At Stillwater, we’ve helped homeowners across Greater Victoria create beautiful, functional custom homes that are built to last. But beyond design inspiration and material selections, there are important lessons that only come from years of building in this unique coastal region. Whether you’re in the early stages of dreaming or deep into planning, these 12 insights will help you make smarter, more confident decisions.
1. Contact the Builder Before You Hire an Architect
Most people assume the first step is hiring an architect, but starting with a builder can save you time, money, and stress. At Stillwater, we work with many talented architects and designers across Victoria, and we can help you find the right fit based on your goals and your budget. We also provide early insight into zoning restrictions, site conditions, and construction feasibility so your design stays grounded in reality.
2. Have Realistic Cost Expectations
Custom home costs often catch homeowners off guard. In Victoria, where land, labour, and material costs continue to rise, we advise budgeting more than you think you'll need. From excavation challenges to high-performance materials and local permitting costs, it's smart to plan conservatively. We always aim to build efficiently, but realistic expectations help you avoid disappointment and keep your project moving forward smoothly.
3. Plan Years in Advance (If Possible)
In a tight market like Victoria, planning early makes all the difference. Permits can take months to secure, especially for waterfront or sloped lots, and quality architects and builders book up quickly. Even if you're not ready to build next year, start conversations now. Early planning gives you more choices and more control.
4. Contact a Builder Early, Even If You’re Not Ready
We often hear from clients who are just starting to explore ideas, and that’s exactly when we want to talk. Even if your timeline is long, speaking with a builder early can help you evaluate land options, connect you with the right professionals, and get a clear picture of what your investment could look like. The earlier you get input, the more empowered your decisions will be.
5. Make Design Changes on Paper, Not During Construction
One of the most expensive mistakes you can make is changing your mind once construction has started. Even a small design tweak can require new drawings, re-permitting, schedule delays, and added costs. That’s why we guide clients through every decision during pre-construction. Once you're confident in your plans, the actual build becomes much smoother and more predictable.
6. Don’t Skip the Pre-Construction Phase
Pre-construction is where the real groundwork happens. It includes budgeting, permitting, planning, scheduling, and trade coordination. Skipping or rushing this phase often leads to delays or budget overruns down the road. At Stillwater, we see pre-construction as the most critical stage of any successful custom home. It is where we solve problems before they happen.
7. Build for the Landscape, Not Just the View
Designing a home that blends with the natural surroundings is key in Victoria’s rugged coastal environment. While everyone loves a great view, things like sun exposure, slope, wind patterns, and drainage all affect how your home performs. We take these elements into account to create a home that not only looks beautiful but feels comfortable and functions efficiently.
8. Your Builder Should Feel Like a Partner
The relationship you have with your builder matters. This is someone who will guide you through one of the most important investments of your life. At Stillwater, we believe in building strong, respectful partnerships. That means open communication, transparent pricing, and shared commitment to quality. You should feel confident that your builder is advocating for your vision every step of the way.
9. Think Long-Term with Materials and Systems
Victoria’s coastal climate is tough on homes. That’s why we help clients choose materials and systems that are built to withstand moisture, salt air, and shifting temperatures. From exterior cladding to energy-efficient heat pumps, the right long-term choices will reduce your maintenance costs and increase comfort over time. Good design should last decades, not just seasons.
10. Focus on the Function, Not Just the Finish
While beautiful finishes matter, your daily experience in the home depends on layout, storage, lighting, and flow. We help clients think through how they use each room, where they drop their keys, how they enter with groceries, or where the dog sleeps. A functional home makes everyday life feel effortless. It’s not just about what looks good in photos, it’s about what works for your lifestyle.
11. Budget for Site-Specific Surprises
Victoria’s geography is beautiful, but it can also be challenging to build on. Sloped lots, bedrock, unstable soil, and water drainage issues are common in many neighbourhoods. Even with careful planning, surprises can arise during excavation or permitting. That’s why we always recommend setting aside a contingency fund of at least 10 to 15 percent. Having that buffer makes it easier to respond to challenges without compromising quality.
12. Understand That Permitting Can Be Complex
Victoria and its surrounding municipalities each have their own permitting rules, and depending on the lot, permits can take several months or longer. Waterfront properties, heritage overlays, or tree protection bylaws can all add time and complexity. At Stillwater, we handle permitting on your behalf, ensuring all submissions are accurate and timely. But understanding the process up front will help you set realistic expectations for your timeline.
Start Smarter, Build Better
These insider tips come from years of building custom homes across Victoria, Saanich, Oak Bay, and the surrounding area. At Stillwater, we take pride in guiding homeowners through every step with transparency, creativity, and care. If you're thinking about building, even if you’re years away, we invite you to start the conversation with us today.
Contact us today and let's explore what’s possible with your project.
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