help us find land?
Our sales team can assist you in finding a Realtor® to help you locate a property to purchase.

What are Site Costs?
Site costs include things that are not part of the structure, things that allow your home to be built on the property, and things that provide utility services to the home. Site Costs may include, but not limited to, such things as Septic/Sewer, Water-line/Water Wells, electrical service to the home, driveways, sidewalks, culverts, additional grading material, additional foundation height, etc.

Are Site Costs included in your base prices?
Site costs are estimated during our initial site visit with you, your sales consultant, and the Construction & Area Managers; and then added to the cost of the project.

Can I do my own Site work?
You may perform certain site work on your property; in fact, most of the site work can be done by the land owner. We have specific guidelines to follow to ensure certain site work is performed properly. Your sales consultant can explain and help guide you through this process.

What is the average price per square foot for a custom home?
Custom Home Pricing includes a wide variety of variables that can dramatically affect the price of the project, so it is virtually impossible to quote an average. One small example: let’s compare a 50×50 home which has 2,500 square feet; but so does a 25×100 home. However, the 50×50 home only has 200 LF of frame and slab, when the 25×100 home has 250 LF. So, without even upgrading anything, you already have 50 LF more of framing, flooring, sheetrock, etc. So although it may be frustrating and appear your sales consultant is trying to dance around the question, he/she cannot answer it without knowing everything there is to know about the entire project, before pricing. We run about $120-$160/sf on average.

Can I provide my own materials, such as light fixtures or appliances?
You can select certain materials for your home; however, because we warrant your home and the installation of the materials, we must purchase them for you and have them installed by our vendors (i.e. trades, workers, laborers). If there are certain things you want, please consult with your sales consultant, immediately. Chances are, we carry the same product in our selection line or at least something very comparable.

I know several people that do certain things, like electricians and plumbers, can I use them?
All of our vendors must pass rigorous company guidelines to ensure your home is being built by the highest quality craftsman or licensed professions in the field. However, if you do have a specific vendor you’d like for us to use, please consult with you sales person, immediately, and he/she can get them in touch with the department that handles certifying all our vendors.

I want to finish my own interiors, will you build unfinished spaces?
We do construct unfinished spaces, such as future bonus rooms in attics, etc. However, we cannot construct an unfinished space in any area that would be considered as part of the livable square footage of the home. Please consult with your sales person and they can help guide you through this process.

Do you build GREEN?
Most of the materials used today in residential construction must be “green” per IBC’s (International Building Codes). For example, all paints must be free of or have very low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). And, virtually all lumber is made from forest where they practice re-planting. If you have specific questions about any material, please consult with your sales person.

What if I want to use foam insulation instead of your BIB® system?
We build to the highest energy levels per the Energy Star Certified Program®. In fact, we are typically the only “custom builder” listed on the Houston or San Antonio area per their web site. Therefore, we feel the BIB® System is a proven method of insulation. However, yes, we will use foam insulation if you still feel you would like it in place of the BIB® System. Your sales person can price this for you.

Can I include a pool in my plans?
Yes – we can assist you with including a pool in your project. We do not construct pools; however, we can work with your pool contractor and incorporate it into the project. You should consult with your lender, if financing, to ensure they will allow this to occur.

Do I have to sell my house first?
Most of our clients do not have to sell their current home before starting the construction process. This will be a topic to discuss with the construction lenders that you consider using.

How long does it take from start to finish?
Currently about 10-12 months from signing a contract to move-in. Location and size of project can vary timing.

Do you work on Allowances or a Fixed Cost?
We are a fixed cost builder. Initially we have some allowances as place holders in our contract, but once all selections are finalized, we offer a fixed cost for the entire project.

What is your warranty on the home?
1 year builder “bumper-to-bumper” warranty, ACES Warranty, Manufacturer’s Warranties

Do you handle the HOA/Architectural Control Committee approvals? What about Permits?
Yes. We will submit for, coordinate, and handle all aspects of obtaining approvals, permits, and any surveys needed.

Can you give me some references?
Absolutely. We can share references of clients in different stages of the process, as well as those with completed homes.

What if something doesn’t turn out right, or needs to be changed during construction?
We always want you to be completely satisfied. We will always do what is right, and help you get exactly what you want. We can make changes during construction if required, and is not uncommon for adjustments to be considered. “Whatever it takes!” is our perspective.

How many homes has DTH built?
Years in business? We have built nearly 3000 homes in Texas over the past 23 years.