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Writer's pictureCoastlantic Home Builders

Do's and Don'ts of Building a New Home

Updated: Dec 11, 2023

Building a new home is a significant and exciting project, but it can also be complex and stressful if not properly planned and executed. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind when building a new home:

Dos:

  1. Plan Your Budget: Determine your budget early in the process and stick to it. Make sure to include not only construction costs but also allowances for unexpected expenses.

  2. Choose the Right Location: Select a location that suits your needs in terms of proximity to work, schools, amenities, and future growth potential.

  3. Hire an Experienced Architect and Builder: Seek recommendations and research the credentials of your architect and builder. They should have a solid track record and a good reputation.

  4. Design for Your Lifestyle: Design your home to fit your current and future needs. Consider factors like family size, aging in place, and any specific interests or hobbies.

  5. Prioritize Energy Efficiency: Incorporate energy-efficient features and materials into your design to save on long-term energy costs and reduce your environmental footprint.

  6. Get Necessary Permits: Ensure that you obtain all the necessary permits and comply with local building codes and regulations. Ignoring this can lead to costly delays and legal issues.

  7. Create a Detailed Contract: Have a comprehensive written contract with your builder that outlines all aspects of the project, including timelines, costs, and responsibilities.

  8. Regularly Inspect the Work: Visit the construction site regularly to inspect the work and ensure it's progressing as expected. This can help catch issues early.

  9. Communicate Openly: Maintain open and regular communication with your builder and architect. Address concerns and changes promptly.

  10. Plan for Future Maintenance: Think about the long-term maintenance of your home. Choose durable materials and systems that are easy to maintain.

Don'ts:

  1. Don't Rush the Planning Phase: Take your time in the planning and design phase. Rushing can lead to costly changes during construction.

  2. Don't Skip the Inspection: Hire a professional inspector to review the construction at various stages. Skipping this step can result in hidden problems.

  3. Don't Cut Corners on Quality: Opt for quality materials and workmanship. Cutting costs on these can lead to problems down the road.

  4. Don't Overcustomize: While personalization is essential, avoid over-customizing your home, as it can make it challenging to sell in the future.

  5. Don't Ignore Resale Value: Even if you plan to stay in your new home forever, consider its resale value. Trends and needs change, and you may need to sell it someday.

  6. Don't Forget About Landscaping: Plan for landscaping from the beginning. Neglecting this can leave you with a barren yard for a long time.

  7. Don't Change Plans Mid-Construction: Avoid making significant changes to the design or materials once construction has begun. Changes can be costly and cause delays.

  8. Don't Ignore Safety: Safety should be a top priority during construction. Ensure that the construction site is safe for workers and visitors.

  9. Don't Assume Everything Will Go Smoothly: Be prepared for unexpected delays, issues, and cost overruns. Have a contingency fund to cover these surprises.

  10. Don't Neglect Insurance: Make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage during the construction process to protect against accidents or damage.

Building a new home can be a rewarding experience when approached with careful planning and attention to detail. By following these dos and don'ts, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfying outcome. Hiring the right professional, can eliminate a lot of the headaches and problems of inexperience in the short term; and save some big money over the life of the build.



Planning a New Home


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