The questions Branka and Edmir hear on nearly every consultation call. If yours isn't here, ask us — we'll add it (and answer directly).
- How long does a custom home take from contract to move-in?
- Most MIR builds run 14-22 months. The first 4-6 months is design + permits, the next 10-16 is on-site construction. We have a full breakdown in our Timeline guide.
- What does a custom home actually cost in the Des Moines metro?
- True custom builds at MIR finish levels start around $350-$425 per square foot for the build cost, excluding the lot. A typical 4,500 sf custom build lands between $1.6M and $2.4M plus land. Our cost guide breaks down the line items.
- Should we buy the lot first, or work on plans first?
- Almost always lot first. The lot dictates so much of the design — slope, orientation, soils, easements, HOA constraints — that designing in the abstract and then trying to fit the result onto a specific parcel usually leads to compromises. We're happy to walk a lot with you before you make an offer.
- Do you work with our architect, or do you have your own?
- Both. We have several architects we trust and recommend if you're starting from scratch. We also work easily with architects you bring to the project. Occasionally we design-build with our own team. Each model has tradeoffs and we'll talk through what's right for your situation.
- Where do you build?
- Across the Des Moines metro. Our most-built cities are West Des Moines, Waukee, Clive, Urbandale, and broader Dallas County. We also build in Ankeny, Grimes, Norwalk, Polk City, and acreage builds further out. If you're not sure whether your area is in our service area, just ask.
- Do you do remodels or only new builds?
- Both. Whole-home remodels, kitchen renovations, primary suite reworks, additions, basement finishes — same craftsmanship as our new builds, applied to existing homes. See our remodeling section.
- How big is your team? Will I work with the owners directly?
- Yes. MIR is small on purpose. Branka and Edmir personally walk every site weekly and take every prospective client call. You won't be handed off to a sales rep or junior project manager.
- How are change orders priced?
- Each change order gets a written scope, price, and schedule impact before any work proceeds. You approve in writing. No surprises on the next invoice. Contingency budget protects against the truly unforeseen; everything optional gets explicitly approved.
- Do you provide warranty on the home?
- Yes. We provide a one-year general workmanship warranty plus pass-through manufacturer warranties on appliances, fixtures, and finishes. Structural warranties run longer per Iowa code. We address warranty items promptly — often the same week.
- Can we see homes you've recently completed?
- Absolutely. We have project pages for our recent published work. For private viewings of homes still under owner privacy preferences, that's a conversation we have once we're working together. We can also connect you with past clients who've offered to take calls.
- What if we want to make changes mid-build?
- We try to minimize this by locking selections during design — that's when changes are cheap. Mid-build changes can extend timeline by weeks and add real cost, but they're allowed and we'll always price them honestly. Some clients fall in love with details once the home is taking shape; we accommodate where it makes sense.
- Do you handle financing?
- We don't lend, but we work closely with several construction lenders in Des Moines. We can introduce you to lenders who understand luxury custom builds and the draw schedule we use. See our financing guide.
- Is this a good time to build?
- Honest answer: it's always a complicated question, and depends on your specific goals, financial situation, and how much time you can commit. We'd rather have an honest conversation about your real situation than give you a generic 'yes!' to get you in the door. Schedule a consultation.