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Mistakes to Avoid When Building a New Home

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September 6 Residential, Custom Home Building Tips

Knowing commonly made mistakes to avoid when building a new home can help you better prepare for the custom home building process. At Hyline Construction, we know how stressful building a new home can be. That is why every one of our residential custom homes are built with genuine, client focused, commitment. From inception to completion, our Design Build process provides clients with an all-inclusive home building experience. Every finished home is delivered on time, on budget and is tailored to your specific style and needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building a New Home

Some of the most common mistakes to avoid when building a new home include:

1. Hiring the Builder with the Cheapest Quote and the Shortest Timeline

One of the biggest mistakes anyone can make when building a custom home is not hiring a reputable builder to manage the job. While choosing a builder that promises a cheaper quote or quicker turn around time may seem like the more attractive option, chances are there will end up being problems with your custom home that will result in your spending more money and time in the long run. Reputable builders quote conservatively and honestly, so you know exactly what to expect. They know the parameters of City By-laws and have long standing relationships with City officials, making the permitting and inspection processes much more seamless. Reputable builders have qualified trades to work on your project and have the skills and experience to navigate challenges. Qualified contractors will not try to skimp on cost, quality or time but will professionally manage your schedule and budget to turn your dream home into reality in the safest way possible.

2. Building a Home That Does Not Fit Your Needs

In some cases, homeowners can get carried away with building a custom home that looks beautiful and offers a wide range of amenities but does not fit their exact needs. Just because you are moving into your dream home, you are likely not going to change the way you like to live. A custom home should be designed to reflect your specific lifestyle. Focus on the layout during the design process. It’s always a good idea to have a complete furniture plan drawn up so you can see how everything will fit. Imagine walking through the home; your family living in its spaces. Think about what you are going to do with each space and select only the features that you and your family need.

3. Putting Cost Before Quality

While there is no harm in trying to save money where you can, it is important to ensure that you are not choosing design finishes and fixtures based on price alone. Using low-quality products may save you money to begin with but can easily lead to high repair and maintenance costs down the road. They can also work against you if/when ever you try to sell the home in this buyer-savvy market. Your custom home is a big investment that would not benefit from compromising the finished effect in order to save a small percentage of the overall cost. Have a conversation with your Builder and Designer up front. Strategize “high on design, low on cost” design tactics. Budget intelligently as a team but know when to spend where it counts too.

4. Not Having a Clear Written Agreement

Both you and your contractor should know exactly what the process of building your new home looks like from start to finish. Having a contract outlines specific roles, clarifies expectations and can help resolve any potential issues that may arise along the way. Every reputable custom home builder will offer a clear and detailed contract, comprised to look out for the best interests of both parties.

If you would like to discuss your project, or are interested in our custom building services for residential or commercial properties, please contact Hyline Construction at 604-889-5242 or by filling out a contact form on our website.