Building a new custom home is a significant undertaking that involves various facets and considerations. Families who embark on such projects often have many questions and concerns. Based on trends, search habits, and commonly asked questions, the following are some of the most searched topics for bringing custom homes to life.
Comparisons
The first decision you will face for your new home is deciding whether you would like to design a custom-built home or buy an existing one. Pre-existing homes are move-in ready, while custom homes allow you to tailor every detail to your family’s needs.
Costs and Budgeting
When working with a professional home builder, consider the cost per square foot. When building a custom home, the cost per square foot is typically calculated by dividing the total cost of construction by the total living or heated square footage of the house. Your contractor will be able to share the specifics of the factors they consider when making cost calculations. It’s important to account for financing and unexpected hidden costs when budgeting for your new custom home.
Design Ideas
The features you choose for your custom home will affect the overall cost of the project. If you choose the most modern, luxury items then your cost will climb. Many homeowners opt to get less expensive features that they can upgrade in the future to offset the initial build cost. Eco-friendly and sustainable features like solar panels and underfloor heaters are typically a larger investment upfront but can help you save money over the long term. Consider the energy efficiency of your floor plan when designing your custom home layout as well.
Virtual Walkthrough
Taking a virtual tour of your home before construction begins helps you experience your new home in real time and make important design decisions.
Land and Lot Selection
Preparing your land for the construction of your new home is a cost to consider when creating your custom home budget. Land preparation involves an initial site assessment, clearing of the land, soil testing, grading, excavation, and backfilling. Before the foundation of your new home is built, the soil must be treated to prevent pests, and trenches and draining systems must be dug for utilities to work properly.
Local Builders and Architects
It’s important to find an experienced custom home builder that you trust to work with. Compare the project quotes from different contractors but remember that you get what you pay for. Reviews and online ratings of local builders will give you a better idea of the value that different home builders can bring.
Building Codes and Permits
Remember to factor in building codes and permits for the area where you are building your custom home into your checklist of considerations. Local building codes, restrictions, and HOAs can impact your home’s design.
Contract and Timeline
Before the construction of your custom home begins, discuss with your builder the anticipated timeline and whether delays will result in added expenses for you contractually.
Technologies and Home Automation
How much smart technology do you want to incorporate in your new custom-built home? This will have a direct impact on the overall cost of your home build. Smart features such as voice control lighting and smart washing machines will make daily life easier, while smart home security systems and energy management systems will keep you safe and save you money over time.
Landscaping
Whether you plan to install an outdoor kitchen space, a pool, or an elaborate garden full of native plants, include the exterior landscaping of your home in your overall budget considerations.
Utilities and Infrastructure
When it comes to planning infrastructure and utilities, future-proofing your custom home can help you save money in the long term. Consider installation costs of septic systems compared to connection fees for sewer connections, initial drilling, and set-up of well water sources versus the monthly water bills for municipal water, general electrical planning, plumbing considerations, and local regulations.
Warranty and Post-Build Considerations
Your post-build warranty, move-in checklist, and routine maintenance should also be included in your custom home considerations.
Inspections and Quality Assurance
Home inspections are important during the custom home building process and following construction before moving in. Final walkthroughs ensure quality craftsmanship and attention to detail to give you the best possible living experience.
It’s important to note that the popularity of specific topics might vary based on the region, local market conditions, and emerging trends. However, the topics mentioned above provide a comprehensive overview of the various aspects people consider when building a custom home. At LaFollette Custom Homes, our philosophy is that our reputation will become our greatest asset if we build quality homes. Contact us today to learn more about our virtual walkthrough process.