Things to Think About When Building a Custom Home

In a bid to own a home, you have different options. You will have the alternative of designing and building a custom home. Also available is the option of buying a prebuilt home or working with contractors to modify a property.
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The process of owning a custom home differs extensively from other options. Building a custom home is demanding. It may also require enormous capital and careful planning. But when you finally succeed in owning a custom home, the benefits are worth the stress.

Benefits of building a custom home

​Below are some benefits you can only get from custom homes:

• You can maximize the space and functionality of the property.
• The designs are specific to meet your needs and suit your lifestyle.
• Sometimes, it may be cheaper than a prebuilt home.
• You can build it to satisfy your future needs such that you wouldn’t need any remodelling.
• It allows you to build where you want.

Common mistakes when building a custom home

​However, you can also make mistakes while trying to build a custom home. The mistakes you should avoid here include:

• Hiring the wrong builder for your custom home.
• Choosing the wrong location for the property.
• Considering materials only because of their aesthetics.
• Failing to plan for the long term.
• Looking for something else that wasn’t in the plan.
• Adding rooms or features that you don’t need.
• Losing track of how you want to use the space.

What to consider when building a custom home

​To avoid these mistakes, the following are the things you should consider when building a custom home:

1.     Know the right sequence

​Some people think that the sequence to use when building a custom home is to buy the land, get the plan, and hire a builder. However, that sequence is wrong. If you want to construct a custom home, the perfect progression is to draw the plan, get a builder, look for suitable land.
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If you follow the proper sequence, it will prevent you from imposing your custom home on a lot that will not suit it.
 
2.     Your design

When you are thinking of a custom home, you want to create a distinctive home design. Doing so will make your home unique and will also meet your taste. There are numerous design options that you may want to consider. But before you settle for any design, you should consider the functionality.

Your daily routine will also help you to choose an appropriate design for your custom home. For instance, if you prefer sitting outdoors, then you consider including a patio area.

The options and designs may be overwhelming. But you can pick at least two or three designs that you like, then combine the ideas. It is also preferable to differentiate your needs from your wants.
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When you settle for a design, ensure that your architect and builder work together. Doing this will prevent you from getting a contractor that cannot build the type of custom home of your choice.

3.     Find the right builder

When building a custom home, it is vital to have a strict process to help you choose the right builder. That is because the builder you settle on determines the success of the building process.

It would be best if you choose a builder that has constructed something similar in the past. Also, your builder should have the necessary license, insurance, experience, and competence. You should be able to see their documents during the screening process. If you choose the wrong builder, you may not be able to construct the custom home of your dream.
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4.     Find the right land

After deciding on a design and hiring a builder, it would be best to liaise with the builder to get the right lot for the type of custom home you want. The location you chose can limit the type of home you build.

Different lots have specific factors that influence houses. Ensure that you consider the following:

• Building codes of the area
• Zoning issues
• Soil type, topography, and quality
• Presence of groundwater and underground rocks
• Environmental climates
• Process for linking utilities
• Style of other homes in the vicinity
• The average value of homes in the neighborhood
• Proximity to your place of work or business
• Proximity to amenities such as medical services, schools, recreational centers, fitness centers, clubhouses, etc.

5.     Your budget
Your budget is essential if you choose to build a custom home. In your budget, you should consider the lot, floor plan, and interior design. If the land is rocky, steep, or has several trees, your budget should include; blasting rocks, landscaping, and tree cutting.
 
The floor plan of your choice should be affordable. Avoid adding extra rooms that may increase your budget. Also, your budget should include interior designs such as the type of floors, walls, painting, and cabinets.
 
There may be some unexpected modifications and delays during the construction process. We advise that you make room for them. Despite the stress of building a custom home, your custom home will be beneficial and satisfying.

Conclusion

Choosing to build a custom home - a home that's designed around you and your family's lifestyle - can produce a rewarding home that you'll enjoy for many years. However, it's important to understand the pitfalls, and follow a route that will provide you with the best results and the least stress.

About the Author:
North County Property Group provides San Diego property management, vacation rental services, and real estate sales & leasing in the various communities throughout San Diego County.

Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?

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Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home.  and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. 
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