FAQ

What makes an Ella Lee home different from other custom builds?

An Ella Lee home is more than a floor plan and finishes. It is a reflection of how you live, what you value, and how you want your home to feel every day. From the first conversation, we take time to understand your lifestyle, routines, family needs, and long-term plans. Every space is designed with intention, blending timeless architecture, refined materials, and thoughtful details that feel cohesive and livable. With design, engineering, and construction all in-house, your home is delivered as a unified vision, not a collection of disconnected ideas. The result is a curated living environment built with precision, integrity, and lasting quality.


Why choose Ella Lee Homes?

Because your home is one of the most important investments you will ever make—and you deserve complete confidence in the team behind it. Ella Lee Homes is built on three core principles: trust, transparency, and communication. Through our client portal, you can:

  • View your construction schedule
  • Monitor progress photos and videos
  • Review and approve selections
  • Track invoices and budgets in real time


This system is especially valuable for out-of-state clients and investors who rely on accurate, up-to-date information. Many of our clients return for multiple projects because they know they can access every document, update, and detail anytime, from anywhere. We work hard to earn your trust, and we work even harder to keep it.


What services does Ella Lee Homes offer?

Ella Lee Homes is a full-service design and build firm serving Arizona, offering:

  • Custom luxury home construction
  • Build on your lot services
  • High-end home additions and select whole-home renovations
  • Design and construction for select commercial projects

Our in-house team manages:

  • Architectural coordination
  • Structural and MEP engineering
  • Interior and exterior design
  • Detailed finish and fixtures specification
  • 3D renderings for key spaces
  • Permitting and approvals
  • Construction management and quality control


By keeping everything under one roof, we streamline communication, maintain quality, and deliver a smoother experience from concept to completion.

Can Ella Lee Homes build on my lot?

Yes. We specialize in building custom homes on your lot throughout Arizona. Whether you already own land or are still evaluating sites, we can:

  • Assess lot feasibility and site conditions
  • Review zoning, setbacks, and easements
  • Recommend design approaches that maximize views, privacy, and natural light
  • Ensure your vision aligns with the land, budget, and local requirements

How long does it take to build a custom home?

Most Ella Lee custom homes are completed within approximately 8 to 14 months, depending on:

  • Size and complexity
  • Level of customization
  • Permit timelines and jurisdictional approvals
  • Site conditions and structural requirements


You will receive a clear projected schedule during pre-construction, and we keep you informed at every milestone.


Do you work with real estate developers?

Yes. We partner with developers and investors across Arizona to deliver design-driven, efficient, high-end residential projects. We can assist with:

  • Spec home design and programming
  • Value engineering
  • Community standards and finish packages
  • Streamlined systems for multi-home developments


Our transparent processes and efficient trade relationships make us a strong long-term partner for portfolio growth.


How can Ella Lee Homes save you money?

We have intentionally built systems that protect both the quality of your home and the value of your investment. We:

  • Maintain long-term relationships with vetted vendors, suppliers, and manufacturers
  • Leverage consistent volume to secure premium materials at preferred pricing
  • Coordinate trades efficiently so work is completed correctly and on schedule
  • Use detailed selections and specifications to minimize change orders and surprises


These efficiencies allow us to deliver superior craftsmanship and materials while controlling costs—so you receive a higher-end result without unnecessary overspending.


I want to start a project but don’t know where to begin. What should I do?

Start by talking to your builder early. We recommend:

  1. Discovery Call Reach out to us to discuss your goals, budget range, timing, and whether you already have a lot or are still searching.
  2. Concept & Team Alignment Based on your needs, we help you determine whether you first need an architect, designer, or both—and we coordinate closely with them.
  3. Pre-Construction Planning We review concepts for buildability, structural efficiency, and material choices before final plans are stamped. This helps avoid costly redesigns and keeps the project aligned with your budget and expectations.


By involving Ella Lee Homes from the beginning, you gain practical, field-tested guidance that supports smarter design decisions and a smoother build.


What kind of contracts do you provide?

We primarily offer:

  • Fixed-price contracts for clearly defined scopes and specifications
  • Cost-plus contracts for highly customized or evolving projects requiring flexibility


Each contract outlines inclusions, allowances, change order procedures, and warranty terms in clear language so you always know how decisions affect cost and schedule.


How do I contact Ella Lee Homes to schedule an appointment?

We are available to connect at the time that works best for you. You can:

  • Call us to speak directly with our team
  • Email us with your project details and preferred time to talk
  • Submit an inquiry through our website to schedule a consultation

We also accommodate evening and select weekend appointments for clients with busy schedules.


What should I check before submitting a warranty request?

Before submitting a warranty claim, we recommend quickly checking the basics:

HVAC
  • Confirm breakers are on
  • Check the exterior disconnect (if accessible)
  • Ensure supply vents and returns are open and unobstructed
  • Verify the thermostat is powered and set correctly
Electrical
  • Check the main panel and reset any tripped breakers
  • Test and reset GFCI outlets (kitchens, baths, garages, exterior)
  • Confirm wall switches are fully engaged
Plumbing
  • Check under sinks and around fixtures for visible leaks
  • Verify shut-off valves at fixtures and main line are open (unless closing to stop an active leak)
Roof Leak
  • Confirm the water source is not from plumbing or HVAC
  • Note when and where the leak appears and during what weather conditions
  • For safety, avoid accessing the roof in wet or unsafe conditions

If the issue continues after these checks, submit a warranty request with photos and a detailed description.


How do I submit a warranty claim?

To request warranty service, email our warranty team at warranty@ellaleehomes.com with:

  • Your full name and property address
  • Best contact number(s) and preferred contact times
  • A clear description of the issue and exact location (e.g., “guest bath – cold water line leaking under sink”)
  • Photos or short videos, if available


Providing complete information allows us to respond faster and coordinate the correct trade partner on the first visit.


How do I register my appliances?

Each appliance includes a serial and model number label, typically found inside the door or on the side panel. We recommend:

  1. Recording all appliance brand, model, and serial numbers.
  2. Registering each appliance on the manufacturer’s website for full warranty coverage.
  3. Keeping your list handy for any future warranty or service requests.


If you need assistance, our appliance vendor or team can guide you through the registration process.


Is it better to email or call for warranty requests?

For warranty items, email is preferred. Email provides:

  • A written record of the issue
  • Photos and details in one place
  • Faster routing to the correct warranty coordinator


Phone calls are always welcome for urgent concerns, but submitting your request by email helps us streamline scheduling and resolution.