New Houses
Although new houses offer a number of benefits over existing ones, they can lack individuality and character. Here are some tips to give your new house more character.
One of the first questions perspective home buyers ask themselves is, Do I want a new or existing home? The answer often depends on the buyer's goals, though new houses offer a number of benefits. Up-to-date appliances and wiring not only make life more convenient, but also increase a home's safety against fire. Better heating and cooling systems, advanced air filtration and improved insulation make new houses more energy efficient. Advances in building materials have also enabled builders to construct homes that require less maintenance.
With all these advantages, you are probably wondering why anyone would choose an existing house over a new one. The main disadvantage is one of character. After viewing the cookie-cutter offerings of many new housing developments, the desire for uniqueness and individuality moves to the top of some buyers 'must have' list. If you are sold on the benefits of a new house but would also like one with character, here are some tips to help you achieve both.
Builders with a Flare for Character
In response to consumers' desires for uniqueness, there are a growing number of builders who have raised the bar in architectural style. Architectural designs are being offered with greater variation within a given development. Bold colors and a mixture of exterior materials such as stone, wood and brick add old-world charm to new houses. Patios, decks, balconies and shutters are also being offered to give your new home a unique style.
Interior upgrades and features are also being geared toward buyers' individual needs. Although new houses have become smaller relative to lot sizes to allow more space for landscaping, rooms, such as an office or yoga room, can be designed to suit your lifestyle. Light fixture and tiling upgrades can compliment your individual style as well. Some builders also offer the choice of luxury amenities, such as kitchen islands and stand-alone storage hutches.
Many design-oriented builders can easily be found online. They also advertise in new-home publications that are found in grocery stores and restaurants. But be aware that these fantastic additions come with a price tag that can easily run you an additional 20 percent above the advertised cost of the house.
Making a Cookie-Cutter Stand Out
If you live in an area that suffers from the cookie-cutter syndrome, you can still add character. With new houses, many builders give you the option of purchasing their flooring or using an outside company. This will most certainly add to the overall cost, but many buyers feel it's worth it. This strategy may also apply to interior and exterior painting, which will allow you to be more inventive with colors. For color advice, visit paint stores and decorating websites, which often display color schemes by style, i.e., modern versus colonial. After you've moved in, you can, of course, change out lighting and other fixtures. Finally, many new house developments don't include landscaping, so take advantage of it! Well-placed trees and bushes can give you seclusion, while adding a touch of uniqueness and style.