There are a fair number of things to keep in mind when building a house — even more if it’s a custom build. Some of these are:
- Builder’s reputation
The most important part of the job is finding a builder you can trust. You don’t always want a builder who is less expensive because the finished product will not be up to par. Research potential builders, check that they are licensed, and ask for testimonials. Once you’ve found a trustworthy builder, run through the entire construction process with them so you know what to expect.
- Permits
Legally, you are required to secure the proper permits before you can start building. These include planning and building permits that certify every aspect of the build complies with local regulations. A good contractor can help secure the permits you need ®so the process flows smoothly.
- Budget
Aside from the price of land and cost of building, be aware of other costs involved in constructing your house. This includes utilities, furnishing, mortgages, etc. It’s not enough to have the money to build the house; you must take all the other expenses (and contingencies) into account as well.
- Timeframe
Work with your contractors to develop an accurate timeframe for building. You want ample time to customize every aspect of your home to your preference. You can also give yourself a safety net in case of delays so that progress isn’t delayed.
- Land
Pay attention to the land on which you expect to build your house. Depending on its zoning, there may be additional costs to comply with local regulations. The land can provide obstacles or opportunities (such as if it is sloped and needs excavation or if you want to develop the landscape).
- Space
Take the time to find out how to utilize the space inside your home. (This might necessitate meetings with your designer). For example, consider adding more windows and widening your hallways to make the house feel more spacious.
- Extra materials
Arrange with the builders for extra materials like tiles, wallpaper, bricks, etc. This will give you a ready supply of matching materials when your house needs repairs. They also likely qualify for a professional discount, which will save you on later replacements.
- Resale value
When building your home, consider what potential buyers might find enticing. For example, ground floor bedrooms or a well-outfitted kitchen can increase property value and attract buyers if you ever choose to sell.
To make all this work easier, hire a contractor to help with every aspect of design and construction. If you reside in the Greater Toronto Area, get in touch with V-CAN Construction Inc. at (647) 560-4955. We can help every step of the way when you build your home.