Home ownership is part of the American dream, and those who dream big, may dream of designing and building their own homes. The design and build process allows you to customize your home to fit your lifestyle, interests, family, and future expectations. Building your home allows you to choose your home’s location, customize it to your exact specifications, save future costs and implement technological and energy efficient options.
Location
When you build, you choose your home’s location and the size of your land. For example, you may choose acreage with options to expand your land or buildings later. Land also allows you to avoid HOA fees and regulations. However, you may also choose a new housing development with unique community features.
Customization
A built home will reflect your design style, lifestyle, personality, and values. You choose everything from the architecture to the finishes, such as faucets and lighting. In addition, you develop your own floorplan, deciding how much space each room needs and placing them where you want them. You may also create privacy and energy efficiencies based on the orientation of the home, floor plan, and landscaping.
Cost Savings
Although building a home may have a higher initial cost, you will save over time. For example, your home will not need repairs or remodeling in the near future. New systems require very little yearly maintenance, and this maintenance will keep your home and its systems in working order. Finally, the appliances, finishes and systems in custom homes are typically of superior quality and under warranty.
Although you may work with a broker or real estate agent on your land purchase, you will not need one for your home purchase, so you will save closing costs and brokerage fees. In addition, you control the budget and can negotiate or shop around for the best prices. Finally, your new home meets all building codes and permitting requirements, eliminating the need for future upgrades.
Technology
Smart homes are growing in popularity, and if you build, you have the unique opportunity to build smart technology into your home from the start. Smart technology improves your safety, security and convenience. In addition, many homeowners’ insurance policies give discounts for smart technology.
Energy Efficiency
The time to build energy efficiency into a home is when it is built. New homes are already more energy efficient than established homes due to their updated HVAC and electrical systems. Your plumbing system will also promote water conservation. These homes also have the newest, most energy efficient windows and doors, better insulation and new appliances.
You may also build in renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, and you may receive tax credits for building these energy sources into your home.
Gain peace of mind by knowing the history of your home and learn the building process as you build. Choose your dream location and customize your home to your exact needs and desires. Consider taking advantage of future cost savings and implementing smart technology and energy saving systems into your new home.