From First Meeting to Move-In.
The benefits of a traditional builder supported by extensive civil- and commercial-grade teams and resources are many. Simply put, we build with rigor and communicate with care—every step of the way.
Phase #1 - The Plan Comes Together
We listen, plan, and guide early decisions that set your home up for success.
Preconstruction
For many homeowners, this is the most memorable phase. This is where we get to know you, your vision and your property. More than looking at plans, we’re listening for the details that haven’t made it into print—the things that will make your home seamlessly yours. Budgets and allowances are set that, along with timelines, keep your build on track. We stay ahead of the curve on permitting and finances. We’ll work closely with the bank of your choice and even help connect clients with the best banking options for their unique project.
Phase #2 - The Groundwork
Your site gets prepared with precision, and the structure takes shape.
Foundation
The Fulcrum difference is obvious before actual construction even begins. Drawing on the experience, resources and subcontractors of our civil division, we’re equipped for site preparation like no one else in the market—a critical benefit in our varied local landscape. It’s on this foundational experience that your actual foundation is built.
Framing
You’ve heard a time-honored house described as having good bones—that’s what we build. While our top-notch crews build the strong skeleton of your house, we walk you through, visualizing spaces and finalizing details. At the end of this phase, your house is a complete envelope, complete with exterior windows and doors.
Phase #3 - Behind the Walls
Essential systems go in, details are finalized, and the house is sealed.
Licensed Trades
During this phase, licensed and highly specialized tradesmen install your electrical, HVAC, plumbing and media/security systems. High-level planning, common sense and client walk-throughs see to it that everything is in just the right place for your comfort—before insulation goes in and walls are closed up, we’ve worked through each detail from outlet locations to shower head heights.
Closing Up
During this phase, interior walls and ceilings are constructed, finishing materials are delivered, and the A/C is on in order to help materials climatize prior to installation.
Phase #4 - Interiors + Outdoor Work
This is where craftsmanship shines—inside and out.
Cabinets, Counters, Appliances and Fixtures
Millwork and cabinetry—a specialty of Fulcrum Residential with our new millwork/cabinetry shop in Fairhope—are phased in during this stage, with counter-surface crews in and out for templating. Appliances and fixtures arrive and are expertly installed.
Paint, Plaster, Pretty
This is where it really comes together. Cleanliness and coverage are consistent, while material choices are unique to each home. Plaster, paper, murals—we work with top crews and artisans to make sure each surface is timeless not only in its beauty but also in protective coverage.
Lawn, Pool and Driveway
Big-picture scheduling is key for major elements surrounding the house. More complex outdoor projects will have already been underway, but this is the phase in which we dig into most jobs outside. Deliveries are less frequent during this phase, making it ideal for landscaping detail.
Phase #5 - Final Touches + Beyond
The final details come together—and so does your relationship with us.
Fixtures and Details
Cabinet hardware, specialty lighting, mirrors and towel bars—finishing touches come together during this stage. While we’re overseeing the completion of these details, we also are here to coordinate with clients’ staging or moving crews.
Final Inspection, Walkthrough and Punch List
The municipal building department’s final inspection brings the certificate of occupancy—but this isn’t the end. This is when we walk through the house with you, room by room, making sure each work item is complete and ready for your move-in. With your blessing, we’ll bring in our expert cleaning crew, wrap up any loose ends and hand you the keys.
Follow-Through
Three months after you move in, we’ll follow-up with you on the house—and again at six months, nine months and one year. Even when the home warranty is up, we’re still on call any time you need us. If we build your new home for you to move into with children, we want to be the people you call years later when it’s time to rethink the landscaping for that graduation party or wedding on the lawn.