Building Your Dream Home
We can certainly help you find the best piece of land to build your dream home on! And of course our experience comes in handy when you are looking for advice on who to turn to when you have that property…
When it comes to building your new home, you need to make sure you communicate with your builder about exactly what it is you are looking for in terms of style, layout and design. Be honest with your builder about your budget.
It’s your builders job to construct the home, but it is your responsibility to make them aware of the particular finishing details. Make sure they know exactly what it is you are looking for, and be prepared for the budget discussions that will be sure to follow. You may insist on a Sub-Zero fridge, but your budget may be a Frigidaire - be prepared to give up on another item in order to afford something else.
When starting with a blank slate (an empty lot), it often helps to have your builder working closely with you and your architect/designer so that your dream home fully represents your vision AND your budget. The best way to make sure expectations are met is to start a scrapbook at your planning stage. Include pictures, product samples, catalogues, whatever it is that will help you communicate your needs to your builder.
Choose products that fit your lifestyle. Your family is unique and so are your new home needs. Whether you have young children, run a home based business or are an active senior, there are product and material choices designed for the way you live. For instance, extra durable floor finishes make sense for families with young children, while lever handles on doors and bathroom fixtures make life easier for anyone with mobility impairment or arthritic hands.
The following list is a small sampling of some of the important decisions to be considered when planning your budget and designing your dream home:
Windows & window treatments (blinds, curtains etc.)
Floor Coverings - Engineered Hardwood, Laminate, Carpet, Tile
Ceiling Treatments - Decorative moldings, Exposed Beams, simple drywall finish
Lighting - Energy efficient, consider the use of each room - task lighting
Cabinets, Countertops, Fixtures & Faucets
Efficient Use of Space - Do you opt for open layouts or individual rooms?
Built in Convenience - Mudrooms with large closets; Kitchens with recycling bins and walk in pantries; Garages and basements with personal storage for all your needs;
Layout & Function - Where will the family members play,study & watch TV while you are preparing meals? Do you require private space for work or relaxing?
Consider your furniture - Will you have ample room for that family sectional or will you need to purchase more compact furniture? Including a budget for new furnishings should also be considered when planning & financing your new home.
Technology - Internet connections, outlets, entertainment systems. Plan & pre-wire for it all in the construction phase - at least it is there for when you do plan to connect the whole home sound system.
Personal Security - video, alarms, motion sensors - all important to plan and implement in the construction phase.
Your Builder is going to be an important member of your extended family. Make sure you are compatible and enjoy working with them as you will be spending a lot of time working together. A bit of a hint - hosting a BBQ for your Builder and the trades at specific times during the construction phases helps!
