Our Process

A hands-on, thoughtful approach to building on Long Island

At Chokdee Properties, we’re not a large-volume builder — and that’s intentional. We’re a husband-and-wife team who focus on quality, livability, and clear communication, taking on only one to two projects per year so each home gets the attention it deserves.

Most people find us after walking through one of our spec homes. They love the layout, finishes, and overall feel — and often reach out wanting something similar. From there, our process is collaborative, practical, and grounded in real construction experience.

1

Initial Conversation

Every project starts with a conversation. We talk about:

  • What you loved about our spec homes
  • Your goals for the home
  • Timeline expectations
  • Budget range and priorities

Understanding budget early helps everyone make smart, realistic decisions. Some homeowners choose to invest more in areas like countertops, flooring, or tile, while keeping other selections simple — we help guide those trade-offs so the home works well as a whole.

2

Plans, Architects & Early Review

If you already have an architect or designer, we’re happy to work directly with them. If not, we can help connect you with professionals we’ve worked alongside for years.

Before plans are submitted, we:

  • Review layouts for function and livability
  • Discuss potential construction challenges
  • Suggest adjustments based on real-world building experience
  • Coordinate changes directly with the architect

This early collaboration helps avoid costly revisions later and sets the project up for a smoother approval process.

3

Permits, Zoning & Town Approvals

We primarily build in the Town of Brookhaven, where we have extensive experience navigating permits, inspections, and approvals.

  • We personally handle permit submissions
  • We communicate directly with the building department
  • We clarify town comments by phone, email, or in person
  • We coordinate revisions with architects after town feedback

Plans are often sent back due to zoning-related issues. When zoning meetings or variances are required, we bring in a trusted expeditor to handle those meetings while we continue managing the overall process.

Our goal is to keep homeowners informed while taking the complexity off their plate.

4

Pre-Construction & Scheduling

Once approvals are in place, we finalize selections, confirm scope, and prepare for construction.

We build year-round, weather permitting. Certain phases — like concrete work — are influenced by temperature, but progress continues whenever possible. We plan schedules realistically and communicate openly when weather or inspections affect timing.

5

Construction & On-Site Oversight

We are on site several times a week, and during key phases — like framing — daily.

We work with the same trusted core trades on all of our projects. Being present on site allows us to:

  • Ensure work matches the plans
  • Catch issues early
  • Answer questions in real time
  • Coordinate solutions quickly if something doesn’t align

If something doesn’t look right, we stop and figure it out as a team — with the trades, architect, and homeowner if needed. This hands-on oversight is a big part of how we maintain quality.

6

Communication Throughout the Build

We communicate however you’re most comfortable:

  • Text
  • Email
  • Phone
  • In-person walkthroughs

Clients consistently tell us they appreciate how clearly we explain things and how accessible we are throughout the process. Delays happen. Questions come up. Our role is to keep you informed, calm, and confident as the project moves forward.

Spec Homes vs. Client Builds

To date, we’ve built spec homes, which allows us to control pacing and decisions. When working with clients directly, the process can move a bit more slowly as decisions are made together — and that’s okay. We don’t change how we work or rush choices.

Buyers may be able to make changes during a spec build once contracts are in place. Until then, construction continues according to plan to keep the project on track.

What Matters to Us

Above all, we focus on:

  • Quality construction
  • Livable, well-thought-out layouts
  • Clear communication
  • A calm, team-oriented experience

Building a home is a big undertaking. Our goal is to guide you through it with experience, transparency, and care — from plans to permits to move-in day.

Let’s Start the Conversation

If you’re interested in building a home inspired by our work, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Chokdee Properties