It’s safe to say that building your own home has become increasingly popular in recent years. According to the National Association of Home Builders, single-family home construction was up by 10% year over year in November 2020, and it’s not hard to see why.
With the opportunity to get every room and furnishing you’ve ever dreamed of, there’s no reason not to build a house yourself…unless, of course, you consider the difficulty of the initial process!
From considering your needs to finding the right team, working to build a house can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, it’s not quite as hard as it sounds—and following a few tips on the front end, before you begin the actual build, can help you start off on the right foot. Here’s what to know as you weigh your options.
Decide What You Need
More than likely, you’ve already put some thought into what you want to get out of building a house. However, now is the time to consider your priorities in detail, and you’ll also want to ensure you’re on the same page as anyone else who will be living in the house.
Figure out how many rooms you’ll need and what you want in them, and consider the types of materials you’ll want to use. Noting these items in terms of priority now can help you make informed decisions as you build your new home later.
Consider Your Finances
Before you get too far into actually building a home, it’s important to figure out how you’ll pay for it. Most home builders opt to take out a construction loan, though you’ll need to offer details about your timeframe and budget to a prospective lender.
However, it’s worth noting that a construction loan won’t cover everything, including things like landscaping, driveways, and furnishing. As a result, you’ll want to take time to outline your budgets for the initial build, all furnishings, and finishing touches like landscaping and fencing. Make sure you stick to this budget as you go, as veering into more expensive territory is one of the most common mistakes to avoid when building a home!
Find Your Lot
At this point, start looking into lots in the area where you want to build. Finding the right lot can take time, and it’s often helpful to work with an expert realtor who can help you consider factors like drainage and building codes.
Partner With the Right Team
At this point, you’ll want to find the right home builder for your needs, and you may also want to hire an architect and interior designer if you’re not skilled in those areas.
Be sure to check out online reviews, ask for referrals, and get quotes from each person before you hire. Don’t rush the process of finding the right team for the job! The right experts will help you navigate the ins and outs of each decision, ensuring that you end up with the house of your dreams.
Build a House You’ve Always Dreamed Of
At the end of the day, taking the opportunity to build a house offers you the perfect blank slate, one that makes it easy to get exactly what you want for your long-term comfort. No matter where you’re building or what kind of home you’re looking for, the tips above make a great jumping-off point as you work toward the actual construction process. Start doing your research today to decide whether building your own home is the right choice for your household!
Want more helpful home and real estate tips to help you make the most of your property? Be sure to take a look at our other content for guides on upkeep, DIY, and other home improvement work.