Tips Before Starting Your New Build

Building a custom home is a dream shared by many, but the journey from vision to reality can be both exciting and overwhelming. From conceptualizing your ideal space to making it a tangible reality, the process involves careful planning, thoughtful decisions, and a touch of creativity. To help you embark on this thrilling adventure, here are some invaluable tips to guide you through the process of building your dream custom home.

1. Define Your Vision:

Begin by clearly defining what you want in your new home. Consider your lifestyle, family needs, and future plans. Visualize the layout, architectural style, and essential features. Creating a vision board and source list can help you articulate your ideas and communicate them effectively to architects and builders. Save yourself the hassle of making changes during construction. It can be both costly and stressful.

If you plan on bringing a designer on board, the best time to do so is when you are working on the architectural plans for your home. Often times architects hone in on functionality and miss the design aspect. Having an interior designer on board earlier in the process can help you and the designer curate the architecture and a design, without being rushed. This way, you can ensure the design is perfect!

2. Establish a Realistic Budget:

Understanding your financial limits is crucial. Consult with builders and architects to get a realistic estimate of costs involved in your project. Include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Balancing your dream features with your budget will ensure that you don’t overspend while still achieving the essentials of your vision. This is best done prior to purchasing land to build on. The lot itself is a major factor in costs. At Skyline Build & Design, we have an option to begin the pre-construction portion of the agreement and we will assist in looking for the land. So what happens if you are over budget? There are most definitely solutions. First, consider moving forward with just the architectural drafting. Many times a well drafted plan with your desired vision can extremely assist builders with narrowing the pricing down. We would recommend going with a design and build company to not just streamline the process, but to also bring in the builder knowledge to lower cost. For example, putting in three engineered wood beams would most likely be more expensive than one metal beam. Typically a drafter won’t catch that aspect. An engineer might not consider construction costs very much. Secondly, prioritize your vision and look for areas that you can save. Maybe go with a more affordable option with the rear cladding of the home or consider economical yet reliable appliances in the dirty kitchen. There are always details that can be changed to save. Lastly, consider downsizing the square footage. Bigger is not always better! Just by reducing a home by 250 square feet, you can save $75,000 on average. Maybe there are certain areas in the home you can cut out or combine with another room. A great way to work on this is to hire a designer for space planning. Yes the designer has a cost associated, but the savings on change orders and space planning will save you more!

3. Research and Choose the Right Team:

Selecting the right architect, builder, and designer is pivotal. Look for experienced professionals with a strong portfolio of custom home designs. Ask for recommendations, check online reviews, and conduct interviews. In today’s time, Instagram is a major source of information and can often show the full portfolio of a builder. A skilled and reliable team will translate your vision into a well-executed reality. Lastly, seek to hire a designer that fits your style. There are many designers who are great at what they do. However, if there is a style you prefer, make sure to find a designer that specializes in that style! The best way to know if you are selecting the right team is to determine if there is a system in place. Ask the represantive you are getting a consultation from about these things. Does the company use a software management system to capture details and keep you up to speed? What is the transition process look like from the drafters and designers to the builder? All of these are great questions to reveal the ability of your team to work together and efficiently.

4. Focus on Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:

Incorporate eco-friendly elements into your design. Opt for energy-efficient appliances, proper insulation, and sustainable building materials. Not only do these choices benefit the environment, but they also reduce long-term energy costs, making your custom home both eco-conscious and economical. The upfront cost may be slightly higher, but to maintain the home/utility costs savings far outweigh the initial investment. If you have room in your budget, this is is a must.

5. Plan for the Future:

Think ahead. Consider factors such as aging in place, accommodating a growing family, or incorporating smart home technology. Design your home to be adaptable to future needs, ensuring it remains functional and relevant for years to come. This can mean maybe running conduits for future electrical. Adding plumbing for a future pool. Small items like these will cost very minimal, but will prevent patching and repairs when or if you do decide to add to your home.

6. Pay Attention to Detail:

Small details can make a significant difference in the overall aesthetics and functionality of your custom home. Focus on aspects like lighting fixtures, door handles, flooring materials, and paint colors. Thoughtful choices in these areas can enhance the ambiance and reflect your personal style.

7. Regular Communication is Key:

Maintain open and transparent communication with your builders and architects throughout the project. Regular updates and discussions ensure that everyone is on the same page, minimizing misunderstandings and maximizing the efficiency of the construction process.

8. Don’t Compromise on Quality:

Quality should always be a priority. Invest in high-quality materials and skilled labor. Cutting corners may seem like a cost-saving measure initially, but it can lead to more significant expenses in the long run due to repairs and replacements.

9. Plan for Landscaping:

Your custom home doesn’t end with the walls; the surrounding landscape is equally important. Plan your outdoor space, considering gardens, patios, and other outdoor amenities. A harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces adds value to your custom home.

10. Patience is a Virtue:

Lastly, remember that building your dream home is a time-consuming process. Be patient and trust the expertise of your chosen professionals. Rushing decisions or construction phases can lead to undesirable outcomes. Embrace the journey, and in the end, you’ll have a home that’s a true reflection of your dreams and aspirations.

In conclusion, building a custom home is a thrilling adventure that allows you to create a living space perfectly tailored to your needs and desires. With careful planning, attention to detail, and the right team by your side, you can transform your vision into a reality that you and your family will cherish for years to come. Happy building!