Like kitchen remodeling, building a new home is very exciting. While partaking in these major projects can be thrilling, there is a lot of planning that needs to be done before the actual construction begins. It always helps to do your research prior to beginning your project. Doing so will give you more idea about what to expect and also help you avoid errors in the planning process.
Make sure to avoid these mistakes when planning a custom home.
Choosing a Team With No Chemistry
One of the first things you need to do when planning your project is to assemble your team. You want to hire a reliable architect, builder, and interior designer. It’s essential to build a strong team before you even start planning your custom home. When you already have a team, the budgeting will be easier, and you can avoid problems related to when a new member joins your team. These issues usually involve ideas that were suggested after the design process has already begun or is done.
Sacrificing Location for Price
It’s a common mistake for homeowners to sacrifice location for the price. We understand how attractive lower bids can be, but location should still be your priority. The better the location, the higher the value of the land will be. When it comes to custom homes, invest in the best land that fits your budget and that you can easily manage. A great lot in a prime location will boost the value of your home.
Thinking That Your Team Will Do All the Decisions for You
You want a home that is not only breathtaking but also evolves with your changing needs. Your construction team is always ready to help you make the best decisions for your new home. However, your finished house should reflect your personal style and lifestyle. When planning your project, make sure that you voice out your ideas to your team.
Remember that you don’t always have to follow standards or trends. Whether you’re planning a custom home or a kitchen remodeling project, consider professionals who have the same vision as you. Reliable contractors would listen to your suggestion and value the creativity of their clients.
Being Overwhelmed With All the Decisions You Need to Make
Building a home can involve a lot of decisions regarding big and small matters. Be careful with your choices because most times, one decision affects another. We understand how overwhelming it can be for homeowners, especially if it’s your first time planning a custom home. To avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed, take one step at a time. You can even ask your builder to create a site where you and your team can post questions and answer them when they can.
Not Reviewing the Contract Before Signing
Like with bathroom remodeling projects, you should have everything in writing before your home construction begins. It will keep you protected in case something wrong happens during the construction. Expect your contractors to provide you with contracts or agreements. If they can’t provide you with these documents, it’s a good idea to hire a lawyer who can create a contract or review it before the construction starts. Moreover, your contract should state the cost of labor, materials, and estimated start and completion dates. It should also have a detailed description of the work to be performed.
Setting Unrealistic Expectations
Delays are almost always inevitable when constructing a new house or building. It’s extremely important to set realistic expectations when building a new home. An unrealistic or aggressive schedule would be challenging for your contractors to meet.
When planning a bathroom remodeling project or building a home, always expect the unexpected. For instance, weather extremes and structural inadequacies can result in delays. Expect your project to experience little delays but when it’s taking too long, let your contractors know about your concern. During winter, you should plan your schedule with the possibility of delays due to bad weather.
Not Taking Your Time During the Designing Process
It’s easier to make changes on paper than when the construction already started. Never rush the design and programming process. These stages of your project can affect the longevity and appeal of your new home. With a well-thought-of design, the chances that you’ll love the result of your project are higher. It can help you avoid costly changes in the long run.
Not Considering the Future
When building an ADU accessory dwelling unit or designing your new home, don’t just think about the present. Choose to build a house that will still be easy to live on when you are older or after 20 years. Consider your other family members as well. Do you have kids or aging loved ones? Are you thinking of having more children in the next few years? Do your stairs have too many steps or are they hard to use for older individuals? These are just some questions to ask yourself when planning your custom home.
Skipping Built-In Furniture
Since your building your home from scratch, you have the option to go for built-in furniture. It’s a common misconception that built-in furniture is more expensive. During the initial stages of your project, be sure to factor in costs for furniture. You can add built-in furniture that is reasonably priced or even more affordable than regular pieces.
Not Getting a Proper Home Inspection
It can be tempting to skip the inspection because you want the work on your new house to be completed as soon as possible. This is one of the worst mistakes you can make when building your new home. Make sure to hire a third-party inspection company to detect problems and get them fixed before signing off your house.
Choose a reliable contractor for your home or ADU accessory dwelling unit construction project. At Evergreen Renovations & Roofing, we’re here to help with your design-build needs. Call us at (503) 720-4699 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.
