subject: What You Should Know When Building A Custom Home [print this page] When building a custom home, you will have to make compromises in order to stay in budget. Even if you have your general contractor, you will still have to spend a lot of time on the project, since you will have to choose almost everything and make decisions: lighting position, door hinges, toilets, baseboard trim and that's just a small sample, each may involve a trip to somewhere. If you are willing to spend time and effort through out the project, you will end up with the perfect custom home. There are numerous things you should keep in mind before building a custom home.
Plan the budget
The most important thing that you need to keep in mind before building your custom home is the budget. Planning your budget carefully will help you understand the overall cost of the construction process. Having a detailed budget will also help you deal with inevitable changes that many people go through when building homes.
Find the right home developer
When you are looking to build a custom home, the reputation of the custom home developer is crucial. While new developers are perfectly safe to work with, it's always better to find a builder that is well established within your community. This will ensure that you get a home that is structurally sound. Remember that custom home developers vary from place to place and so finding the right developer may take time.
Check local board for restrictions
Some places have requirements that dictate the size of the lot, square footage requirements, minimum set backs, and other regulations. Also, there may be architectural standards that should be met, particularly if the lot is in a subdivision. You have to ensure that all your plans meet all these requirements or you may no be able to get a building permit.
Choose your area and lot
You have to pay close attention to grading, how water runs over the lot and the amount of work that should be done (like clearing) to get the lot set for construction as well as the ease hooking up utilities. In case you are in rural areas, the lot should be able to support a septic tank and a well.
Choose your house plan
You can work with your preferred architect and design one, purchase one from home designers, or purchase a plan and confer with your architect on changes. You can also consult with an architect to ensure your home works with the lot you've chosen.
Think green
In custom home development, staying Eco-friendly not only benefits the universe, but also your monthly utilities. Always remember this when buying construction materials and designing your home. Environmental alternatives are available in virtually every aspect of house building, from natural construction materials to low flow toilets.
When you are looking into custom homes, visit a number of different display homes from many different house builders. Doing your research prior to choosing your custom home developer will ensure that you receive a home that you will love for many years to come.
