Custom Home vs. Spec Home: What’s the Difference?

siteROOST Editor • October 30, 2025

When you’re ready to invest in your dream home, one of the first choices you’ll face is whether to build a custom home or buy a spec home. While both can be beautiful and functional, the experience, flexibility, and long-term value are very different—especially here in State College, PA, where craftsmanship and community matter.



As an Amish custom home builder, we’re often asked what makes a custom home unique and why so many homeowners choose this path. Let’s explore the key differences between custom homes and spec homes—and why a true custom build might be the right choice for your family.


Custom Amish built home in State College, PA. Open concept. Kitchen Farmhouse style

What's Going on in the State College Housing Market?

Here are a few key trends:

  • The current median listing home price in State College is around $449,500, up about 5.5% year-over-year. 
  • Homes are selling, but the inventory is fairly tight. New listings are lagging, and many homes go pending relatively quickly.
  • In some neighborhoods (for example State College South) prices have jumped significantly. 
  • The home‐value index continues to rise in the region. 

 

So high prices, rising steadily, and relatively low supply. All of those push buyers toward either paying premium for what’s available, or considering alternatives such as building your custom dream home.


Custom home builder home State College, PA. Master bath with

What is a Spec Home?

A spec home (short for “speculative home”) is built by a contractor or developer before there’s a buyer. The builder “speculates” that someone will want to purchase the finished home once it’s complete.


Spec homes often follow popular floor plans, use cost-effective materials, and appeal to a broad audience. Because they’re designed for the general market, they typically feature:

  • Pre-selected layouts and finishes
  • Standardized materials
  • Faster move-in timelines
  • Fixed pricing


For many buyers, this is an attractive option—especially for those who want a move-in-ready home without the decision-making that comes with custom design. However, spec homes come with trade-offs. You’ll have limited control over the floor plan, design, and materials. What you see is what you get.


What is a Custom Home?

A custom home is built entirely around you. From the layout to the finishes, every element is chosen to reflect your lifestyle, priorities, and vision. At Triple E Homes, our expect Amish builders work closely with homeowners to design a home from the ground up. You choose the lot, the floor plan, the materials, and every detail—from the trim and cabinetry to the type of wood used for your floors.


A true custom home offers:

  • Complete design flexibility – You control the layout, features, and finishes.
  • Superior craftsmanship – Every component is built with intention and care.
  • Energy efficiency and quality materials – Custom builds allow you to choose higher-quality, longer-lasting materials.
  • Personal expression – Your home tells your story, not the builder’s.


For those who appreciate Amish craftsmanship, this process ensures the home reflects both your personal taste and time-honored building traditions—solid woodwork, precise joinery, and unmatched attention to detail.


Custom modern design home in State College, PA. Farmhouse style. 
Amish built home

Why Homeowners in State College Choose Custom Homes

State College is a unique blend of small-town warmth and modern living. Many families here choose custom Amish-built homes because they value quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship that lasts for generations.


Amish builders are known for their hands-on approach, precision woodworking, and commitment to integrity—qualities that stand out in a world of mass-produced construction. Each home is built as if it were our own, with a focus on solid structure, natural materials, and timeless design.

When you choose to build custom, you’re not just building a house—you’re creating a legacy.


The Custom Home Process:  What to Expect

  1. Initial Consultation – We discuss your goals, budget, and vision.
  2. Design Phase – You’ll work with a designer or bring your own plans.
  3. Site Preparation – We evaluate your lot and prepare the land.
  4. Construction – Amish craftsmen bring your plans to life with expert precision.
  5. Finishing Touches & Move-In – Every detail is inspected and perfected.


Throughout the process, you’ll have open communication with your builder—no surprises, no shortcuts.


Build Your Dream Home in State College

If you’re ready to create a home that’s truly yours—from foundation to finish—our team is here to help. Triple E Homes is your expert custom home builder, serving State College and surrounding areas, we bring decades of experience, integrity, and craftsmanship to every project.



Let’s start planning your dream home today.


Contact us to schedule a consultation or learn more about our building process.


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