Whether you’re planning to build a small cottage or a large house, there are some things you should take into consideration before you begin the process. These steps will help you turn your dream into reality and ensure you don’t make any costly mistakes along the way.
Step #1: Lifestyle Overview
Your lifestyle is a big factor in designing your dream home, so take the time to think about how you’ll use each room in your new home. Does it primarily serve as a place for relaxation, or is it more of an entertainment space? You may also want to include your family’s specific needs, like how many bedrooms you need and where the dining room is located.
Then, put that information in a lifestyle description and share it with your architect so they can get an idea of how you’ll use the space and what you need in terms of storage.
You should also include your goals for how you want your home to function and if you plan to sell it in the future. This can help your architect design a home that will be attractive to future homeowners and increase the home’s resale value.
Step #2: Budget & Financing
The first step in designing your dream home is to set an accurate budget. This is important because it will impact every decision you make, from which fixtures you choose to how much you spend on construction materials and labor. It’s a good idea to talk to an independent financial advisor before you start building your home so you can create a realistic budget that will suit your needs and meet your long-term goals.
Once you have your budget in hand, it’s time to find a Boise custom home builder and set up a construction timeline for the project. During this period, you should be in regular communication with your builder, making sure they are staying on schedule and sticking to the agreed-upon budget.
Next, you’ll need to decide on a style for your new home. This can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a clear picture of what you want. You’ll want to have some ideas in mind, such as traditional or modern, but don’t be afraid to get creative and explore your options.
When choosing a style, you’ll also want to look at the current design trends for your area. This will give you a good idea of how other homes in your neighborhood have been designed and can help you choose a trend that will look great and fit your budget.
During this stage of the building process, you’ll need to keep track of expenses and invoices so you can ensure the builder is spending within your budget. This can be done by requesting copies of your invoices and by following up on any spending that’s over your budget.
Once your project is underway, it’s also a good idea to check with your architect regularly to make sure that everything is still on track and that you’re happy with the design. Having an updated design brief will also make it easier to communicate with your architect.