The prospect of building a home is enough to give any budding homeowner pause. Each step in the process is overwhelming at best, and the amount of detail that goes into constructing a house is vast.

If you’re grappling with the complexities of building a home, here are some considerations to mull over that’ll help streamline the undertaking.


1. Know Your Finances

Before anything else, you need a firm understanding of what you can afford. Establishing a budget is a prerequisite to building a home, and your efforts will be wasted without setting sensible financial parameters.

Remember: Projects can go 10 or 15% over budget, so adjust your expectations and ensure the overall costs are affordable.

Should you need assistance, work with a bank on getting approved for a loan. The banking institution you partner with will provide an outline detailing your financial responsibilities.


2. Choose a Reliable Builder

If you’re not looking to brave this venture alone, consider enlisting help from new home builders.

Finding a company that you can trust is critical. You want to make sure they will listen to and value your wants and needs.

Anything less than enthusiastic cooperation should be regarded as a red flag.

After all, the professionals you hire will be primarily responsible for the construction of your future abode.

In the hopes of finding a reputable home builder, consult the internet for online reviews and testimonials.

Also, ask friends — word of mouth referrals go a long way.


3. Consider Your Style Preferences

Building a home hinges entirely on personal preference, so it’s important to consider every detail for your dream home.

Envision your likes and dislikes and don’t shy away from voicing your opinion when need be.

Should it be French Colonial or a Cape Cod? Should the home have brick or wood siding?

Should it be one or two stories? Should it have a deck or a concrete patio?

Consider everything from the home’s architecture to its features and appearance, and make sure the builder’s on board to make this dream become a reality.


4. Prepare for Obstacles

The only sure thing about home building is that you can never be too sure. Stumbling blocks will inevitably arise, and when they occur, it’s essential that you keep your anxieties in check.

Otherwise, you’re liable to trigger an onslaught of adverse emotions.

Today’s Homeowner Tips

Building a new home isn’t for the faint of heart, and if you want to make it out of this endeavor unscathed, it’s best to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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