Choosing from the many builder upgrades available does not have to be overwhelming.
Start prioritizing your wants and needs by learning what upgrades are difficult and costly to make after your home is built versus upgrades that can be easily added later.
Much of the cost of builder upgrades can be added into your mortgage, costing you a small amount each month, versus a lump sum after move in. Here's what we recommend to upgrade before moving in.
1. Lot
Location, location, location! You can’t change the location of your home once you’ve built it.
If you’re considering a lot that backs up to a park, a corner lot or an oversized homesite, make that investment now.
2. Structure
Changes to your home’s structure are much more costly and difficult to make once your home is built. A study, extra bathroom, back patio, entertainment space, extra garage area or raised ceilings are all wise choices.
3. Flooring
Flooring can be a large expense and you may not have thousands to invest in upgrading your floors after move-in. When you consider the resale value that wood floors bring, it can be a smart upgrade that you’ll want to do now.
4. Kitchen Island
If you decide to add a larger kitchen island later, the cost and mess involved can be substantial. Since islands are a central gathering point in any home, consider adding that additional counter space and storage upfront.
5. Brick or Stone Exterior
If you would like to add decorative brick or stone, it’s a good idea to do this with a builder. It’s often difficult and expensive to upgrade exterior materials afterward.
6. Extra Outlets
Consider adding extra outlets in the kitchen, desk areas or anywhere you plan to place lamps. This will save the expense of hiring an electrician down the road.
7. Wiring for Surround Sound or Connectivity
Wiring is typically difficult to install after construction, as it usually requires opening up walls. This is much easier to do before move-in.
8. Ceiling Fans
These can be difficult to install on your own, especially in areas with high ceilings.
9. Fireplace
A fireplace is much easier to have the builder install rather than contract someone to do it later.
10. Trim and Moldings
Removing trim, replacing it, caulking, painting -- upgrading trim and molding is time-consuming and messy. It's the last thing on our list that we recommend doing upfront.
At Brightland Homes, we believe happiness starts at home, and we’re here to help you find the perfect house for you and your family. Fill out the form below today, and we'll get started.
