Building a home is the dream for many first time home buyers. But the actual process can be frustrating and tedious without any planning or preparation. Take a few steps to prepare and you can make sure construction goes smoothly and you end up with a great home.
The following are five tips to help you build your first home.
1. Location is Key: When building a home, the structure and floor plans are up to you. Picking the right location is the biggest decision to be made at the outset. If you work in the city, access to public transportation or distance from the CBD should be a prime consideration. However, if you’re willing to drive slightly further, you can often get a better value on land.
Transportation is fundamental, but the community matters too. Access to good schools, parks, shops, and other amenities is ideal. For those looking for a deal, proper research can reveal up-and coming neighbourhoods that are priced well now yet have good potential to grow in the future.
Understanding the property market and paying attention to the news to learn about new roads, railways or other major developments can help buyers spot these kinds of neighborhoods.
2. Orient Correctly: When deciding on a floorplan, the orientation of your home matters. The direction and layout of your home affects which rooms get sunlight during the day.
The South side of the house will be the coolest and is suitable for bedrooms. The East side of the house will get sun in the morning and is suited for kitchens and dining rooms. The North side of the house will get daylight sun and is great for family rooms and living rooms. Lastly, the West side of the house will face heat from afternoon sun and is best suited for non-living rooms such as for the laundry, bathrooms, or garages.
Orientation is an often an overlooked but important detail when building your new home.
3. Nail Down the Plan Before Building: Changing orders during construction can cost a great deal in terms of both money and time. It’s in your best interest to nail down as much as you can before building starts. Details and finishes can be changed later without too much expense but make sure that the major decisions have been thought over and finalised before it becomes very costly to change your mind.
Constructing a home is an investment in money and time. Doing your due diligence and understanding what you want before signing the contract will pay off dividends in the end.
4. Budget Well: Planning and sticking to a budget is key to building a home that becomes a financial asset. All first home buyers should take advantage of government financial grants and concessions, such as the generous $10,000 First Home Owners Grant for new homes as well as savings on stamp duty.
Financing should be arranged to suit your current financial situation while allowing for flexibility in the future. Reading your contract carefully and communicating well with your builder will ensure you’re paying for what you want instead of finding out later that granite benchtop you’ve had your heart set on is a costly extra.
5. Choose the Right Builder: Perhaps the most important factor in the whole home building process is the builder. As a first time home buyer you want to go with someone who understands your situation but has the experience and skills to deliver a quality home.
When hiring a builder, always do a background check. Look into past homes they’ve built, speak with previous owners, and make sure the builder is registered and certified. Check out their display homes so you know what you’ll be getting, but also clarify what is included and what is an extra. A good builder will have a wealth of experience to ensure a smooth construction process with a quality end product.
Building a new home is an adventure but also an undertaking. Take your time to plan things out and work with a reputable home builder. If you have any questions about building a new home, be sure to contact one of First Home Owner’s Centre’s friendly representatives
Source: First Home Center Picture Credits: Kevin Maxwell Blog