Building your own home might sound like a dream come true (hello, custom everything!), but let’s be real, it’s also a huge project. Whether you’re designing your future mansion or a cozy little cottage, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some tips to help you tackle the process without losing your sanity or your wallet.
Start With a Plan, Not a Pinterest Board
We get it. Pinterest is like crack for home design junkies, and scrolling through pictures of dreamy kitchens and spa-like bathrooms is so much fun. But before you get lost in the black hole of inspiration, focus on the essentials. How many bedrooms do you need? What’s your ideal layout? And, oh yeah, what’s your budget?
Sketch out a rough idea of what you want, then work with an architect or designer to make sure your plans are actually doable. (Sorry, that 20-foot waterfall in your living room might not make the cut.)
Know Your Costs and Then Add 20%
Speaking of budgets, let’s talk about money. Building a home isn’t cheap, and costs can creep up fast, like, really fast. Material prices, labor costs, permits… it all adds up. Once you’ve got a ballpark number in mind, add an extra 20% for unexpected expenses. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.
Bonus tip: Invest in energy-efficient windows and doors from the start. They might be pricier upfront, but they’ll save you loads on heating and cooling bills down the road.
Trends vs. Timeless: What Should You Pick?
Here’s the deal, trendy is fun, but timeless lasts longer. If you’re obsessed with the latest TikTok kitchen craze (neon backsplashes, anyone?), think twice before committing. Instead, choose a classic base design and sprinkle in some trendy elements that are easy to swap out, like light fixtures or paint colors.
Fun fact: A new home renovation study by Renewal by Andersen revealed that younger generations are more likely to prioritize aesthetic updates over structural improvements. The takeaway? Balance your dream design with practical upgrades to keep your home stylish and sturdy.
Don’t DIY Everything (Unless You Really Know What You’re Doing)
We love a good DIY moment, but building your own home isn’t the time to pretend you’re a pro. Sure, you can probably handle some painting or assembling furniture, but leave the big stuff like plumbing and electrical work to the experts. Trying to DIY these things can cost you big time if (or when) something goes wrong.
That said, if you do want to save money, consider tackling smaller projects like landscaping, installing hardware, or even tiling a backsplash (YouTube tutorials for the win!).
Be Patient and Stay Flexible
Here’s a harsh reality, but building a home almost never goes exactly as planned. Delays happen, permits get held up, and some materials might be back-ordered for months. It’s frustrating, but it’s also part of the process.
The key is to stay flexible and roll with the punches. Keep your end goal in mind—a home that’s yours—and remember that the stress is temporary, but your dream home will (hopefully) last a lifetime.
