Building a custom home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it's important to be well-prepared before starting the process. These projects can be more complicated and stressful then they appear so it is also advised to hire an experienced design team to help guide you through the process. Here are a few things you should know before building a custom home:
Set a custom home budget.
Building a custom home is a significant expense, so it's important to set a budget that you are comfortable investing in the project. More importantly, it is important to be transparent and share your accurate budget numbers with your designer and general contractor. Transparency and trust will make the project more successful, so be open with discussing what you are comfortable spending with your design team. As you are calculating your custom home budget, be sure to factor in all of the costs associated with building a home, including the cost of land, materials, labor, permit fees, design fees, and any additional features or amenities that you want to include. You should also be prepared for unexpected costs that may arise during the construction process, so building in a contingency amount is recommended.
Choose the right location for your custom home.
The location of your custom home will be a key factor in its value and appeal. Consider factors such as proximity to schools, public transportation, and amenities like shopping and dining. You should also consider the long-term prospects for the area, including the potential for future development or growth. You want your investment to pay off, and in general, real estate tends to appreciate in value over time. Location can also impact other aspects of your project like, availability of material and labor, cost of mobilizing a construction site, complications with foundations and structure. Engage your design team to talk through to the pros and cons of your property and the ideal location to place your project on the site.
Work with a reputable and experienced residential builder.
Building a custom home is a significant investment, so it's important to choose a reputable builder with a proven track record of delivering high-quality homes on time and on budget. Research and compare builders in your area, and make sure to get references and check their credentials before making a decision. We also advise picking the builder based on reputations, skill, and alignment of values. Don’t select a contractor based on price as often the cheapest builders will end up cutting corners. Pick a contractor and then work with them and your design team to develop a design that meets your budget.
Choose the right design team with custom home experience.
A good design team can help you turn your dream home into a reality. Look for a team that has experience in custom home design and a track record of creating functional and visually appealing homes that align with your taste and values. You should also consider your personal style and preferences when choosing a design team, as they will be working closely with you to bring your vision to life. A great designer is worth the investment and a well designed home will be worth more in the long run. This isn’t a place to cut corners or tighten your purse strings. Investing more in the design phases can save you thousands of dollars in construction, and can lead to a home that is much more enjoyable for you and your family and much more valuable as an investment.
Plan for the future with your custom home design.
While it's important to focus on the present when building a custom home, it's also a good idea to consider the future. Consider factors such as the potential for future family growth or changes in your lifestyle, and design your home with these changes in mind. This can help ensure that your custom home will meet your needs for years to come.
Overall, building a custom home is a significant investment that requires careful planning and preparation. It is recommended that you assemble a talented team to help you achieve your goals. A talented designer, trustworthy builder, a great location, a carefully crafted budget, and a long term plan can take the stress out of the process and help ensure your new home project is a resounding success.
