Selecting Upgrades In A Newly Built Home

House Builders

When looking to purchase a new home, your search might often start by driving around to look at newly built model homes in an area you are interested in purchasing in. Builders often use a selling technique to get interested buyers into the model which includes a banner or billboard of some sort which advertises, “Homes starting in the...” followed by some unbelievably affordable price for what the builder is constructing. While the sign isn’t lying, and the Builder is probably selling units at that price, keep in mind this price may not cover all of the things you see in the model. Often, the model home in a new construction development is there to show the potential of what could be created. Features such as stainless steel appliances, crown molding, modern water faucets, granite counter tops, fireplaces and window coverings are all often in the category builders consider “upgrades” When builders start their plans for constructing a new development, each unit or layout is drawn up at a basic level—showing the minimum things the builder will put into the new home at the base price (this is the base unit the billboard is probably advertising at that unbelievably low price that was displayed on the advertisement.)

When someone signs a contract to purchase a new home in one of these subdivisions, there will come a point where the homebuyers and the builders will sit down together to select what features the homebuyers want to leave at the base included price, and which they want to upgrade.

While it may be tempting to leave everything at the Builders basic package, the following suggestions are several things think about when selecting upgrades.

Value of Investment

While the cheapest grade of carpet or linoleum may suit your immediate needs, consider the future. Inexpensive carpet may tear or stain easily if you have children or pets in your home. Whether you plan on living in the house for the rest of your life, or reselling in a few years, carpet and linoleum damage much easier and will need cleaning and or replacement depending on the wear and tear.

Permanence of Move

Take into consideration the duration your stay at the new home will last. If you plan on spending five or more years at this location, you may want to think about making a few upgrades. For instance if you have a passion for cooking or are an avid dinner party host, even a few simple upgrades in the kitchen and dining room area may make your time in the home more enjoyable.