Beginning a new home construction project is perhaps the most thrilling activity in one’s life. This is an opportunity to construct your ideal home, tailored to your specifications. With approximately 1.49 million new homes built annually in the U.S, it’s evident that many people are starting on this rewarding but challenging task.
But, customizing your own house is not a cookie-cutter procedure. For aspiring home improvement contractors, the overwhelming choices of color schemes and selecting the right specialists can be exhausting. This guide will give you the important steps to plan, implement, and finish your home construction project in the most efficient way possible.
Planning and Preparation
Set Your Budget
Cost estimation is the most important element in starting a construction project. The price range determines everything from the type of materials to be used to the construction features.
• Estimate building expenses: Find out the average price of construction in your state or locality. The average building price in the United States ranges between $200 to $300 per square foot.
• Add relief allowances: It’s best practice to have a 10-15% allowance for any other unexpected costs.
Effective and strategic planning will help in making informed choices during the entire construction procedure.
Finding The Ideal Location
The location of your home determines the blueprint of your living experience. Whether it’s a busy city or a country suburb, consider things like distance to schools, places of work, health care facilities and shopping centers. Also investigate the zoning laws of the area as well as the environmental conditions because these factors would affect your build.
Designing Functional Spaces
Discuss the layout and design of your house with an architect or use home design tools to create a model of the house. Consider what you and your family would require in the future and how you lead your life now. For instance, do wish to have a reading nook? An open concept kitchen? Early planning avoids problems later when building.
Procurement Of Services
Finding A Competent Architect
Architects are a crucial part of the homebuilding process because they take your ideas and create a design that is both useful and practical. Search for skilled specialists that focus on residential work and do not shy away from asking for references or portfolios because they will come in handy.
Finding A Contractor
This will be the person you will work with for the duration of the construction. It’s advisable to ask the following questions during the interview to ensure you choose the right candidate:
• Is the contractor registered and does he or she have an insurance cover?
• Can he or she offer a cost estimate as well as an overall time frame?
• Does he or she have a good reputation when it comes to similar works?
You can also use word of mouth from family and friends in your search for a dependable contractor.
Put Your Team Together
Typically, construction projects have a much larger scope and may require other professionals, like interior decorators, civil engineers, and other particular specialists (such as electricians and plumbers). Ensure that all team members have an understanding of the goals and share ideas frequently.
Construction Phase
Construction of The Foundation
As soon as the team is set, work on the foundation can begin like any other step of construction. This step is fundamental to the success of the project in terms of having a stable home. Key activities include digging, pouring concrete, and waterproofing.
Framing the Structure
This stage is about constructing the body of the house. The walls, floors, and the roofs are erected using wooden or steel beams at this stage. Ensure you take note of this step because it will signal to you the approximate size and shape of the house.
Utilities and Systems
At this point, Plumbing and electrical engineers come to the forefront to complete the wiring, piping, and hydronic or central air conditioning work. Make sure all of the components are up to the proper standards and in working order so as to not incur expensive repairs later on.
This too is the point when solar panel and smart-home system adjustments towards better energy efficiency need to be made.
Interior Design and Finishing Touches
Flooring and Walls
The initial step in the process is to decide on the type of of flooring material to go for which could be hardwood, tile or carpet, and also the color of the walls. Choose an overarching color which will help in giving the home a unified look in the longrun.
Kitchen and Bathroom Choices
These two areas predominantly stand out in any housing structure. It is recommended to use quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances because of their beauty and practicality. These variables also dictate the quality of the fixtures and finishes used in the area.
Adding Personality
This is the fun part! Custom cabinetry, pieces of art, light fixtures and furnishings can now be included to change the space to reflect personal style.
Think About Outdoor Spaces
Landscaping as well as outdoor features should be considered. With a beautiful lawn and a deck in the backyard, the ability of the house to attract potential clients increases and improves its value.
Your Future, Built to Last
Building your dream house is a process that comes with its own challenges and gratification. If a person possesses the adequate amount of foresight, the appropriate team, and a critical eye for detail, almost any vision is possible.
Putting bricks and mortar together is just the first step. Homes need caring and imagination poured into them so the attention can be shifted to the inner parts of the house.
Reach out today and let us help you kick-start your new Construction project. And we will make this project not only the best Investment long term, but also an unbelievable experience.