Get answers to questions about how to build a new custom home in North Carolina – with information for first time home buyers as well as experienced buyers.

Custom home builders from Travars Built Homes, Andrew and Phil, smiling in a newly finished luxury kitchen, testing the gold faucet over a large white quartz island, surrounded by white cabinetry and a professional stainless steel gas range.

THANK YOU, Chatham County!

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Travars Built Homes has been named Best Builder of Chatham County 2025 by Chatham Magazine readers!

This recognition means so much, coming from our home base in Chatham County – one of the nation’s fastest growing regions for all the reasons we love living here and building wonderful homes here.  We are honored by this reflection of our commitment to quality, craftsmanship, care and the homeowners we work closely with to create custom homes the way they want them.

Custom home builders from Travars Built Homes, Andrew and Phil, smiling in a newly finished luxury kitchen, testing the gold faucet over a large white quartz island, surrounded by white cabinetry and a professional stainless steel gas range.
Travars Builder Brothers Phil and Andrew check out details in prep for a final walkthrough before move-in.

Our hands on approach helps ensure everything is good to go — from initial conversation to turning on the taps.

Thank you for your trust and recognition of the incredible homes we create together across Chatham and beyond throughout the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area. 

Chatham Magazine Best of Chatham 2025 Readers' Favorite award badge, recognizing excellence in local custom home building by Travars Built Homes.

Learn more about what makes Travars Built Homes Best in Chatham.

See Also:

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!

Aerial drone view of a scenic open land plot and rolling wooded acreage, illustrating premium build-on-your-lot custom home site selections and rural building lots available in Central North Carolina.

Understanding Septic and Well Requirements When Building on Your Own Land in Orange County, NC

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If you’re planning to build a home on your own land in Orange County, North Carolina—whether it’s in Efland, Cedar Grove, Hillsborough, or one of the other rural areas—you’ll want to be familiar with the county’s septic and well requirements before breaking ground.

The process for getting septic and well approvals can be different from county to county, so it’s important to know what to expect where your land is located. At Travars Built Homes, we work across Chatham, Alamance, Durham, Orange, Wake, and other surrounding counties, so we understand how to help you navigate the requirements specific to your property.

Aerial drone view of a scenic open land plot and rolling wooded acreage, illustrating premium build-on-your-lot custom home site selections and rural building lots available in Central North Carolina.

Septic System Requirements in Orange County

If your property is not served by public sewer, you will need a septic system to handle wastewater from your home.

In Orange County, the Environmental Health Division manages septic system approvals. The process typically includes:

  1. Application – Submit an application for a new septic system or improvement permit.
  2. Site Evaluation – A soil scientist or county environmental health specialist will evaluate your land for factors like soil type, slope, drainage, and space for a repair area.
  3. System Design – The type and size of the septic system will be determined based on the soil conditions, number of bedrooms, and household water use.
  4. Permit Issuance – Once the site plan is approved, you’ll receive a permit that allows installation.
  5. Final Inspection – After installation, the county will inspect the system before it can be put into use.

Tip: Soil conditions can vary greatly across Orange County—especially in rural areas like Cedar Grove and Efland. Testing early in the planning process can save you time and help with house placement on the lot.

Rear exterior view of a custom home, detailing crisp white lap siding, a dark roof, black gutters, and a raised screened porch with wooden stairs leading down to a sloping yard, by Travars Built Homes.

Well Installation Requirements in Orange County

If your land does not have access to public water, you will need a private well for your home’s water supply.

In Orange County, well construction is also managed by the Environmental Health Division, and typically includes:

  1. Well Permit Application – Apply for a permit before any drilling begins.
  2. Setback Requirements – Wells must be located a minimum distance from septic systems, property lines, and potential sources of contamination.
  3. Water Testing – Once drilled, the water must be tested to ensure it meets safety standards for drinking water.
  4. Final Approval – The county must approve the well before it can be used.

Note: Setback and depth requirements can vary depending on your property’s location and soil type. Properties in rural Orange County often have plenty of space for both a well and septic, but site-specific conditions still determine placement.

Custom home building lot site sign placed on an available parcel by a Central NC custom home builder, showcasing build-on-your-lot opportunities along a paved residential street.

Building Across Multiple Counties

Travars Built Homes is based in central North Carolina and builds in Orange County as well as Chatham, Alamance, Durham, Wake, and other surrounding areas. Each county has its own permitting process, so working with a builder who is familiar with multiple jurisdictions can streamline your experience and help avoid delays.

Rear exterior view of a custom dark-sided home, showing a screened porch and an open outdoor entertainment deck built with natural pressure-treated wood, by Travars Built Homes.

How Travars Built Homes Can Help

When you work with us to build on your land:

  • We stay involved at every step—from permitting to inspections—to make sure your project stays on track.
  • We coordinate with county officials, soil scientists, and well drillers.
  • We help arrange site evaluations early, so there are no surprises later in the build.
  • We factor septic and well locations into your home design and placement.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

Regulations can change over time. Always confirm current septic and well requirements with Orange County Environmental Health before making land purchases or finalizing your home plans.

Have any questions about building your custom home on your own lot? Feel free to contact us!

Custom home utility spaces featuring a walk-in closet with built-in shelving, alongside a stylish mudroom drop zone highlighting dark gray paneled wainscoting and coat hooks, by Travars Built Homes.

Accent Colors: 5 Eye-Catching Design Features for Your Custom Home

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In custom home design, a strategically chosen accent color can transform a room, creating focal points that elevate the overall aesthetic. At Travars Built Homes, we work with clients to incorporate accent colors that highlight architectural features and add personality to each space. Whether you’re building on your lot or choosing from one of our custom plans, these design elements add unique touches that make every home feel tailored to your vision. Here are five examples of how accent colors are used to make specific design elements pop:

High Wainscoting and Drop Zone – Avonmore

The Avonmore plan features accent wainscoting in the master bedroom, drawing attention to a key wall while adding depth and texture. The drop zone also uses a similar treatment, creating a cohesive look that welcomes you home.

Explore the Avonmore tour

Custom home utility spaces featuring a walk-in closet with built-in shelving, alongside a stylish mudroom drop zone highlighting dark gray paneled wainscoting and coat hooks, by Travars Built Homes.

Dark Shiplap Fireplace – Amherst

In the Amherst plan, a dramatic dark shiplap accent spans from floor to vaulted ceiling at the fireplace bump out, anchoring the living area with a bold, contemporary feel.

See the Amherst tour

Open-concept custom living room featuring a vaulted ceiling with a modern fan, a floor-to-ceiling gray shiplap fireplace with a linear insert, and rich wood-look flooring, by Travars Built Homes.

Coffered Ceiling – Teesdale

The Teesdale plan features a dark coffer ceiling in the two-story foyer, adding striking contrast against lighter walls and drawing the eye upward to showcase the architectural detailing.

View the Teesdale tour

Upstairs loft area in a custom home featuring plush carpeting, a striking black coffered ceiling with a modern light fixture, and a tall built-in white bookshelf, by Travars Built Homes.

Barn Door in Accent Color – Noni Cottage

In the Noni Cottage, a barn door painted in an accent color serves as a functional design statement, seamlessly blending rustic charm with modern style.

Take a look at the Noni Cottage tour

Beautiful custom home office or flex room highlighting a light blue sliding barn door, a deep tray ceiling with a modern fan, warm hardwood floors, and glass double doors, designed by Travars Built Homes.

Bold Red Front Door – Gregory

Nothing says “welcome home” like a bold red front door. The Gregory plan uses this timeless accent to make a lasting first impression, creating a classic focal point that stands out against a neutral exterior.

Visit the Gregory tour

Welcoming front entryway featuring a premium flagstone porch floor, dark timber support columns, stone veneer wainscoting accents, and a bold red front door, built by Travars Built Homes.

Why Accent Colors Matter in Custom Home Design

Choosing the right accent color can enhance architectural features, define spaces, and convey a specific mood or style. Whether it’s a bold front door, a shiplap wall, or an accent ceiling, these design elements make a custom home feel unique and thoughtfully curated. And when you’re building on your lot with Travars Built Homes, every detail can be tailored to your preferences — from accent walls to exterior finishes.

Ready to discuss how accent colors can elevate your custom home design? Explore our Build On Your Lot page for more options.

Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!

Bright custom home office featuring warm hardwood floors, an elegant geometric light fixture, white wainscoting, and a wall of windows, accessed via white double glass-paned doors, built by Travars Built Homes.

Studio Spaces and Family Suites: Versatile Living | On Your Lot Builder

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When you’re building a custom home on your lot in Chatham, Lee, Alamance, or surrounding counties, having a dedicated space that adapts to your lifestyle can make all the difference. At Travars Built Homes, we build custom floor plans with Studio Spaces and Family Suites that provide privacy, flexibility, and functionality — perfect for the way you live, work, and relax.

Bright custom home office featuring warm hardwood floors, an elegant geometric light fixture, white wainscoting, and a wall of windows, accessed via white double glass-paned doors, built by Travars Built Homes.

Why Include a Studio Space or Family Suite?

  • Privacy and Separation: A Studio Space or Family Suite located away from main living areas can be the ideal setting for a home office, guest quarters, or creative workspace.
  • Multi-Use Flexibility: Whether it’s a playroom for the kids, a home gym, or a personal retreat, these rooms can evolve as your needs change.
  • Resale Value: Adding a well-designed Family Suite or Studio Space increases your home’s appeal, giving future buyers versatile options for guests, in-laws, or rental income.
Bright custom flex space or breakfast room showcasing a sliding white barn door, hardwood floors, a built-in desk with blue cabinets, and a classic chandelier, designed by Travars Built Homes.

Featured Floor Plans with Studio Spaces and Family Suites

Explore these custom home plans that prioritize separation and multi-purpose living:

  • Harper’s Ferry: This modern farmhouse design includes a spacious Studio Space on the upper level, ideal for a nanny suite, craft room, or home theater.
  • Settlers Ridge: With its separate rear stairway entry, the upper-level Family Suite provides an expansive, private area for guests, teens, or in-laws — complete with a covered porch for added living space.
  • Seneca Falls: A breezeway connects the detached garage to the main home, leading to a thoughtfully designed Studio Space. Use it as a home office, art studio, or private guest retreat.
This modern farmhouse design includes a spacious Studio Space on the upper level, ideal for a nanny suite, craft room, or home theater

Harper’s Ferry

With its separate rear stairway entry, the upper-level Family Suite provides an expansive, private area for guests, teens, or in-laws — complete with a covered porch for added living space.

Settlers Ridge

A breezeway connects the detached garage to the main home, leading to a thoughtfully designed Studio Space. Use it as a home office, art studio, or private guest retreat.

Seneca Falls

Designing for Your Lot in NC

Travars Built Homes specializes in crafting custom floor plans that maximize space, comfort, and functionality. Whether you’re building in Pittsboro, Sanford, Siler City, or beyond, we’ll help you design a home with Studio Spaces and Family Suites tailored to your lifestyle. Contact us to start creating a home that works for you — and every way you want to live.

Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!

*Renderings copyright Frank Betz

Stunning custom home exterior featuring a beautiful brick facade, dark gray vertical board-and-batten siding in the gables, a dark roof, and striking black window frames, designed by Travars Built Homes.

Popular Brick Selections for Custom Homes

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At Travars Built Homes, every detail matters. That’s why we guide our homeowners through thoughtful selections — like brick — that shape the timeless beauty and character of their new home.
Brick is more than just a material choice. It’s a statement of style, durability, and classic charm, crafted to complement the design vision you’re building with us.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular brick selections our homeowners have chosen, featured in recent Travars Built Homes builds across central North Carolina:

1. Oyster Bay – Subtle, Coastal Elegance

For those drawn to softer neutrals, Oyster Bay brick is a standout choice. In our Teesdale home, it provides a breezy, coastal-inspired look with gentle variations of white and gray.

This muted, sandy palette pairs easily with both warm and cool color schemes, offering flexibility for shutters, trim, and accents — perfect for homeowners who appreciate understated sophistication.

Stunning custom home exterior featuring a beautiful brick facade, dark gray vertical board-and-batten siding in the gables, a dark roof, and striking black window frames, designed by Travars Built Homes.

2. Washed White – Bright and Timeless

The East Haven home brings a fresh take on classic white brick. The soft, washed finish offers a welcoming brightness, pairing beautifully with the home’s traditional lines and modern touches.

Washed White brick creates a relaxed, timeless feel that looks equally stunning in farmhouse, cottage, and transitional home styles — a versatile favorite among custom homebuyers.

Luxury custom home exterior showcasing a full white-painted brick facade, multiple steep roof gables with dark shingles, a covered front porch, and black double front doors, built by Travars Built Homes.

3. Santa Fe – Warm and Richly Layered

The Amherst home showcases the earthy richness of Santa Fe brick. With its warm reds,  soft paprika, sand and dark gray accents, Santa Fe creates a welcoming, grounded presence.

This can be ideal for homeowners who want to highlight the connection between their home and its natural surroundings.  This brick style adds depth, character, and a touch of traditional Southern charm.

Exterior view of a custom modern farmhouse featuring white board-and-batten siding, a wide covered front porch with a dark metal roof, and contrasting black window frames, by Travars Built Homes.

4. Evelyn Bay – Soft Sophistication

At the Holly Fern home, Evelyn Bay brick blends creamy whites and gentle grays into a soft, sophisticated exterior. It offers a slightly more structured and polished finish compared to some rustic styles, while still maintaining a handcrafted, approachable feel.

This choice has become increasingly popular for homeowners seeking a fresh, transitional look that stands the test of time.

Beautiful custom home exterior featuring a textured brick facade, prominent gables with arched windows, a dark roof, and a covered front porch with white columns, by Travars Built Homes.

Crafting a Home That’s Uniquely Yours

When you build with Travars Built Homes, every selection — from your brick to your layout — is guided by personal conversations and expert advice.

Whether you’re drawn to bright and airy whites, natural earth tones, or coastal-inspired blends, we’ll walk you through the options that fit your vision and bring lasting beauty to your home.

Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!

Rear exterior view of a custom home showcasing sage green siding, an elevated screened-in porch with natural wood railings, and a sloped backyard enclosed by a black metal fence, by Travars Built Homes.

What Can Impact Where You Can Place Your Home on Land in Alamance County, NC?

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Alamance County is one of the beautiful areas where Travars Built Homes builds custom homes on your land—and one of a dozen counties across central North Carolina where we help families bring their vision to life. If you’re considering building in Alamance, it’s important to understand that more than just personal preference determines where you can place your home on your lot.

Setbacks, septic systems, wells, easements, and environmental features all play a role in shaping your homesite plan. Here’s what to know—and how we help you navigate the process.

1. Setbacks: 

Setbacks are the minimum required distances between your home and the edges of your lot. These requirements help maintain safety, privacy, and uniformity across neighborhoods.

In most parts of Alamance County, typical minimum setbacks are:

  • 35–50 feet from the front property line
  • 15–25 feet from the sides
  • 25–50 feet from the rear

The specific setback distances depend on your zoning designation and whether your property is located within a municipality, an ETJ (Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction), or a rural area.

Why it matters: Setbacks define your home’s “buildable area.” 

Rear exterior view of a custom home showcasing sage green siding, an elevated screened-in porch with natural wood railings, and a sloped backyard enclosed by a black metal fence, by Travars Built Homes.

2. Septic System: 

If your property doesn’t connect to a municipal sewer system, you’ll need to install a septic system. Alamance County’s Environmental Health Department will determine the best location based on:

  • A professional soil evaluation
  • The number of bedrooms in your home
  • Required separation from wells, property lines, and structures
  • Reserved space for a repair area

Why it matters: You must keep the designated area for a septic system clear—not just during construction, but long term—which means you can’t place patios, sheds, pools, or heavy driveways over it.

3. Wells: 

If your home requires a private well, it must also meet specific placement requirements. In Alamance County, your well must be:

  • At least 100 feet away from septic fields
  • Accessible for future maintenance

Why it matters: The well location often needs to be planned in tandem with the septic layout—and both must be situated with enough distance from your home and each other to comply with regulations.

4. Easements: 

Easements are areas on your property that someone else has a legal right to use. These are most commonly used for:

  • Driveways or access roads to neighboring properties
  • Underground utility lines
  • Drainage or stormwater systems

Why it matters: You typically cannot build on or obstruct an easement. 

Curved paved road with concrete curbs and sidewalks running through a quiet, heavily wooded custom home community subdivision in Pittsboro, NC.

5. Natural Features and Buffers

Alamance County features rolling countryside, creeks, and wooded areas—but these features can also bring building restrictions.

Depending on your land, you may encounter:

  • Stream buffers, which restrict development near natural waterways
  • Floodplain zones, where development is limited or prohibited

Why it matters: While these features add beauty to your land, they may limit where you can place your home—or require you to take additional steps during site planning and permitting.

A dense, foggy view of protected green marshland, highlighting critical environmental wetlands lot inspections required during rural site preparation.

Building in Alamance County? Travars Built Can Help.

Building on your own land comes with a lot of questions—and we’re here to help answer them. Once we understand what kind of home you’d like to build, Travars Built Homes offers an in-depth, on-site consultation to evaluate how your home can be placed for optimal layout, orientation, and use of your land’s natural features. We’ll walk your homesite with you and provide expert insight into everything from potential driveway locations to how slope can impact foundation heights.

Contact us today to schedule your homesite consultation.

Travars Built Homes has a renowned reputation across central North Carolina for exceptional quality, integrity, and service. We build on your land extending into 12 counties, including Chatham, Wake, Orange, Lee, Alamance, and surrounding areas.

Disclaimer: Requirements for well, septic, setbacks, easements, and environmental features can vary depending on your specific property and local regulations. Travars Built Homes provides guidance throughout this process, but cannot guarantee outcomes related to soil evaluations, permits, or regulatory approvals.

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!

Custom home building lot site sign placed on an available parcel by a Central NC custom home builder, showcasing build-on-your-lot opportunities along a paved residential street.

What Homebuyers Really Want: Trends in Home Size

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As custom home builders serving Pittsboro and the surrounding areas of Chatham County, Travars Built Homes pays close attention to what today’s homebuyers value most. One of the key questions we help our clients answer is: How much space do you really want in your new home?

The “What Home Buyers Really Want 2024 Edition” study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals some insightful shifts in buyer preferences when it comes to home size.

Here’s a closer look at what homebuyers say they currently have—and what they actually want:

Bar chart displaying National Association of Home Builders data on the square footage of finished area homebuyers currently have versus what they would like to have in a new custom home.

What These Trends Tell Us

The data reflects a variety of buyer preferences—while many homeowners do want more space than they currently have, larger homes are not the goal for everyone.

Larger homes (3,000+ sq ft) still appeal to some, especially those looking for multigenerational layouts or high-end features. However, just 14% of buyers said they want a home over 3,000 sq ft—and only 6% want more than 4,000 sq ft—even in the context of “would like to have.”

Smaller homes (<1,600 sq ft) are desirable for 26% of buyers, potentially for its affordability and simplicity.

Mid-size homes (1,600 – 2,499 sq ft) represent the sweet spot for the majority of buyers. Nearly 70% of homebuyers want homes under 2,500 sq ft, indicating that spaciousness doesn’t have to mean oversized.

White board and batten farmhouse exterior with a covered front porch, brick foundation, black metal porch railings, double front doors, wide front steps, green lawn, and tall trees behind the home.

Understanding the Shift in Preferences

According to the NAHB:

“In the last 20 years, there has been a clear shift downward in the amount of space buyers want. NAHB studies from 2003 to 2012 reveal that the typical buyer during this period wanted a home with at least 2,200 sq ft of finished area. Starting in 2015, however, buyers’ preferences shifted toward smaller homes. That year, and then again in 2018, 2020, and 2023, the typical buyer decided a home with around 2,000 to 2,075 sq ft was enough.”

This downward trend may reflect the rising cost of construction, a desire to save on heating and cooling costs, and changing lifestyle priorities such as simplified living or lower maintenance and upkeep responsibilities.

Travars Built offers homes in each of these size ranges. Explore the full range of plans here.

What This Means for Homebuilding in Pittsboro and Chatham County

At Travars Built Homes, our portfolio includes a wide range of home sizes, with a strong emphasis on flexible layouts, custom options, and efficient design strategies. This attention to layout becomes especially meaningful because buyers can customize floorplans to meet their specific needs, rather than being reliant on a small set of predesigned plans.

We also see rising interest in:

Bright custom flex space or breakfast room showcasing a sliding white barn door, hardwood floors, a built-in desk with blue cabinets, and a classic chandelier, designed by Travars Built Homes.

Explore Your Options

Whether you’re looking to right-size your home or build with room to grow, Travars Built Homes can help you create a space that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget.

Take a look at our available floor plans and let us know how we can bring your vision to life.

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!

Open concept custom living room showing a seamless transition from the entryway, featuring warm hardwood floors, an unfinished built-in entertainment center, and a view into the bright white kitchen, by Travars Built Homes.

Built-In Bookcases: Custom Home Features with Character in Pittsboro and Chatham County, NC

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If you’re building a custom home in Pittsboro or Chatham County, NC, built-in bookcases are a timeless feature that adds charm, storage, and functionality to your living space. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy reading nook, a refined home office, or a living room focal point, Travars Built Homes can incorporate bookcases tailored to your style and space.

We specialize in custom home design that brings your vision to life—including standout built-in bookcases that combine craftsmanship with creativity. Here are a few unique examples from homes we’ve built across central North Carolina:

Open concept custom living room showing a seamless transition from the entryway, featuring warm hardwood floors, an unfinished built-in entertainment center, and a view into the bright white kitchen, by Travars Built Homes.

Danbury Springs – Library Ladder, Custom Dividers, and Base Cabinets

This custom home in Chatham County features one of our most iconic bookcase installations. The built-in wall includes:

  • A rolling library ladder for both function and flair
  • Staggered-width dividers for varied shelf styling
  • Cabinetry below the shelving to store games, electronics, or office supplies

This is the perfect spot for a library, office, or nook, being both elegantly designed and highly functional.

Explore Danbury Springs

Expansive custom living room showcasing warm hardwood floors and a massive built-in white entertainment center featuring multiple shelving cubbies and a rolling wooden library ladder, designed by Travars Built Homes.

Teesdale – Extra-Height Bookcases and Ladder Access

Located near Pittsboro, NC, the Teesdale plan takes bookcase design to new heights—literally. Its full-height bookcases rise to the ceiling, complete with a sliding ladder that gives this room the feel of an upscale bookshop or classic study.

This home demonstrates how custom bookcases can frame a room and define its purpose with stunning architectural detail.

Explore Teesdale

Bright custom living room highlighting dark hardwood floors, a classic brick fireplace with a dark wood surround, tall white built-in bookshelves, and an open wood staircase leading upstairs, designed by Travars Built Homes.

Longview – Classic Built-Ins Flanking a Fireplace

Nothing beats the traditional warmth of built-in bookcases on both sides of a fireplace. In the Longview plan, custom shelving creates balance, storage, and beauty in the main living area. The bookcases offer the perfect place to showcase books, family heirlooms, or seasonal décor—all while keeping the focus on the cozy hearth.

If you’re looking for a classic layout in your Chatham County new home, this is a favorite.

Explore Longview

Custom living room featuring a stunning floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace with a rustic mantel, flanked by white built-in bookshelves, complete with warm hardwood floors and expansive windows, by Travars Built Homes.

Southern Farmhouse – Hidden Bookcase Behind Barn Doors

This one’s for the modern farmhouse lovers: A bookcase hidden behind barn doors gives the Southern Farmhouse plan a touch of surprise and flexibility. Whether closed for a sleek wall treatment or opened to reveal books and keepsakes, it’s a brilliant mix of style and practicality.

Perfect for homes that blend contemporary farmhouse aesthetics with clever design features.

Explore Southern Farmhouse

Custom formal room featuring a large dark metal wagon wheel chandelier, oak floors, light grey walls, and white sliding barn doors that open to reveal built-in bookshelves, built by Travars Built Homes.

Why Built-In Bookcases Are a Smart Choice for Your Custom Home

Homebuyers across Chatham County, especially in communities like Pittsboro, Siler City, and Moncure, are embracing built-ins as a way to:

  • Maximize space with integrated storage
  • Create architectural interest in key rooms
  • Personalize your home with functional features that match your lifestyle

Whether you’re a collector of books, a display enthusiast, or just love a polished, finished look, custom bookcases are one of the most-loved upgrades among Travars Built Homes clients.

Ready to Build Your Custom Home in Chatham County?

Travars Built Homes builds on your lot in Pittsboro, Chatham County, and throughout 12 counties in central North Carolina. Our team works with you every step of the way—from designing custom layouts to selecting finishes like cabinetry, shelving, and storage that reflect your lifestyle.

Contact us today to get started on your dream home—or browse our many floor plans. 

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!

Custom home building lot site sign placed on an available parcel by a Central NC custom home builder, showcasing build-on-your-lot opportunities along a paved residential street.

Understanding Septic and Well Requirements When Building on Your Own Land in Chatham County, NC

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Building a custom home on your own land in Chatham County, North Carolina offers incredible freedom and flexibility—but it also comes with important site development steps, especially if your land does not have access to public water or sewer. This means you’ll need to plan for a private septic system and well, which require proper permitting through the county.

At Travars Built Homes, we help guide you through this process—unlike some home builders who leave it up to the homeowner to figure it out alone.

Custom home building lot site sign placed on an available parcel by a Central NC custom home builder, showcasing build-on-your-lot opportunities along a paved residential street.

Septic System Requirements in Chatham County

When public sewer isn’t available, an on-site septic system must be permitted and approved. In Chatham County, there are three primary permitting options:

1. Public Permitting Option

Through the Chatham County Environmental Health Division, this process involves submitting an application, fee, and site plan. A county inspector visits the site to determine soil and layout suitability. If the application is approved, an Improvement Permit (valid for five years) is issued. The applicant must obtain a Construction Authorization before beginning installation.

2. Private Permitting Option

You can also work with a licensed engineer or Authorized On-Site Wastewater Evaluator (AOWE) to design your system. This option can streamline timelines and provide design flexibility, while still meeting state regulations.

3. Hybrid Permitting Option

This approach combines public oversight with a private soil consultant and can offer a great fit for certain site conditions.

Beautiful custom modern southern farmhouse exterior displaying crisp white siding, prominent multi-pane windows, brick columns, a green lawn, and a matching detached garage, designed by Travars Built Homes.

Well Installation Requirements in Chatham County

If there’s no public water access, a private well must be drilled and permitted. Chatham County requires:

  • A completed application and fee submitted to Environmental Health
  • Site evaluation to ensure setbacks from buildings, septic systems, and potential contaminants
  • Post-installation testing to ensure safe, potable water

Typical setback requirements include:

  • 100 feet from potential contamination sources
  • 50 feet from ponds, lakes, and surface water
  • 100 feet from potential contamination sources
  • 50 feet from septic systems
  • 25 feet from structures with termite treatment
Aerial drone perspective of a custom home build detailing the complex dark roofline, a winding gravel driveway, and the expansive surrounding forest, by Travars Built Homes.

We Work Across 12 Central North Carolina Counties

While these requirements apply to Chatham County, Travars Built Homes builds on your lot across a 12-county area in central North Carolina. From Orange to Johnston, Alamance to Lee—and everywhere in between—we’re familiar with the permitting processes, health department regulations, and land development practices across the region.

Whether your property is in Chatham or beyond, we bring deep experience and local insight to ensure your custom home journey is smooth and informed.

Rear exterior view of a custom dark-sided home, showing a screened porch and an open outdoor entertainment deck built with natural pressure-treated wood, by Travars Built Homes.

Travars Built Homes Supports You Through the Entire Process

From day one, we work alongside you to coordinate permitting, schedule evaluations, and consult with licensed soil scientists and engineers. Our goal is to remove guesswork and make sure your land is fully prepped and permitted for construction—so your home can move forward with confidence.

We don’t leave you on your own. We help with it all.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

Local health department requirements for septic and well systems can change based on county and state updates. This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your builder and local authorities for the most current information for your specific property and location.

Have any questions about building your custom home on your own lot? Feel free to contact us!

Custom kitchen design featuring sophisticated dark gray shaker cabinets, a built-in wine rack, a matching center island with a white sink, and stylish geometric black pendant lights, crafted by Travars Built Homes.

Color Trends – Alabaster and the Seas – Chatham County Custom Homes

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At Travars Built Homes, your trusted Chatham County, NC custom home builder, we know that every detail matters when creating a space that feels like home. The Longview home showcases a thoughtfully curated color palette, blending timeless neutrals and bold accents to create a cohesive, elegant design.

Explore how these Sherwin-Williams colors work together to elevate the design of this stunning custom home.

Custom modern farmhouse exterior featuring pristine white vertical board-and-batten siding, a dark gray shingle roof, black-framed windows, and a brick foundation, built by Travars Built Homes.

The Kitchen: A Stylish, Neutral Foundation

  • Cabinetry: Eudora Cabinets
  • Color: Thunder Painted Finish
  • Countertops: Pitaya White Granite
  • Backsplash: White Subway Tile
  • Light Fixtures: Black

The kitchen features Eudora cabinets with a Thunder painted finish and a versatile gray hue that gives perfect balance to the room. Complementing the cabinetry are stunning Pitaya White granite countertops, which bring a natural element of sophistication. The white subway tile backsplash provides a clean and classic backdrop that enhances the overall design. Finally, bold black light fixtures add contrast and tie together the contemporary style of this central gathering space.

Custom kitchen design featuring sophisticated dark gray shaker cabinets, a built-in wine rack, a matching center island with a white sink, and stylish geometric black pendant lights, crafted by Travars Built Homes.

Bathrooms and Laundry Room: Clean and Bright

  • Color: Alabaster Painted Finish
  • Countertops (Master Bath): Pitaya White Granite

Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) brightens the bathrooms and laundry room, bringing a sense of cleanliness and tranquility. In the master bathroom, the countertops are also Pitaya White granite, offering seamless and elegant flow. This creamy white paint pairs effortlessly with the countertops and other design elements, making these spaces functional yet stylish.

Luxury custom master bathroom showcasing a freestanding white soaking tub wrapped in white subway tile, a large glass-enclosed walk-in shower, black fixtures, and marble-look tile flooring, built by Travars Built Homes.

Main Living Areas: Timeless Neutral Walls

  • Main Wall Color: Alabaster SW 7008

The main walls throughout the Longview home continue the theme of warmth and elegance with Alabaster. This classic, soft white sets the stage for a harmonious flow between rooms while allowing accent colors and architectural details to stand out.

Custom living room featuring a stunning floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace with a rustic mantel, flanked by white built-in bookshelves, complete with warm hardwood floors and expansive windows, by Travars Built Homes.

Accent Color 1: Tranquil Elegance in the Master Bedroom

  • Color: Sea Salt SW 6204

The master bedroom has an accent wall painted in Sea Salt (SW 6204), a serene blend of soft green and blue. This soothing hue transforms the space into a retreat-like oasis, creating a peaceful environment for relaxation.

Spacious custom master bedroom showcasing plush light carpeting, an elegant tray ceiling with a modern black fan, light gray walls, and multiple large windows offering forest views, built by Travars Built Homes.

Accent Color 2: Bold Sophistication in the Bonus Room

  • Color: Sea Serpent SW 7615

For a striking contrast, Bedroom 4 (Bonus Room) features Sea Serpent (SW 7615), a rich navy blue with dramatic depth. This bold choice adds character and sophistication, making the room feel both stylish and cozy.

Expansive custom home bonus room over the garage showcasing deep navy blue walls, a vaulted ceiling with a black fan, and plush light carpeting, crafted by Travars Built Homes.

Polished Details: Trim and Finishing Touches

  • Trim Color: Pure White SW 7005

The trim throughout the Longview home is painted in Sherwin-Williams Pure White (SW 7005), offering a crisp, clean finish that highlights every architectural detail. This bright, neutral white ties the entire color palette together, ensuring a cohesive and polished look.

Open concept custom home interior looking from a kitchen with a gray island and quartz countertops into a spacious living area featuring a stone fireplace and built-in bookshelves, by Travars Built Homes.

Why This Color Palette Works

The Longview home’s carefully curated palette combines soft neutrals and bold accents to create spaces that feel both modern and timeless. From the calming tones of Sea Salt in the master bedroom to the dramatic depth of Sea Serpent in the bonus room, these colors bring personality and balance to every corner of the home. The Pitaya White granite countertops and black light fixtures add just the right touch of sophistication and contrast.

By incorporating these Sherwin-Williams colors into your custom home, you can create a space that is uniquely yours—perfectly blending functionality and beauty. Explore more inspiration and design tips on our website, or reach out to us for a personalized consultation.

Design Your New Home with Travars Built Homes

Whether you’re drawn to timeless neutrals, bold accent colors, or a mix of both, Travars Built Homes can bring your vision to life. As the premier custom home builder in Chatham County, NC, we specialize in creating homes that reflect your personal style and the latest trends in design.

Looking to build or design a custom home in Pittsboro, Siler City, or surrounding areas? Let Travars Built Homes be your guide. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options.

Have any Questions? Get in Touch Today!