If you’re beginning your homebuilding journey, one of the first questions you’ll encounter is: Should I choose a production builder or a custom builder? While both options have their place in the housing market, they offer very different experiences when it comes to personalization, flexibility, and the overall building process.
Let’s break down what a production builder is and how Paragon Homes fits into (and stands apart from) this landscape.
What Is a Production Builder?
A production builder typically constructs multiple homes at once in large residential developments. These builders usually own the land and offer a selection of pre-designed floor plans, each with limited customization options. This streamlined process helps keep costs down and build times shorter—great for buyers who are looking for a quick move-in timeline and fewer decisions to make.
According to New Home Source, production builders are known for efficiency and consistency, offering homes at a more accessible price point by building the same plans repeatedly across their communities. However, this model usually limits buyers to a few design choices and doesn't allow much flexibility when it comes to altering floor plans or using your own lot.
How Paragon Homes Is Different
At first glance, you might think Paragon Homes operates like a production builder—after all, we do have beautiful new home communities like Deerfield Ridge and Parkside Meadows with available lots. But that’s where the similarities end.
Paragon Homes is a true custom builder, which means you’re never locked into a limited set of floor plans or cookie-cutter designs. While we offer a curated collection of custom home plans to help inspire your vision, every design can be tailored to your needs—or you can bring your own plans entirely. We build around you, not the other way around.
Even better? You’re not restricted to building in one of our communities. We also build on your land, something most production builders simply don’t offer.
Customization Without Compromise
One of the biggest differences between production and custom home builders is the level of involvement you have in the design and construction process. With Paragon Homes, you're not choosing from a short list of options—you’re an essential part of every major decision, from the layout and structural features to materials, finishes, and final touches.
This level of personalization not only ensures your home fits your lifestyle perfectly, but it also enhances your long-term satisfaction and adds real value to your investment.
Is Custom Building Right for You?
If you value creativity, flexibility, and the freedom to build your home your way—without being confined to a short list of builder-approved choices—a custom builder is the way to go. And if you're in the Pittsburgh area, Paragon Homes offers a rare balance of the best of both worlds: the professional guidance and community perks of a production builder, paired with the freedom and personalization of a true custom experience.
Want to Learn More?
Explore the difference between custom and production homes or browse our custom home plans to get inspired. When you're ready to take the next step, we're here to help you design and build a home that's unmistakably your own.