If you’re building a new house, planning begins long before you break ground. There are many steps involved, each with the potential for either hindering or enhancing your experience and process. To make sure you’re approaching the home building journey the right way, here is a short guide to the most important planning steps:
Compare multiple contractor bids
In most cases, hiring a general contractor is the most expensive part of building your new home. Picking the right contractor is a complicated process itself, but it’s crucial to compare different options carefully to find somebody affordable, trustworthy and efficient. Make sure to budget for every detail, and contact references to narrow down your options.
Comparison shop materials
Usually, the general contractor is in charge of choosing materials, amenities and appliances for your new home. However, it’s in your best interest to be involved in the process as well. Make your specific preferences known, and stay firm on your budget needs.
Choose your lot
If you haven’t purchased a lot for your new home, now’s the time to find one. Speak with real estate agents in your area to get a better idea of land costs in the locations you’re considering for your new home. You’ll also need to research details like zoning, building codes and soil condition before you break ground.
Create or pick a house plan
Most new homes are built from stock house plans provided by builders or designers. While it might seem simple to pick from a catalog, finding the perfect plan requires careful consideration. If you’re having trouble deciding, you can always consult a designer or builder for advice, suggestions or modifications to an existing plan.
Choose your team
You’ve probably already chosen a contractor, but there are other important players in this particular game. For instance, you’ll likely need a builder, surveyor, excavator and an architectural engineer. Assemble your perfect team and decide how much direct involvement you want to have in the process.
Craft a contract
It’s essential to get everything in writing. Come up with a contract for the general contractor or builder, home designer and everybody else involved in the process.
New home construction contracts typically include a detailed list of all parts of the new house puzzle. This is where you make specifics like building materials and budget needs explicitly clear to prevent delays and confusion. If you need help drafting a contract, speak to a real estate agent or real estate lawyer for guidance.
Are you ready to put your new house plans into action? Keep these tips in mind to have the best possible home building experience.
About the Author
Ryan Mandigo
Ryan Mandigo is an award-winning professional broker associate with Omni Real Estate. Originally a native of New Hampshire, his love of real estate began 30+ years ago while swinging a hammer on a framing crew. He has always had a strong passion for helping people, whether it be assisting a couple in purchasing their first home, finding a home that fits a growing family's needs, or downsizing for those with an empty nest. He strives to build strong personal and professional relationships with being a true believer in the power of positive thinking and always willing to lend a helping hand.
He is also a co-founder and board member of the Swing Fore the Kids organization. A local charity that is 100% nonprofit and their sole purpose is to help needy children and young adults within Horry County communities. He finds great satisfaction and pleasure in seeing how working hard for a great cause and raising funds can help others in need. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Waccamaw Youth Center in Conway, where their mission is to provide at-risk youth "A Place To Call Home"
When he is not working, he enjoys music, working around the home, spending time with family and friends, turning wrenches on vintage vehicles, getting some wind therapy on the Harley or chilling with their dogs.
Some quotes he lives by - "Do what you like and like what you do" - "You have to be odd to be number one" - "Dreams don't work unless you do" And one of his favorites. "Positive and enthusiastic thinking in all you do"
