Custom-built homes are one of the best ways to buy a home that perfectly matches your and your family’s needs. But, before you choose a custom home builder, pay a deposit, and prepare to move, reviewing some of the most common mistakes can be helpful, says Brentwood Square Management. Home buyers often make the following mistakes when planning a custom-built home.
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Choosing Location Based Solely on Price
Location is an important consideration when custom building a home. It may be tempting to choose the cheapest lot, but the location also plays into home satisfaction. If you’re too far from retail or work, it may affect how much you enjoy your home once it’s finished. Hastings County, Ontario, has a lot of excellent places to build a custom home. However, you’ll want to give your vacant lot search ample time to choose the right one.
Not Hiring All Necessary Team Members From the Start
Some custom-build companies cover all aspects of the build process. Others, however, may require that you obtain your own architect to create a blueprint or interior designer to plan your home’s aesthetics. Hiring as you go can significantly slow down the process, so it’s usually good to have this information ahead of time. In some cases, it may even be more helpful to choose a team of designers and professionals who have previously worked together to help speed up the project’s timeline.
Second and Third-Guessing All Decisions
Second or third-guessing every decision you make can slow down your dream home’s design and build time. Consider what features are most important to you and how they fit in with your budget. You’ll also want to think about how long you plan on staying in the home. Many people custom build a home because they plan on living in it forever. If this is the case, think about what designs and features may be important to you when you’re older. If you plan on selling later, then you’ll want to keep resale value in mind when designing.
Hiring the Wrong Company
The home building company you choose can make all the difference in the world. You want to choose a company with previous experience in custom builds in your area. You also want a company that communicates efficiently with you and helps you design your dream home. A home build company with good problem-solving skills is also extremely useful.
Failing to Ask About Insurance
Whichever home building company you choose, you’ll want to make sure they have proper insurance. Liability insurance protects you if a contractor or designer is injured while working on your property. Some insurance can also help you avoid unexpected costs that may arise during the build. A few common insurance types include general liability, business owner’s insurance, workers’ compensation, and commercial auto insurance.
Ignoring Small Details
One of the biggest benefits of a custom build is that you get to create something that fits your every need and want. Give yourself plenty of time to review the small details, as this can be one of the best parts of building your home. Look at a lot of photographs and model homes to get design inspiration. Choose the materials and colors you enjoy most. Work with an interior designer to plan a home you’ll love. Don’t forget to consider details like the backyard, garage, and overall curb appeal.
Failing To Review the Contract
Carefully review any contract before signing. This ensures you don’t end up paying more than you expected or get locked into a deal that doesn’t work for you. In some cases, reviewing the contract with a real estate lawyer may even be worth it. A real estate lawyer can help explain what you’re signing to avoid any confusion throughout the process.
Not Creating a Budget
Creating a budget before beginning is also important. This ensures you choose a custom home build company that fits your price range. It also helps you stay on budget when choosing the location, materials, size, and build type. It can also be helpful to review your budget with your home designer to fill in any areas you may be missing.
Having a Strict Timeline
Coding, zoning, or building law changes can affect your intended build timeline. Make sure you discuss any important timelines with your builder to gauge whether or not they’re capable of meeting them. Of course, the size of your home and how personalized it is can also play into the expected timeline.
Custom-built homes allow you to turn your dream into a reality. Doing your research and giving yourself ample time to plan are key elements to ensuring you love your custom-built home. Choosing the right home-building company is also a requirement.
