Custom Home Building Minneapolis | New Home Construction

Custom Home Building Services in the Twin Cities

 

Want to build your dream home? As an experienced custom home builder, we’ve built unique residences in the Twin Cities since 1996. Our team manages everything, from choosing your lot to the final walk-through. No juggling architects, builders, and designers – our family business handles your custom home renovation or new construction project under one roof.

Most folks call us when they’ve outgrown the “one-size-fits-all” approach of production builders. Maybe you’ve got specific needs that existing homes can’t meet, or you’ve finally found that perfect lot. Whatever you’re envisioning, we’ve probably built something similar for another Minneapolis family.

Our Custom Home Builder Services

Here’s how we create your perfect Twin Cities home:

Why Choose AMEK for Custom Home Building

Curious about our background? The Schmidt brothers started AMEK back in ’96, and we’re still family-owned. Learn more about AMEK Design + Build if you want to know who’ll be building your dream home.

True Design-Build Process

Our architects, designers, and construction team collaborate from day one. This integrated approach ensures that what we design is what we deliver.

Minnesota-Specific Expertise

We understand the unique challenges of building in our climate. From frost-protected foundations to roof systems engineered for snow loads, we build homes for real Minnesota living.

Our Design-Build Process

We guide you through every decision with clear communication and detailed planning. Building a custom home involves hundreds of choices – we make it manageable.

Quality Over Quantity

We deliberately limit the number of homes we build each year to maintain exceptional quality standards. Your home gets the attention it deserves.

Schmidt Family Values

Our family business brings 30 years of integrity to your project. Three brothers still work together, ensuring quality in every home we construct.

Reviews

Read what our Twin Cities clients have to say about their remodeling experiences and why they continue to recommend us to friends and family.

Our Custom Home Building Process

Here’s our approach to creating your dream home:

1. Initial Consultation

We discuss your vision, needs, budget, and timeline. We’re straight shooters about costs and possibilities from the very beginning.

2. Site Selection & Analysis

If you haven’t found land yet, we can help evaluate potential properties. For existing lots, we assess building conditions, views, and orientation.

3. Design Development

Our architects create a completely custom home design tailored to your lifestyle and lot. We develop floor plans, elevations, and 3D visualizations.

4. Material & Finish Selection

We guide you through selecting everything from exterior materials to doorknobs. Our designers help create cohesive, personalized interiors.

5. Construction Phase

Building begins! We maintain regular communication with detailed updates throughout the construction process. Our team welcomes your site visits.

6. Final Walkthrough & Homeowner Orientation

We thoroughly review your completed home, explaining systems and features before handing over the keys.

Custom Home Building FAQ

Here’s what Minneapolis homeowners ask about building custom homes.

Planning & Process

How long does it take to build a custom home in Minneapolis?

Typically, 9-12 months from breaking ground to move-in. Design development usually adds 3-6 months before construction begins. Weather, complexity, and material availability can affect timelines.

What's the typical cost range for custom homes in the Twin Cities?

Currently, quality custom homes start around $350-$400 per square foot and go up depending on design complexity, materials, and site conditions. A typical 3,500 sq ft custom home in Minneapolis generally ranges from $1.2-$2.5M+.

Do I need to have a lot before contacting you?

Not necessarily. We can help evaluate potential properties or work with the land you already own. Some clients secure our services before purchasing land so we can assess building feasibility.

Should we hire an architect first, then a builder?

Our design-build approach eliminates that traditional two-step process. Having architects and builders on the same team from day one means designs work with your budget and technical realities from the start.

How involved will we be in the process?

As involved as you’d like! Some clients participate in weekly site meetings and make every selection personally. Others prefer we handle details and just involve them in major decisions. We adapt to your preferred level of involvement.

Construction & Quality

How do you ensure quality construction in our Minnesota climate?

We use building science principles specifically for cold climates, including proper water management, vapor barriers, insulation details, and mechanical systems sized for temperature extremes.

Who oversees the actual construction of our home?

Your project has a dedicated construction manager who is regularly on site and supported by our full team. We also conduct specific quality control reviews throughout the project to ensure the work meets the standards established by the Schmidt brothers.

Can we visit the construction site?

Absolutely! We schedule regular walk-throughs and welcome your visits (with safety considerations). Many clients enjoy stopping by to see progress, though we ask for advance notice.

What about changes during construction?

We have a structured change order process for when inspiration strikes mid-project. We’ll price modifications and discuss schedule impacts before proceeding with any changes.

Do you use fixed-price contracts or cost-plus?

We primarily use fixed-price contracts with clearly defined allowances. This provides budget certainty while still allowing flexibility in your selections.

Design & Features

Can you build green/sustainable custom homes?

Absolutely! We can incorporate various levels of energy efficiency and sustainable features based on your priorities – from basic Energy Star certification to net-zero-ready homes.

How do you handle design for unusual or challenging lots?

We specialize in site-specific design that maximizes lot potential. Steep slopes, narrow urban lots, wetland setbacks – we’ve designed successful homes for all these challenges.

What architectural styles do you build?

We design in many styles authentic to their traditions – Craftsman, Modern, Transitional, Contemporary, Colonial, Modern Farmhouse, and more. We avoid “style mash-ups” that lack architectural integrity.

How much customization is truly possible?

Nearly unlimited. Unlike semi-custom builders who modify existing plans, we start with a blank sheet based on your needs. From custom built-ins to unique floor plans, your home will be truly one-of-a-kind.

Do you build homes for specific needs like aging-in-place or multigenerational living?

Yes! We design for long-term livability, whether that means first-floor primary suites, elevator provisions, in-law apartments, or universal design principles. Many clients build their “forever home” with future needs in mind.

After Completion

What kind of warranty do you provide on new homes?

We offer a comprehensive warranty program that includes 1-year workmanship, 2-year mechanical systems, and 10-year structural coverage. We also facilitate manufacturer warranties on products and materials.

How do you handle the inevitable small issues after we move in?

We conduct regular warranty visits according to our building performance guidelines. Of course, we address any urgent issues immediately. Our warranty service has built our reputation for standing behind our work.

Will our new home be energy efficient?

Absolutely. We build homes that significantly exceed Minnesota energy code requirements. Our standard practices include high-performance insulation packages, quality windows, air sealing, and efficient mechanical systems.

Do you help with landscape planning and outdoor living spaces?

Yes, our architectural plans include basic landscaping concepts. We can coordinate with landscape specialists or work with your preferred landscape professional to create outdoor living spaces that complement your new home.

Do you build in all areas around the Twin Cities?

We focus primarily on Minneapolis, St. Paul, and western/southwestern suburbs. We selectively take projects in other areas but concentrate on where we have established relationships with municipalities and subcontractors.

Custom Home Building Resources

Want some inspiration before you call us? Check out our blog for:

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Start Your Custom Home Project

Ready to discuss building your dream home? Give us a call at (952) 888-1200 or fill out our contact form. We’ll set up a consultation to discuss your vision, answer questions, and see if we’re a good fit for your project.