A custom built home is truly your own, equipped with the view and floor plan you’ve always imagined. The process of getting one is full of steps of which can be difficult to keep track. If you are ready to explore the possibility of building your dream house, read the insider tips below to help minimize costs so that your dream can come to life faster. 

Tips for Minimizing Costs on Custom Built Homes

1. Choose a Simple Design

It may be tempting to go wild and choose an unusually shaped house with turrets, complex roof lines, or cathedral ceilings. The more complicated the structure, the more time, materials, and labor intensive the building will be—and thus more expensive. Consider the beauty of simple shapes and focus on finishes and decorating elements to make the house unique instead.

2. Build Small and Tall

Simple and small living spaces have been on trend for years. Take time to choose a home size that will suit your projected needs. If kids are gone, do you need three extra bedrooms? Four bathrooms? Smaller homes can be elegant and luxurious.  A small house with two levels may be cheaper than a sprawling, one-story structure. 

3. Budget

It’s useful to set a core budget that also includes some flexibility. Be open with your builder about what you can afford. Decide ahead of time on the “non-negotiables,” those design elements that are too important to sacrifice. By knowing what is most important, you can focus cost-saving efforts in other areas. For example, if you are set on marble countertops, offset that cost by laminate rather than hardwood flooring.

4. Reclaim & Reuse

Many custom built homes include reclaimed wood or windows obtained from building recycling centers. Visit the resources in your area to get an idea of the types of items available. You may be surprised at the quality—and price—of materials you find, such as tile, stone, plumbing fixtures, cabinets, and more. Many communities also have stores that re-sell fixtures reclaimed from historic buildings that have been torn down.

5. Choose the Builder Wisely

Choose a builder who is used to working with individuals, rather than just on large housing developments. Find out if they are willing to work within a set budget, and if they are open to utilizing refurbished materials. Get a complete quote and ask for a line-item budget of what the build-out will cost. Make sure that personalities are compatible and that the builder can see and respect your vision.

Comia Home Builders in O’Fallon, MO, serves St. Charles and St. Louis Counties with complete building services. They offer custom built homes, remodeling, storm damage, roofing, and exterior upgrades. Comia makes every home with care and attention to customer needs. Call (314) 575-0521 for more information or visit the website to learn more about specific services.