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Calling the shots

By Fifty @ Feb 11, 2016

It’s really happening. You’ve signed the contract and your dream home is rising from the ground, filled with all the fittings that will make it uniquely your own.

And while you probably came into the project with a clear idea of what you wanted, it’s not unusual to second-guess yourself when faced with a vast array of choices.

If you’ve done your homework and hired a reputable builder such as Rainey Homes, this is when you put your heads together with your loved ones and a team of professionals and sort through the various options and upgrades.

As soon as possible, begin with any structural adjustments you have in mind. It’s much easier (and less expensive) to open a room or extend a garage in the framing stages rather than knocking out finished walls and pouring new foundations.

You’ll also want to take into consideration the added cost of your proposed changes and whether it affects other systems such as plumbing, wiring and support beams.

As the work progresses, fine-tune your finishing touches from paint and crown molding to appliances. Remember: The granite countertops you saw in the builder’s model home might have been an option that doesn’t fit into your proposed budget.

Consider, too, what you might be able to add yourself after closing at a lower price. The advantage of getting that beautiful new stove with two ovens and a grill insert through your builder is that the cost could be rolled into the mortgage.

Ideally, you and the builder discussed all of these options in the beginning, when you met with the design team. At the same time, you’re free to change your mind as work progresses. That’s why it’s important to visit the construction site often. Make sure the hand-hewn fireplace mantel looks as good in person as it did on paper.

Speaking of staying on budget, carefully weigh which options you need versus those you simply want. That’s not to say you can’t indulge your whims. After all, how often do you have the chance to build your dream home? Just keep in mind you have the ability to add timeless décor after you move in.

The bottom line: Work with someone you trust, go in with a realistic budget and keep the lines of communication open. That will transform your house into the home of your dreams for years to come.

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