If you are building a new house it is crucial that you have a thorough understanding of the build and design process such as your house floor plans, site / foundation layout and how your house will look once constructed. The following points outline some important questions to consider when it comes to your new house floor plans.
What Style of Home Do You Want?
Depending on your lifestyle at present and where you hope to be in the future, will help you determine the style of home you need. If you are a young couple building your first house together and you hope to start a family then it is important that you factor in such features as outdoor living areas, space and rooms for the children. A great place to gain ideas and inspiration about house plans is to talk to family, friends and work colleagues who have been through the home building process. Ask them about the pro's and con's, what worked well for them and what they wish they had done differently. Once you have gathered an idea of what you like put it down in writing and pictures, then present these to your architect or builder who will formulate a working drawing of your proposed new home.
How Much Will It Cost and What Can You Afford?
Your first step here should be to devise a budget. Make an appointment with your banks mortgage manager or home loan specialist so that you can get a financial understanding of what you can afford to spend and pay back. This is a key step which enables you to either cut back on building costs / plans or alternatively allow for additional features you weren't sure you could afford. If you are getting an architectural design company to design your blueprints make sure you find out what their working drawing will include price wise by obtaining a quote. For example some companies may or may not include landscaping details, retaining wall details, building permits and council fees in the final quote. Having a cost estimate for your new house will help you anticipate hidden costs which are more than likely to pop up along the way.
Should You Employ a House Building Company or Builder?
There are several options available to you when it comes to implementing your blueprints into action. Design and Build companies generally manage the whole process from your new home plans, consents & permits, gathering building materials through to site construction. You're able to judge the quality and style of designs available by viewing the company's show homes. An advantage to going through a design and build company is that you can see what you will get before you invest. Another option is to employ the services of an independent builder. If you decide upon the latter option be sure to ask to see examples of their work, get time frame estimates of when you can be in your new home and draw up a building contract that fully comprises all of your expectations.
It is a very exciting time building a home from scratch, but it can quickly become overwhelming given the array of details that encompass floor plans and site construction. Be sure to consider each of the above questions and research each possibility before making a solid commitment.
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