Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Want to Know Before You Build

Building a custom home is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make. These are the questions our clients ask most — answered honestly, without the sales pitch.

Getting Started

How do I know if PHB is the right builder for my project?

The best way to know is to have a conversation. PHB is a relationship-driven, custom home builder serving Acadiana — we work with buyers who value transparency, quality craftsmanship, and a builder who is personally involved from start to finish. If you are looking for the lowest price per square foot, we are probably not the right fit. If you are looking for a builder you can trust with the most significant investment of your life, we would like to talk.

What is the first step to building a custom home with PHB?

The first step is a no-pressure conversation. We want to understand your vision, your timeline, and your priorities before we talk numbers or contracts. From there we can help you determine which path — Build On Your Lot, new construction, or design-build — makes the most sense for your situation. You can reach us through our contact page or by calling (337) 628-2463.

What areas does PHB serve?

Prestigious Home Builders serves all of Acadiana, including Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, Carencro, Scott, Duson, Maurice, New Iberia, and surrounding communities. Our team has built extensively across this region for over eighteen years and our knowledge of Acadiana’s soils, climate, and building codes runs deep.

What types of homes does PHB build?

PHB specializes in three types of custom home projects: Build On Your Lot (BOYL), where we build a fully custom home on land you own or help you find; new construction homes within PHB’s active communities, including Audubon Parc in Lafayette; and design-build projects, where PHB guides the entire process from concept through completion under one unified team.

Build On Your Lot

Do I need to own land before contacting PHB about a Build On Your Lot project?

No. PHB works with clients at every stage. If you already own land, we begin with a site evaluation to assess buildability. If you are still searching, our team has relationships across Acadiana and can help you identify and evaluate suitable lots before you commit to a purchase.

Do I need architectural plans before coming to PHB?

Not at all. PHB works both ways. If you have existing plans from an architect, we build from them. If you are starting from scratch, we connect you with trusted design partners in Acadiana and guide you through the entire design process. Either path leads to the same result — a home built to your exact specifications.

How long does a Build On Your Lot project take from start to finish?

Most PHB Build On Your Lot projects complete within nine to twelve months from contract execution to certificate of occupancy. This assumes timely selections and no significant design changes mid-build. PHB sets clear milestones at the start of every project so you always know where you are in the process.

What is the typical cost of a Build On Your Lot home with PHB?

PHB Build On Your Lot homes typically begin at $800,000 and above, reflective of the level of custom craftsmanship, material quality, and hands-on builder involvement every PHB project receives. During your initial consultation we work through your program and priorities to provide a realistic picture of what your specific build will require.

Cost, Contracts & Financing

What does cost-plus mean and how does it work?

Cost-plus means you pay the actual cost of construction — materials, labor, and subcontractors — plus PHB’s clearly stated builder fee. Every invoice is visible to you. There are no hidden markups, no inflated line items, and no profit buried inside your material costs. PHB uses this open-book model for Build On Your Lot projects. For new construction homes within PHB communities and design-build projects on PHB land, we offer a turnkey fixed price — the scope and cost are defined upfront so you know exactly what you are getting before construction begins.

Can I make changes to the design or selections after construction has started?

Yes. PHB understands that decisions evolve. Changes during construction are handled through a formal change order process — every modification is documented, priced transparently, and approved by you before any additional work begins. We make the change order process straightforward so you always know the cost and impact of any revision before committing to it.

Does PHB help with construction financing?

Yes. PHB has relationships with preferred construction lenders in Acadiana who understand the custom home building process. We are happy to connect you with lenders who can walk you through construction loan options, draw schedules, and permanent financing before your project begins.

What is included in PHB’s builder fee?

PHB’s builder fee covers project management, builder oversight, scheduling and coordination of all subcontractors, quality control throughout the build, and Ray Mitchell’s direct involvement from pre-construction through delivery. It is a clearly stated percentage of construction cost — disclosed upfront in your contract with no hidden additions on top of it.

The Build Process

How involved is Ray Mitchell in my build?

Directly and personally involved throughout. PHB is a builder-led firm — Ray Mitchell is not a figurehead. He is on site, present at key milestones, and accessible to clients throughout the build. You are not handed off to a project manager after signing a contract. The relationship you build with Ray from your first conversation carries through to your final walkthrough.

How does PHB handle communication during the build?

PHB prioritizes proactive, consistent communication throughout every project. You receive regular updates on progress, upcoming milestones, and any decisions that require your input. Our clients are never left wondering what is happening with their home. Clear communication is not a bonus feature at PHB — it is a standard part of how we operate.

What happens at the end of the build?

Before you receive your keys, PHB conducts a thorough final walkthrough of your completed home. Any punch list items are documented in detail and resolved before closing. You move into a home that has been inspected, corrected, and delivered to the standard PHB is known for across Acadiana.

Does PHB offer a warranty on completed homes?

Yes. PHB follows the Louisiana New Home Warranty Act, which provides statutory protections for new home buyers in Louisiana. This includes coverage for workmanship, systems, and structural components over defined periods following completion. Your PHB contract will outline the specific warranty terms applicable to your project.

Communities & Portfolio

What communities does PHB currently build in?

PHB is currently active in Audubon Parc, a curated community in the Lafayette area reflecting PHB’s commitment to timeless Southern architecture, thoughtful neighborhood design, and long-term livability. New communities are added as PHB grows — contact us for the most current availability.

Can I tour completed PHB homes?

PHB participates in the annual Parade of Homes in Acadiana, which is one of the best opportunities to walk through completed PHB builds and experience the craftsmanship firsthand. Our portfolio gallery also showcases professional photography from a wide range of completed projects. For availability of in-person tours of specific homes, contact us directly.

How many homes has PHB built?

PHB has been building custom homes across Acadiana for over eighteen years. Our portfolio includes named builds across multiple Lafayette-area communities — from Parade of Homes entries like Southern Grace and Evangeline to custom residences like The Water’s Edge, Maison Royale, Bayou Grace, and Creole Belle. Our body of work reflects a consistent standard of craftsmanship across a wide range of architectural styles.

Still Have Questions?

Let’s Talk

Every build is different. If your question isn’t answered here, we’re happy to have a direct conversation — no pressure, no obligation.