Planning on building the house of your dreams? There’s a lot to consider.
Building your home from the ground up can be extremely rewarding in the end, but it can also be a long and expensive process, bringing up frustrations and fears in just about every homeowner.
Here are some simple tips to avoid getting caught up in the chaos of it all.
Choose the Right Builder
Hiring the right people is by far the most important thing to think about. Make sure you hire a team that will understand your specific needs – such as hiring an acreage custom home builder team if you want to live on an acreage.
While cost saving is an important part of the planning process, it’s worth more to know you’re leaving your home in the hands of professionals you can trust. If possible, rely on recommendations from people you trust beyond simple CVs. Ask to see examples of past projects and make sure you’re comfortable with your contractor’s work ethic and personality.
Plan Your Budget Carefully
Doing your sums is a must. Before you start any building job, whether it’s a new build, a remodel, or some simple additions, make sure you have the funds to do so – plus some extra in case plans need to change.
Plan your budget by talking to your building team about your plans, looking at recent home-building data, and considering any specific fittings and finishings you’re interested in. Consider every aspect of the project and account for what you can realistically afford versus your ideal outcome.
Focus on Functionality and Design
You want your design to make sense for your personal style and for your home to be functional. Whether you have a gigantic four-poster bed you want to make space for or you’re dreaming of the perfect kitchen island, make sure your architectural plans account for them.
Consider the dimensions of your walls, the size and width of doorways, and the structural implications of your design choices.
Consider Sustainability
Planning an off-grid home with energy-saving features from the start is always a good idea. The end result will save you money and is more likely to be compliant while also being aesthetically pleasing at the same time.
Talk to solar experts and ask your design and build team about sustainable materials that can be incorporated into the project. Plan a water-wise backyard and ensure that this is included in your budget—landscaping often becomes a costly afterthought.
Stay Involved in the Process
Stay in regular contact with your planners and builders throughout the process to ensure you’re happy with progress and can monitor how things are moving.
Whenever you visit the site (which should be regularly), make notes of the tasks you feel need attention, unfinished elements, and any issues or faults you notice. Another good idea is to enlist the help of a trusted friend as well as a qualified estate agent to stop by from time to time since they’ll know what to look for.
