Building a home is a big investment in both time and money, so finding ways of cutting both is good news for anyone embarking on a home build project and wanting some sound economic advice. Here are some top tips for getting the most out of your new home build.
- Savings can start with the materials. You could choose to buy cheap by that won’t necessary cut cost in the long run if you end up having to buy twice. To save money on materials choose low-maintenance, easy to source and fit building products that will pay for themselves with quicker build times and a more durable structure
- Consider prefabricated to cut building time and costs. You can significantly cut a metal building cost by having it designed and cut off site and built onsite by professionals. This could be a very cost-effective way of adding several buildings in one go to your land
- If you want a more rustic look consider collecting salvaged materials such as old wood, bricks and even complete structures such as doors and window frames to add interesting features to your finished home
- Learn when to scrimp and when to splurge. There are some elements of your build that you won’t want to cut costs on such as the structural and safety elements. Leave scrimping then to the elements you can definitely live without
- Keep building in line with the street. Having the biggest and most high tech house in the neighborhood might appeal to your ego but it will damage its resale value so keep your design and construction in keeping with the neighbors
- Use only certified contractors and professionals. Whilst you will pay more for their expertise in the short term you could dearly pay later for shoddy workmanship if you don’t call in the professionals
- Try to keep changes to a minimum. Once you have your agreed design and build method signed off keep changes to a minimum to avoid costly change orders as well as adding frustrating build delays to your schedule
- Prepare for upgrades at a later date. If your budget is tight during the build lay the foundations for upgrades at a later date. You could use the cheaper option of vinyl instead of hardwood flooring for example and when you’re ready lay hardwood or ceramic tiles directly on top of the vinyl base
- Choose stock built to avoid custom design charges. Everyone wants a unique home but this can be achieved by adding unique fixtures and fittings post-build as opposed to laying out huge costs for custom designed blueprints
- Consider how much space you actually need. It is easy to get carried away if you have a large plot of land to fill but a bigger build costs more in terms of money and time. Work out exactly how much space your family needs and stick to it in the design and build. You can always add an extension at a later date as your family grows
