Choices and Decisions
From buying plans to choosing upgrades — make informed decisions for your new home.
Buying From Plans and Model Homes
🏗️ Careful Consideration
When you buy an innovative home, you will most likely make a decision based on the builder’s plans or 2D and 3D model homes, or a combination of the two. This requires careful thought and focus.
🔑 Two Keys to Success
First: Make sure you’re dealing with a professional home builder who answers your questions thoroughly, doesn’t push you and is clearly interested in helping you find the best home.
Second: Don’t rush. Take time to consider all aspects and ask millions of queries. The more information you have, the easier it will be to eliminate uncertainty.
Construction Quality
🔍 Inspect the Model
Pay close attention to the overall quality of builders’ model homes, from design style and construction to finishing touches. It provides a clear indication of what you can expect when you buy from the company.
📋 Check Specifications
Ask for a list of specifications — construction materials, electrical, mechanical, finishing materials, and plumbing systems. Check that manufacturers are reputable with solid product guarantees.
Floor Plans
📐 Explore Your Options
Most home builders offer new home styles, sizes, floor plans, and prices. Bring your “list of needs and wants” to the sales office to help the seller zero in on the home that’s best for you.
🏠 Imagine Living There
When you find a plan you like, imagine living in it. How will it help your family’s daily routine? Will it be suitable for special activities? Can it be adapted to future needs? Often builders can reconfigure interior spaces.
📏 Room Size Matters
Rooms that look spacious on paper can be very cramped once furniture is moved inside. Know the measurements of your furniture to determine if rooms are the right size. Use cut-outs to test furniture placement on a printed house plan.
💻 Virtual Visualization
Increasingly, builders use computer graphics — 2D/3D floor plans and animated drawings. A virtual show home can be available 24/7. Ask if these sales aids are available or check on our builder’s website.
Features, Upgrades, and Options
One of the unique aspects of buying a brand new dream home is that you get to decide the features and finishing touches you want.
✅ Standard Inclusions
A new home comes complete with standard features included in the original price. These vary from one builder to another. The quality of today’s standard products is excellent, offering great value for money.
For many standard items, buyers are offered options that will not affect the purchase price, such as cabinet style and flooring colors. Model homes often include upgrades — always ask what’s standard.
⬆️ Upgrades and Options
Most builders offer a full range of upgrades — high-quality products such as thick carpeting, premium countertops, or full exterior brick cladding. The builder typically credits the cost of the standard item, so the additional cost is limited to the difference.
✨ Extras
Many builders encourage you to consider features and finishing touches that can add value, enjoyment, and convenience. These are considered extras, and the cost will be added to the price of the home.
Making the Right Choices
How to choose features and finishes right for your budget and lifestyle
- Find out exactly what standard features are included in the home’s base price and how many standard options the builder offers.
- Review your home-buying budget so you know how much you are comfortable spending.
- Choose the upgrades and extras that matter most and fit your budget. Construction items like larger windows and doors are least expensive when done during initial building.
- Large building companies may have a separate design center with product samples and trained specialists to assist you.
- Some builders have relationships with manufacturers — appointments are made for you to visit showrooms and make selections directly.
- Consider your family’s needs and match selections with your lifestyle (e.g., white cupboards may not suit a house full of children).
- Plan for long-term appeal — keep “big ticket items” neutral and add color through easily changeable items.
- Ask about the builder’s most popular features and take your time. You’ll live with your choices for a long time.