You’ve chosen your builder, floor plan and homesite. What’s next? A visit to your builder’s design center where you will be presented with a dizzying array of upgrades. Some upgrades are worth the extra cost as they will add to the value of your home. Which ones? Here are 10 you’ll love:
Focus on the Kitchen
If your upgrade budget is limited, focus on the kitchen. Your family will be spending a lot of time there. If you decide to sell your home, the kitchen is the first thing prospective buyers will look at. Kitchen cabinets should be upgraded as it is time-consuming and expensive to remodel. Opt for taller cabinets that reach to the ceiling for more storage and a finished look. Under-cabinet lighting helps when you want a midnight snack. If an island does not come standard with your home, add it.
Opt for Wood Floors
With most new homes, tile and carpet are standard. Wood floors are easier to keep clean. They add warmth to any room. It’s better to have your builder install them when your home is being built. Doing it afterward often costs as much as upgrading. Homes with wood floors are considered more desirable by homebuyers.
Beautiful Master Baths
Many builders offer alternate master baths. Some include the tub, others remove it. Choose based on your needs. If you are older and plan to age in place, you might remove the tub and extend the shower for ease of use. Tubs and showers are almost impossible to rip out later. If you want a jacuzzi tub or extra shower heads, do it now. Radiant floor heating is a nice-to-have option that needs to be done before tile is installed. If you want your toes warm on winter days, have your builder install it.
Smart Home Technology
Most new homes come with home automation packages including smart thermostats, a front door lock, smart lights and a garage door opener. You can upgrade the package at the design center. Add a video doorbell so you can see who is knocking. Did you know there are smart toilets? These can save you money on your water bill and some even clean themselves. Smart shades can be raised and lowered remotely from your smart phone or tablet.
Think About Electricity
Anything electrical should be done while your home is being built. Add extra outlets to simplify your life. Outlets that exist directly behind your wall-mounted television hide unsightly cords. USB outlets cut out the need for charging stations. Add a back-up generator to keep the lights on.
Energy Efficient Options
Balmoral builders are committed to building “green,” environmentally friendly homes. However, you can upgrade the insulation, add dual-pane windows and more. If offered, consider adding solar panels and put a charging station for electric vehicles in the garage.
Extend Your Patio
If you plan to entertain alfresco, extend your patio. A larger patio can create dining and entertaining spaces. It’s also easier to do it when your house is being built. Nice touches include outdoor kitchens and fireplaces. If you don’t like the look of concrete, your builder often has other choices such as high-quality tile.
Add Storage
You can never have too much storage. Builders can add cabinets and shelves to utility rooms and garages. Ask about built-in shelves and cabinets for the media room, home office and family room. See if you can add an extra closet or turn a regular closet into a walk-in one. Some builders can add extra storage in the attic.
Great Garages
Adding garage bays or hobby areas to the garage is a regularly offered option. Take your builder up on it. You can use the extra square footage for a workshop, office or storage area. When junior gets his license, he won’t be parking on the driveway.
The post 10 Upgrades Worth the Money appeared first on Balmoral.