What to Consider when Building your New Home

27.08.2022
Article by M.T. Metal Frame Houses

The building of your house is one the most exciting decisions and most probably the biggest investment you’ll ever make, so you need to take into account every little detail.

However, if you’re not careful, costly mistakes can happen. The best thing you can do is try to avoid those mistakes at all costs.

It all comes down to your planning, that’s the reason we gathered the top twelve (12) points to consider when building your brand-new home.

1. Pay Attention to Space Planning and Design

No doubt, the layout of your home matters. Think about the best way to use each space. Do you really need that extra storage space where your bathroom is? You need storage – especially if you live in a 4 seasons environment. But be careful as to where you think you need it. You don’t want it to take away space from other rooms.

2. Consider Your Lifestyle

Unfortunately, sometimes your dream home or what you think your dream home is, doesn’t always match your lifestyle. Have you thought about the future? Where will you be in 5 years? 10 years? Will you have a family? Do you plan on retiring here? Take this into consideration. Make sure your home has the necessary things you will need at these stages in your life. For example, if you plan on having children, you may want to make sure you have enough bedrooms to comfortably expand your family.

3. Look into Your HVAC System

It may seem like a small aspect right now – but on those hot summer days or cold winter nights, you’ll want a system that works properly with your house size. You won’t want to choose a system that is too small and can’t efficiently heat or cool down your entire home. Bigger than you need units also pose a problem – they may cause your monthly bills to skyrocket, that’s why you need to make sure you do your research on this one. Discuss your options with your homebuilder.

4. Light Fixtures Matter

Ever move into a new place, only to find that part of the living area isn’t well lit? Make sure there is more than enough light fixtures. Rewiring after moving in can prove to be a bit of a nuisance. Another thing to consider are the windows. Windows provide natural lighting during the day. In main rooms, aim for big windows that allow light to shine in (this means you won’t have to turn on any lights and it could potentially lower your electricity bill).

5. Utilization of all areas of the house

A house with unnecessary rooms and spaces can be very expensive, difficult to clean but also very large for no real reason. So, when designing your home, you need to ask yourself if you are really going to use certain rooms. A great idea is to combine two uses in one room. In this way you will make full use of the space and you will avoid unnecessary expenses.

6. Laundry Room Placement

When building a new home, you have options for your laundry room. Do you want it in the basement? The main floor? Or near the bedrooms? Ideally, near the bedrooms makes the most sense, as you won’t have to drag loads of laundry up and down the stairs. However, if you do your laundry at night, you might prefer it farther away from your sleeping area. This one comes down to personal preference. But you definitely want to pay some attention to it!

7. Bedrooms Location

The location of the bedrooms matters a lot. Sleep is important, as we need it to function. Thus, you want your bedroom located somewhere quiet. If you live near a busy road, you’ll want your room as far away from it as possible. Also, is good to make sure you don’t share a wall with the main living space.

8. Kitchen Convenience

There are many things to consider when designing your home kitchen layout. Ideally, it is always nice to merge the dining room with the kitchen as the cooking time does not need to be done in isolation, while at the same time you are close to the table for carrying the food. Open plan houses are great for this. It would also be good to have the kitchen near the main entrance, as this will make the process of transporting supermarket shopping hassle-free. Therefore, a kitchen next to the garage, to the front and back entrance and the main living room is the best choice.

9. Keep your Priorities in Check

Don’t let someone tell you what you need – especially if it’s adding to your cost. While you should pay attention to an expert’s advice, also doing your own research is highly advised. You know you and your family’s needs best. You know more than anyone else what you will need in the years to come. You know your lifestyle, your activities, your sleep schedules, and preferences. Voice them and your priorities! Write down and layout what you want before booking that appointment with your builder. If they recommend differently, revisit the drawing board and do your research while taking into account your lifestyle. Make the priorities list ahead of time and make sure to assess how realistic it is. Is it within your budget? Is it a must-have?

10. Choose the right constructor

Choosing the right constructor makes all the difference. You want someone you can get along with and communicate your wants and needs with. Arrange more than one appointment – see if they’re a good fit. Again, do your research. Find out their credentials. Check up on their reviews. What have past clients said about them? It can help you determine if they are right for you. Plus, you likely plan on having your home for many years. Choosing an experienced builder can help avoid things going wrong οr even if they find obstacles on the way, they will likely know how to handle it and proceed.

11. Determine Delays

Many people are stressed when their construction is delayed. However, in reality it is quite common, as exogenous factors can play a role. For example, bad weather can delay construction. Ordering parts and components can cause delays. Even the lack of licenses or the delay in issuing them can play a role. That’s why it would be good to determine any delays in advance, so if things go smoothly without delay, it will be a pleasant surprise for you!

12. Double-check Things with Your Constructor

Don’t waste time second-guessing things. Instead, just ask! Did you tell your homebuilder about how you want the bathroom slightly moved? Double-check. Remember, you have to live in this home for years to come – make sure it is the way you want it to be! Communication is key. Don’t assume. When you assume, that’s where problems and disagreements happen.

These are the top twelve points to consider when building a new home. Do your research ahead of time. Thwart problems before they happen.

For more info on building your new home, you may contact us at 70 000 227. Our team here in M.T. Metal Frame Houses is always more than happy to assist you and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Interested in Steel Framed Buildings? Enquire now!