Building a Custom Home in Seattle: What to Expect
By Eric Dexter, Owner & Builder ·
DIGS is known for backyard homes, but we build full custom homes too — and it's where owner Eric Dexter started back in 1989. If you're thinking about building a custom home in the Seattle area, here's what to expect.
What “custom home” really means
A custom home is designed around your lot and your life — not a spec plan dropped onto any parcel. That means more say over layout, finishes and how the home works with its site, and a process that starts with your goals rather than a fixed floor plan.
What it costs
Custom single-family homes in the Greater Seattle area typically run about $400,000–$700,000+ all-in, or roughly $400–$700+ per square foot, depending on size, finishes and site conditions. As always, the honest number includes design, permitting and site work — not just the framing. See the full picture on our realistic costs page or estimate a build with the cost calculator.
Timeline
Plan for design and permitting to run several months, then construction on top of that — a custom home is typically a 12–18+ month journey depending on size and complexity. Our process page lays out how each phase flows.
The Seattle-lot factor
The biggest variable in Pacific Northwest building is the site. Slopes, Environmental Critical Areas, drainage and utilities can add real cost and complexity, which is why we start with a feasibility study — confirming what your lot allows and what it'll really take before you commit.
Choosing a builder
A custom home is a big, long relationship, so the builder matters as much as the design. Look for licensing, honest all-in pricing, and someone accountable to you directly — the same things we cover in how to choose a contractor.
Why DIGS
Owner-led, 35+ years, 100+ homes and DADUs delivered across the Greater Seattle area — with Eric on every site from the first call to final inspection. See our completed work, or start a conversation about your custom home.
