Thinking about building in McLean but not sure how long it really takes? You are not alone. Between Fairfax County permits, utility hookups, and dozens of selections, the calendar can get fuzzy fast. In this guide, you will see each phase from lot to keys, realistic timeline ranges for McLean, and what you can do to keep your move on track. Let’s dive in.
Timeline at a glance
- Lot purchase to permit submission: 1-3 months.
- Fairfax County permit review and approval: 4-12+ weeks depending on complexity and resubmittals.
- Construction to Certificate of Occupancy: 6-9 months for many spec homes; 9-15 months for most custom builds, with very complex projects taking longer.
- Total from contract to keys: 6-10 months for many spec homes with permits in place; 12-24 months for custom builds starting with design.
- Utility hookups can add 2-8 weeks depending on capacity and any needed extensions.
Phase 1: Lot selection and due diligence
Choosing the right lot sets the tone for your entire project. You will review zoning and setback rules, topography, and any wetlands. You will also confirm water, sewer, gas, and electric availability and check HOA or community restrictions.
Your action steps:
- Order a survey and request any existing site plans.
- Confirm water and sewer service and capacity with the local provider.
- Review covenants and any architectural review board rules.
- Validate floodplain or tree preservation requirements and consider a basic soils or geotechnical check if needed.
Phase 2: Contract, design, and selections
You will generally choose between a spec or production plan and a fully custom design. Your contract should spell out the base price, allowances for finishes, change order procedures, selection deadlines, and how the timeline is measured. Many buyers negotiate allowances and clear deadlines so selections do not slow the job.
What to confirm at signing:
- Deposit schedule and any termination or extension clauses.
- A realistic master schedule with milestone definitions.
- Which selections are due when, including structural options and kitchen and bath layouts.
Phase 3: Permitting and approvals in Fairfax County
Before breaking ground, your team will finalize plans, engineering, grading, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management. In Fairfax County, typical reviews include land disturbance, grading, E&S, stormwater, and building permits. Driveway access on a state road may also need a separate entrance permit.
What to expect on timing:
- Permit review often takes 4-12+ weeks, with longer timelines for complex stormwater designs or resubmittals.
- Utility service requests for water, sewer, electric, and gas follow separate processes.
Your role:
- Monitor submission dates and review milestones.
- Ask your builder to flag county comments quickly to avoid resubmittal delays.
Phase 4: Construction milestones in McLean
Site work and foundation
The site is cleared and protected, erosion controls are installed, and rough grading begins. Utilities are stubbed in as needed. Excavation and footings follow, then foundation walls or slab. County footing and foundation inspections are required before progressing.
Framing, envelope, and rough‑ins
The structure is framed, roofed, and dried in with windows and doors. Plumbing, HVAC ductwork, and electrical rough‑ins are installed. County framing and rough‑in inspections take place, and energy code verifications may apply under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.
Pre‑drywall walkthrough
Before drywall, you will verify outlet, switch, lighting, and plumbing locations. This is your chance to confirm changes that were agreed to on paper. Plan to attend and sign off to keep the schedule moving.
Finishes and systems
Drywall, paint, flooring, cabinetry, and trim go in. HVAC is commissioned, and appliances are installed. Final trade inspections often occur before final grading and occupancy.
Punch list and Certificate of Occupancy
You and your builder create a punch list of cosmetic and system items. The county issues a Certificate of Occupancy once final inspections pass. Expect a brief window for punch‑list completion even after the CO if your contract allows.
Financing basics and draw schedules
You will likely use a construction‑to‑permanent loan or a standalone construction loan followed by a permanent mortgage. Deposits to the builder vary, often in the 5-20% range depending on contract type and whether the lot is included. Draws typically align with milestones such as foundation, framing, rough‑ins, drywall, and final.
What to plan for:
- Lender draw inspections are separate from county inspections.
- Interest accrues on construction funds during the build, so delays can increase carrying costs.
- The final draw and conversion to permanent financing happen after final inspections, CO, and lender conditions like warranties and lien waivers.
Common delays in McLean and how to avoid them
- Permit backlogs and resubmittals. Ask for current county review estimates and build buffer time into your plan.
- Site constraints like steep slopes, rock, wetlands, or large trees. Budget time for mitigation and engineering.
- Utility upgrades or capacity checks. Start service requests early if main extensions or upgrades are possible.
- Supply and trade availability. Make selections on time and confirm lead times for windows, appliances, and HVAC.
- Weather. Winter and heavy rain can impact excavation, concrete, and exterior work.
- Buyer change orders. Late changes create rework and can trigger inspection or plan revisions.
- HOA or architectural board approvals. Secure approvals and align them with permit submissions.
- Failed inspections. Each re‑inspection can add 1-3 weeks, so plan for quality checks before calling for an inspection.
Move‑in planning and closing logistics
As completion nears, confirm your anticipated CO date and schedule your final walkthrough. Coordinate movers and utility transfers around the settlement date, with a buffer for punch‑list items. Title work and the final draw must be ready for closing, and your lender will require proof of final inspections and occupancy.
Utility timing tip:
- Water, sewer, electric, and gas hookups can add 2-8 weeks depending on capacity and any required extensions. Start early to prevent a late‑stage delay.
Buyer checklist and key dates
Before contract:
- Confirm utility availability and whether you are on public sewer or septic.
- Order a survey and review zoning and setbacks for the lot.
- Get pre‑approved for a construction loan and discuss the draw schedule.
- Ask for a sample master schedule and selection deadlines.
At contract:
- Verify inclusion lists, allowances, and any extension or liquidated damages clauses.
- Confirm who obtains permits and pays related fees.
- Set calendar dates for selections and walkthroughs.
Pre‑construction:
- Complete structural and major finish selections by the deadlines.
- Verify the permit submission date and the county’s current review estimate.
During construction:
- Schedule a pre‑drywall walkthrough and periodic site visits.
- Track county inspections, draw inspections, and expected milestone dates.
Near completion:
- Confirm anticipated CO and final walkthrough dates.
- Review warranties and the punch‑list process.
- Align closing, mover timing, and utility transfers.
Ready to plan your timeline and negotiate with confidence? For boutique guidance, builder‑savvy strategy, and a smooth path from lot to keys in McLean, connect with Maria Park.
FAQs
How long from signing to move‑in for McLean new builds?
- Many spec homes take 6-10 months if permits are in place, while custom homes commonly take 12-24 months, depending on design, permitting, and site factors.
Who obtains Fairfax County permits for a new home?
- Usually the builder or general contractor obtains permits, but you should confirm responsibilities and fees in the contract.
What inspections will I encounter during construction?
- Expect footing and foundation, framing and rough‑in, insulation and energy compliance, final electrical, plumbing and HVAC, and a final inspection for the Certificate of Occupancy.
What if permit review takes longer than expected?
- Many contracts include extension provisions for permitting; ask your builder about remedies, communication protocols, and updated milestone dates.
Can I live on the property while my new home is built?
- It is rare due to zoning, utility, safety, and financing constraints; confirm with local officials and your lender.
How are construction loan draws typically scheduled?
- Draws often align with milestones such as foundation, framing, rough‑ins, drywall, and final, with lender inspections before each release.
