This list shows the typical sequence of events in the planning and construction of a building. Your project might vary.

1. People
The owner(s) meet with realtor(s) &/or design professional(s) &/or contractor(s).

2. Place
The owner(s) buy land for their new building - or option the land for a time (less risk).

3. Plans - Preliminary
The owner(s) and design professional(s) develop preliminary plans. Approval might be required from a private "Architectural Control Committee" and/or the city government might require "Design Review" which can take months.

4. Price - Preliminary
The contractor(s) prepare a rough cost estimate from the preliminary plans.

5. Pre-Qualify
The owner(s) pre-qualify for financing with the bank.

6. Plans - Final
The owner(s) and design professional(s) develop the final plans.

7. Price - Final
The contractor(s) and sub-contractors use the final plans to determine final pricing.

8. Permits
The design professional(s) and / or contractor apply for building permits. Pricing and permits might occur simultaneously. Cities can take months to issue permits.

9. Promise
Permits are issued, or at least in progress. Price is locked in. The owner(s) and contractor sign the construction contract.

10. Production
The contractor orders materials & hires the sub-contractors (usually at least 12 subs).
The sub-contractors build the building.
The contractor pays the subs (monthly) with money drawn from the owner's bank.
The building inspectors monitor the project for code compliance.
At owner(s)' request, & for extra fee, the design professional(s) might also monitor the project.
The owner(s) should consult with the design professional(s) before signing any Change Order.
Change Orders authorize the contractor to deviate from the plans, and might involve changing the design, materials, schedule, price, or all four. Changes should be avoided, but if you must change something, be sure to document it with a written change order signed by all parties.

11. Pretty
A good color scheme doesn't cost any more than a bad one, but it makes a huge difference. The owner(s), perhaps with help from design professional(s), make final selections of colors, paint, light fixtures, flooring (carpet, vinyl, tile, etc.) and miscellaneous finish details.