When you're building a new home, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to do some practical planning and communicating. Too many people regret not taking due diligence prior to signing off on the final plans, only to move in and discover that their kitchen isn't laid out the way they'd like it to be, or realising they forgot to include a powder room for guests.
Ending up with a home that works for you depends on a few key factors: how well you know what you want, being willing to pay for upgrades while your home is being built, and making certain that you and your builder are on the same page when it comes to expectations. To help avoid the most common after-built regrets, make sure you spend adequate time on each of the following elements prior to signing off on the final plans:
Choose the Right Materials
Choosing high quality materials and finishings will mean you can count on them to perform well and last a long time. For example, although carpet can be nice in bedrooms, it usually doesn't stand up to the heavy foot traffic of family areas. Spending a little extra on hardwood floorboards for areas such as the living room and dining room will not only extend the lifetime of your investment, but will also become a major selling point should you ever decide to move.
Think Carefully About Your New Kitchen
For most of us, the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house. Take the time to make sure the layout is logical and the traffic flow is good. And don't skimp on lighting - good ambient and task lighting are essential in a well-performing kitchen.
Don't Skimp on Bathrooms
Most families are comfortable with a master bath, a separate bathroom for the kids to share, and at least one smaller bathroom on the first (main) floor making it easily accessible for guests. Spending a little extra on this will pay off when it's time to sell your home too!
Think About the Future
Even if you don't plan on a "smart home", it never hurts to have the infrastructure in place should you change your mind in the future. It's another value-added feature to consider.
Don't Leave Everything Up to Your Builder
Your builder will accommodate you, but you shouldn't expect him to take the initiative when it comes to your floor plan or other details of the build that fall outside the scope of the home plan you've selected. The time to communicate is before and during the build - not when your new home is completed.
Forget Comparisons with the Neighbours' Homes
Just because your neighbours have a multi-level deck or a heated driveway doesn't mean you need to follow suit. Assess your priorities - what works for you and what's truly important to you - and make your own decisions without thinking about how they'll "look" to other people!
Make your decisions carefully, communicate them to your builder, be willing to pay for the extras, and you'll be more likely to move into the house of your dreams when the day finally comes and you put the key in the front door to start your new life!
