When you’re ready to build your “forever home”, there are many things to consider. Building a custom home provides endless possibilities since you’re building from scratch. However, we know that not everyone’s budget is endless—so where’s the middle ground?
When you’re building a home on a budget, we’ve found there are key areas of the home that are worth investing more of your budget. Depending on your lifestyle and your plans for how long you intend on living in the home, you could not only get the most out of your time while living in the home, but also improve your resell value should you decide to sell.
1. The kitchen
For most families, the kitchen is the heart of a home. Kitchens are a place where we cook, dine, and gather to entertain loved ones during special occasions and holidays. Unsurprisingly, the kitchen is also one of the most expensive rooms to build and customize. However, if you’re the type of person that spends a considerable amount of time in your kitchen, renovating it may be worth the extra investment.
2. Flooring
There are many options for flooring for most every budget and style. Flooring is an area that you want to splurge on, not only because of aesthetics, but because it can impact the value of your home and the type of flooring you choose can impact how long it lasts. If you have pets or kids, it’s smart to invest in wood, high-quality laminate, or tile in areas where moisture is prone—such as the kitchen, mudroom, and bathroom. If you prefer carpet, try and find a durable, stain-resistant carpet in the bedrooms.
3. Storage space
Whether you’re a family of four, or empty nesters, over the years you’re bound to acquire more “stuff” the longer you’re in a home. Having proper areas for storage space, including extra closets, specialty shelving, and overhead storage in your garage, is an excellent way to keep your house functional and organized.
4. Electrical outlet placement
How many times have you realized an electrical outlet was placed in the most inconvenient location? Having to arrange furniture and electronics to coincide with your electrical sockets can be a difficult and inconvenient task. When you start planning the layout of a room, take time to consider adding convenient charging stations for electronics and convenient sockets for things like hairdryers, flat irons, and electric razors.
5. Outdoor space
Depending on your lifestyle, an outdoor space should be an area you put some money toward. If you enjoy entertaining friends and family, investing in comfortable, durable outdoor furniture and appliances will pay off in the form of great memories made in this space. Having an outdoor oasis is something you’ll enjoy alone, or alongside company during parties or yearly holiday gatherings.
6. The mudroom
Otherwise known as the entryway, the mudroom is the first area you will see when you enter your home every day. Depending on you and your family’s needs, there are multiple ways to ensure this area is clean, convenient, and aseptically pleasing. If you have a large family, consider adding custom shelving or storage for items like backpacks, purses, coats, and umbrellas.
Designing and building your custom home can be an exciting and somewhat overwhelming experience. There are so many design options to consider and vendors to keep up with throughout the process. However, when you work with a trusted group of lenders, designers, and builders, you can have a team of knowledgeable partners on your side to answer any questions, help you stay on budget, and help keep the process moving forward.