Building a home will cost you a substantial amount of money, but it helps you create a space that suits your needs. For example, if you value privacy, then having a home is an ideal solution. After all, a home is where you create a family bond, nurture love, and have a relaxing space.
But building a home takes more than having building materials. This post compiles an A-list of 7 crucial things to consider when you’re building a house.
Ensure you have sufficient funds
Building a home might cost less than buying, but it’s still a substantial financial decision. When building a house, you must first know how much it will cost you to the end. Then see if you have sufficient savings to support your plan.
If not, you may opt for a mortgage. In this case, a self-build mortgage is the ultimate solution. However, this funding plan is different from buying a mortgage because lenders release money in stages and not on a single transaction.
Self-build mortgage comes in two types:
- Advanced payment scheme- This is released before each building stage, removing the need for getting loans.
- An arrears-based mortgage- This payment scheme releases money in stages after each complete stage.
You can get a self-build mortgage from building societies or banks. However, most lenders avoid offering advanced payment because it’s a high-risk form of funding.
Choose between original and ready-made design
Building a home will have you grappling between an original or a ready-made design. You can rummage through various construction sites and gauge your preference based on how homes look.
And remember, each design comes with its cost. It will help if you get professional opinions from homeowners who have bought houses before to know the pros and cons involved. Also, ensure you check discussion forums and boards for tips, information, and advice.
Professionals like Mark Stewart Home Designs can work with your local architect to suit your needs. They can help with specific requirements such as appearance, space, and planning of your home.
You might have an original design, but your building space might not accommodate your idea. You’ll then need to work with a reliable architect who’ll make your dream actualise.
The original design is, however, costlier than a prebuilt design. But your home will have a space to relax, get entertained, and, best of all, give you a sense of fulfilment.
Understand your needs
For your house to feel like a home, you must consider the must-haves for your project. Communicate your ideas to the architect and get feedback to know if your needs and desires will get fulfilled. The size of your home will matter depending on the number of people who’ll live there.
A professional guide will help avoid mistakes like having too many but tiny rooms. The more the rooms, the higher the cost. If you work from home, ensure you have an executive study room to cut business expenses.
Do you have plans to host family and friends on weekends? Consider having guest rooms to accommodate them. Utilities like a pantry, entertainment area, patio, laundry, and basements are also necessities to consider.
Plan your space
There are basic principles to consider when planning your space. First, a dining and living room should be on the southwest or south side of your home. This is where you’ll be spending most of the time when at home, so make it as cozy and comfortable as you can.
Add large windows to get tons of light. Other factors are to divide the home into different zones. The crucial areas include a dining room, living room, bathrooms, kitchen, laundry space, and bedrooms.
A recreational and gym areas are modern conveniences when building a home.
Lighting and automation
A decent home gives you a sense of comfort and warmth. Effectively illuminated elements give your home beauty and charm. Lightings adds ambience to a garden for a stunning landscape. Lighted garages and driveways keep you safe.
You may add modern smart home elements to optimise energy consumption by controlling AC, alarm systems, and central heating systems. These technological advancement elements secure your home and allow you to manage your property remotely.
Security cameras and automated door locks beef up security at home. But, of course, coming to a home that’s too cold or too warm is an unpleasant thing. Luckily, you can control the temperature via the HVAC system.
The bottom line
As you build your home, ensure your needs get fulfilled; it might not be 100%, but it should not be a mediocre project. The best thing is to seek advice and invaluable information from a professional.
(Disclaimer: This content is a partnered post. This material is provided as news and general information. It should not be construed as an endorsement of any investment service. The opinions expressed are the personal views and experience of the author, and no recommendation is made.)
