It’s great to splurge on parts of your home that will last long-term, like the foundation, framing and windows. That said, it’s important to know when you can save some cash too. Standard materials are a great option for areas of your home with the intention of upgrading sometime down the line when you can afford it. This way, you get all you need now while banking on better-quality materials in the future. It’s a logical approach to new home construction and design. Here are areas you should splurge on and what to save on.
Splurges
A general rule of thumb for homeowners looking to make smart investments when it comes to their home is to choose permanent elements, such as the foundation, insulation, entire rooms, square footage and heights of each room.
Ceiling Heights
When building your home, the ceiling height can significantly impact the overall look and feel of the room. Not only does it open up space physically, but it can also offer an intangible sense of luxury and comfort. This is why higher ceilings are a popular option – that extra foot of space makes all the difference and gives any space an open, modern feel.
Windows and Doors
Adding windows and doors to your new home may appear straightforward, but it is a complex undertaking that can affect the structural stability of your house. That’s why it’s so important to consult with a new home consultant for guidance on the best locations and number of windows and doors. This ensures that your home will be filled with natural sunlight and feature the views you want to see.
Fireplace (If You Get One)
Winter nights spent by a warm fire are undeniably magical. However, if you’ve never managed to make that dream a reality in your own home, now is the time to do it. Investing in an efficient electric fireplace can bring you ultimate comfort. So don’t wait any longer and splurge on what promises to be a worthwhile investment now before tearing down walls and hiring pricey contractors down the line.
Kitchen
A kitchen is a special place that brings people together. Not only does it serve as the ideal spot for cooking up beloved family recipes but also for hosting dinner parties and celebrations with family and friends. Make sure your kitchen looks great while still being functional, which may require investing more money than in other parts of your home. Features to splurge on include layout, appliances, storage, and countertops.
Insulation
Adding insulation to your home may not seem like a priority right now, but it is one of the smartest investments you can make in the long run. Insulation is a barrier between a home and its surroundings, preventing hot air from escaping during the winter and keeping cool air in during the summer. With adequate insulation, you can save on your energy bills sooner rather than later.
Electrical, Plumbing, and Gas Lines
While some homeowners opt to put electrical, plumbing, and gas setups in place during remodeling projects further down the line, it is best to have them taken care of from the very beginning. It will ensure that you avoid turning your home into a construction zone and tearing out walls just to add the necessary plumbing. Furthermore, you can rest assured knowing that all of your desired changes are accounted for from the get-go so that it is less of a hassle when you decide to move forward with renovations.
Outdoor Space
When designing your custom home, consider allowing a wide open outdoor space with flat parts to build a deck, put a swimming pool or hot tub, or just have outdoor furniture to relax in. You can get to these features later on. However, it is important to have a good foundation in our backyard living space.
Labor
Choosing a home builder is an important step when creating your dream home. It’s smart to go with a builder who is experienced and highly rated since skimping on quality labor can lead to disaster down the line. Nevertheless, it’s beneficial to do some legwork before selecting a contractor. Researching prior projects, checking references, and interviewing multiple builders can ensure that you are getting your money’s worth. Taking the time out to properly vet a potential builder can help you rest assured that everything goes smoothly throughout the course of the project and will pay off in the long run.
Saves
When it comes to making decisions about low-budget options for your home, it makes sense to focus on non-permanent features. This is a great way to save money now because even though these items might not last as long or fit your aesthetic, they can easily be upgraded or replaced in the future.
Walls and Paint Colors
If you’re trying to save on your wall treatments and want to add a personal touch in the future, it’s best to look at more affordable options for now. Shiplap, moody paint colors, and other fun designs are all still achievable but can be done when funds become available later. To keep costs down even further, consider doing them yourself, as there are many online tutorials that guide projects through every step.
Finishes, Fixtures, and Hardware
Finishes and fixtures don’t tend to last as long as flooring or countertops when it comes to keeping up with trends, so consciously choosing something more traditional and cost-effective now can save you money for when something needs replacing down the road. This way, you will still get something that does the job for now but not lose out on the opportunity to make sure your home remains current and stylish in years to come!
Here are some other home parts you can save on now:
- Faucets
- Shower heads
- Light fixtures
- Cabinet hardware
- Carpets
Low Traffic Flooring
Bedrooms and bathrooms are areas of the house that typically see less traffic, making it a perfect spot to skimp on costs if needed. You can opt for laminate flooring or carpet instead of hardwood floors which may be out of your budget – just plan to switch them later if possible. Parents with young children should also pay attention when selecting flooring; they may want to opt for a more economical option knowing the room will likely have to be replaced due to frequent use over time.
Generation Homes Northwest Will Help You Build Quality at the Best Price
At Generation Homes Northwest, we specialize in providing the Clark County region with thoughtful custom home designs and unparalleled customer care. We understand that every home is a reflection of the family who lives in it – and so, we strive to capture the spirit of our clients in each individual project. Throughout a series of conversations, our team puts effort into learning your personal style and preferences as well as understanding how you live day to day. From there, we can assist in tailoring the perfect floor plan for your needs; we guide you through customizing the exterior design, deciding on materials and finishes, and selecting fixtures that emphasize the distinctive flavor of your home. Working together towards achieving a shared dream makes it easy to see why our clients love their new homes.
We also have other home options, such as homes for sale now/newly-built properties.
Contact us today to get started building your dream home! Visit our About Us and Our Process page for more information about our company.
