What does a fixed price builder mean in home construction?

A fixed price builder locks the total construction cost in the contract before work begins. The quoted number is what you pay, regardless of what the builder encounters during construction. Terrain issues, material waste, and subcontractor overruns are the builder's responsibility, not the owner's. The only exceptions are scope changes the owner initiates after signing.

Does a fixed price contract cover land clearing and site prep?

It depends on the builder. At FTH Construction, yes. Our fixed price includes land clearing, grading, building pad preparation, erosion control, and access road work. Some builders exclude site prep and quote only the structure, which means your "fixed" price is missing the most variable cost on a mountain lot. Always ask before signing.

What is the difference between fixed price and cost-plus for a mountain home build?

Fixed price means the builder absorbs cost overruns from terrain, weather, or construction surprises. Cost-plus means the owner pays actual costs plus a builder fee of 15% to 25%, so every unexpected expense increases the total. In our observation of cost-plus projects on mountain lots in this corridor, final costs commonly run 15% to 30% above the original estimate.

How long does a mountain property build take in Fannin County or Gilmer County?

A typical mountain home build in the Blue Ridge or Ellijay area takes 5 to 9 months from permit to certificate of occupancy. Timeline depends on foundation type, lot access, weather windows, and whether septic and well work is needed. FTH provides a projected timeline alongside the fixed quote, with milestones tied to the draw schedule.

How much does it cost to build a custom home in North Georgia in 2026?

Custom home construction in North Georgia ranges from $150 to $400+ per square foot depending on finish level, lot difficulty, and location. FTH works across the full price range, starting lower for straightforward cabin builds on accessible lots and scaling up for complex mountain sites. The fixed price quote reflects your specific lot and scope, not an industry average.

Is septic installation included in a fixed price home build in Georgia?

At FTH, yes. We coordinate the perc test, handle the county health department permits, and include septic system installation in the fixed contract price. Not all builders do this. If septic is listed as a separate line item or "allowance," your fixed price is incomplete.

Fixed Price Builder: North Georgia Mountain Property