Building a custom home is an exciting and fulfilling endeavor, but it can also be a bit stressful and financially demanding. While most of us won’t build numerous homes in our lifetime, there’s a way to navigate the process with ease and confidence.
Let’s explore how to begin building your dream home step by step so you can enjoy the journey instead of feeling overwhelmed.
Start Building Your Dream Custom Home
Step 1: Aligning Your Priorities
Starting the process with a clear understanding of your priorities is crucial. This might sound straightforward, but many families find themselves making decisions on the go. Avoid this by gathering everyone who will be living in the house and creating a list of each room’s must-haves.
Creating Your Wishlist: Room by Room
Take the time to envision each room and list down the features, elements, and functionalities you want. From the kitchen to the bedrooms and even the outdoor spaces, jot down everything you desire.
Prioritizing Your Wishlist
After compiling your individual room wishlists, sit down as a group and discuss each item. Assign a priority level to each element. This exercise helps everyone understand what matters most to each other and where there might be differences.
Settling Conflicts and Compromises
Having varying priorities is natural, but it’s important to find common ground. If you both prioritize different things in the kitchen, for example, consider compromising on some elements while ensuring that the highest-priority items are retained.
Step 2: Budgeting Wisely
Setting your budget isn’t just about considering the cost per square foot and land expenses. There are additional costs that might not be covered by your construction mortgage. These include furnishings, landscaping, window coverings, and more.
Understanding Your Budget Breakdown
Break your budget into three categories: build budget, furnishing budget, and finishings budget. This breakdown provides a comprehensive view of the expenses involved.
- Build Budget: Determine the maximum amount you’re willing to spend on construction, land, and down payment. Consider customization levels and consult builders for estimated costs per square foot.
- Furnishing Budget: Take into account the cost of new furniture that complements your home’s design and style. Consider what you already have and what needs to be replaced or added.
- Finishings Budget: Allocate funds for outdoor features like landscaping, fencing, decking, and driveway. These costs can add up quickly, so it’s essential to plan for them.
Considering Hidden Costs
Remember that some costs won’t be obvious at first glance, such as internet wiring, media setup, and potential upgrade expenses that aren’t covered by your construction mortgage.
Step 3: Assembling Your Dream Team
Building your home requires a team of experts. Here’s who you’ll need:
Architect: Designing Your Vision
If you’re designing a custom home in Myrtle Beach, work with an architect to create detailed plans. They’ll take your priorities and wishlist into account while ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Designer: Refining Your Vision
Even if you have design preferences, hiring a designer or decorator is invaluable. They help with detailed planning, renderings, and decision-making throughout the project.
Builder: The Construction Mastermind
Find a reputable builder like Dawol Homes who values detailed planning and open communication. Avoid the cheapest option, as hidden costs can arise later. A trustworthy builder ensures the project runs smoothly.
Realtor: Navigating Land and Sale
A realtor is essential for land purchase and selling your current home. Their expertise helps you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
Structural Engineer: Ensuring Stability
Your home builder usually has a trusted engineer they work with, ensuring the structural integrity of your home. Their expertise prevents structural issues down the line.
Other Trades: Coordinating Efforts
Consult your custom home builder in Myrtle Beach before involving friends or family in trade work. While their expertise is valuable, coordination and timing are essential to prevent delays and penalties.
Landscaper: Crafting Outdoor Spaces
Although needed toward the project’s end, involving a landscaper early helps plan and budget accurately. They’ll help transform your property into a beautiful and functional outdoor oasis.
Starting your journey in new home construction doesn’t have to be intimidating. Begin by clarifying your priorities, setting realistic budgets, and gathering your dream team. Remember, building a house is a collaborative effort, and with the right experts by your side, you can navigate the process confidently and create the home you’ve always envisioned.
Call Dawol Homes now and let our team help build your dream home.
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Dawol Homes
9404 Hwy 17 Bypass,
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 294-2859
Dawol Homes Sales Office
3100 Dick Pond Rd # E
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-294-2859
We build homes in: Cypress River Plantation, Waterway Palms, Waterbridge, Murrells Inlet, Collins Creek, Bellwood Landing, Carolina Forest, Plantation Lakes, North Myrtle Beach, Socastee, Surfside Beach, Pawleys Island, Litchfield Plantation