Some people dream about having the chance to build their very own custom home. Perhaps you’ve always wanted a large kitchen island with a built-in luxury farmhouse sink, or maybe a spa-like bathroom with a large soaker tub and a perfectly designed countertop that fits your exact height requirement. The placement of everything in a custom home is influenced by you and implemented by the professionals you work with. Many people, however, steer away from custom homes because of the misconceptions that circle around them. Read on as we explore some myths and the truth behind custom homes in Texas.
1. Smaller houses will cost less.
Smaller homes can cost just as much as bigger homes, if not slightly more. The cost is based on a variety of factors, each of which can cause the price to spike and all of which are subject to constantly evolving prices based on the economy. Pricing considers:
- Materials used
- Method and type of construction
- Location
- Complexity of the build
- Site costs
- Permits
- Impact fees
- Environmental impacts
Even though the home is smaller, some fixed costs can decide the overall cost of the house. Additionally, a smaller home may need a stronger foundation, a heavier roof, and other adjustments that evenly distribute the weight.
2. I can save money by skipping the granite countertops.
Laminate countertops are a cost-effective option in the short term. However, they can cost more in the long term. Laminate countertops scuff up and lose durability over time. Granite countertops, on the other hand, provide durability, as well as beauty and functionality. The average life expectancy of a laminate countertop is about 25 years, while it can be over 60 for granite. These numbers can vary depending on the care and quality of the countertops.
3. I must buy a plot of land before hiring a builder.
Purchasing a plot before hiring a builder may seem like it’ll save time, but it could lead to some unexpected surprises once the building starts. Your builder can be an asset in choosing the plot to build your home. They can assess the aspects of the area to see if the plot is a prime place to build the house. It’s also important to understand the geological factors that may impact building your home in an area, such as the rock layers below the surface and underground water sources. An experienced builder will recognize environmental factors and help you identify a perfect building location. In the long run, choosing a plot with your builder can help you meet more of your criteria when building a home.
4. Adding windows will lower the cost.
Windows offer a lot of wonderful bonuses to a room, like natural light, fresh air, and a space that feels naturally larger. A common misconception, however, is that adding windows to a wall will lower the cost of that wall. Depending on the window, chosen trim, and wall material costs, it can be just as expensive, if not more so.
Building custom homes in Texas is NOT too difficult.
Custom homes are a lot of work and a huge project to take on, and that’s why choosing the right builder is so important. A design-build company like Bat City Builders works with you from the very beginning, designing and personalizing the home you’ve always wanted. With experienced professionals backing you at every turn, you’ll soon find yourself living in the home you’ve always dreamed of. If you’re looking to start your own custom home project, contact us so we can get to work for you.
Photos, in order of appearance, by:
- Avel Chuklanov on Unsplash
- Curtis Adams on Pexels
- Hamish Duncan on Unsplash