Under the Contractor Umbrella

It's so wonderful to have a home built to your own specifications. Living in a custom-built home should feel peaceful and enjoyable. But in order to enjoy this peace, there are a few mistakes you'll need to avoid during the home design and construction process.

Not paying enough attention to the property

Sometimes, people get so excited about the house itself that they don't put enough thought into the property surrounding it. Make sure you really do your research before selecting a home site. Visit the location, drive around the neighborhood, and consider how far the location is from your workplaces and other places you go regularly. You'll love your house even more if it's on the right land.

Going with the baseline finishes

Most custom home builders will give you a price for their baseline finishes, which are usually things like laminate counters, simple light fixtures, and contractor-grade paint. If you're on a tight budget, then choosing these finishes can save you money. But if you do have the money to spend, upgrading your finishes is a good idea. The upgraded finishes don't just look nicer; they tend to last a lot longer, which will save you money over the life of your home. For example, you'll pay more for granite counters than for laminate, but they'll last essentially forever, whereas laminate counters may need to be replaced in a few years.

Accepting the home design too quickly

When your building company hands you their first home design, it is tempting to just give the "okay" so the project can move ahead. But it's really hard, if not impossible, for the builders to change the design once they start working. As such, you really should take your time looking over the design and thinking about any changes you might want to make before giving your approval. Have a few friends look at the design and offer their input. Ask the builder questions. There is nothing wrong with asking for changes if you want them. In fact, the builder probably expects you to want something changed, and they allow time for those changes at this early stage of the process. 

If you take your time to review the design, scope out the building site, and choose the best finishes for your needs, then you'll be well on your way to owning a gorgeous home. Talk to your custom home construction builder for more tips and advice.