Custom vs. Semi-Custom Homes: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?

March 10, 2025

Thinking About Building a New Home?


If you’re exploring the idea of building a new home in Orange County, you’ve likely come across the terms “custom” and “semi-custom.” While they sound similar, the differences can significantly affect your experience, your budget, and the final result.


At RJ Murphy Construction, we help homeowners in Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and Corona del Mar navigate these decisions with confidence. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Custom Home?

A custom home is built entirely from scratch based on your unique vision. Every aspect—from the floor plan to the finishes—is tailored to your lifestyle, tastes, and the characteristics of your lot.

Benefits of a custom home:

  • 100% personalized layout and design
  • Choose every material, fixture, and feature
  • Flexibility to design around your lot’s shape, slope, and views
  • One-of-a-kind architectural style

Considerations:

  • Longer design and build timeline (12–24 months)
  • Higher overall cost
  • Requires more decision-making and involvement


What Is a Semi-Custom Home?

A semi-custom home begins with a pre-designed floor plan, which you can modify to a certain extent. You’ll typically choose from a set of approved layouts and customize finishes, room options, and some structural elements.

Benefits of a semi-custom home:

  • Shorter build timeline (6–12 months)
  • Lower cost compared to fully custom homes
  • Easier design process with fewer decisions

Limitations:

  • Limited changes to the floor plan
  • Less flexibility with lot use and placement
  • Some design elements may be fixed or come with upgrade costs


Which One Is Right for You?

The decision between a custom and semi-custom home often comes down to your:

  • Budget: Custom homes are a bigger investment but offer more value in personalization and resale appeal.
  • Timeline: If you need to move quickly, a semi-custom home may be the better route.
  • Vision: If you have a strong design aesthetic or non-traditional needs, a custom home is the best way to bring your vision to life.
  • Lot Type: Complex or sloped lots often require custom plans for proper fit and compliance.

At RJ Murphy Construction, we specialize in fully custom homes that are a true reflection of your style, values, and lifestyle. From modern farmhouses in Newport Beach to sleek coastal homes in Corona del Mar, we turn ideas into architectural reality.



Real Client Story: Why One Couple Chose Custom

A family in Huntington Beach originally considered a semi-custom home but realized none of the floor plans captured their vision for indoor-outdoor living and multi-generational needs. Working with RJ Murphy Construction, they:

  • Designed a custom split-level layout
  • Integrated a private in-law suite
  • Added a rooftop deck with ocean views
  • Chose high-efficiency windows and solar-ready systems

Their result? A truly personalized home designed for generations to enjoy.


Final Thoughts: Build the Home That Fits You

Whether you choose custom or semi-custom, your home should reflect how you live, not just where you live. RJ Murphy Construction brings decades of design-build experience to every project, helping you make informed decisions every step of the way.

Ready to start your dream build? Contact us for a no-obligation consultation.



FAQs: Custom vs. Semi-Custom Homes in Orange County

Is a custom home more expensive than semi-custom? Yes, typically. Custom homes involve more planning, flexibility, and labor, resulting in higher total cost.

Can I build a semi-custom home on any lot? Usually, semi-custom homes are built on developer-approved lots. Custom homes are better suited for unique or sloped properties.

How long does it take to build each type? Custom homes: 12–24 months. Semi-custom homes: 6–12 months.

Do I need an architect for a semi-custom home? Usually not. Semi-custom builders provide preset plans. For custom homes, you’ll need an architect or design-build firm.

What makes RJ Murphy Construction different? We specialize in high-end, fully custom homes built around your lifestyle, with deep experience in coastal construction, luxury design, and full-service project management.

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