Many people have ideas for their dream home, ranging from practical to fantastical. Working with a custom home builder lets you realize the vision, and you’ll enjoy a unique investment for years. Here are a few factors you should consider before starting the design process.

What to Consider When Working With a Custom Home Builder

1. Household Members

Consider how many people will move into your new house, and plan for the future. If you want to grow the family, add extra bedrooms to accommodate the number of kids you plan to have. Create a bedroom away from the main living areas for in-laws to move into or friends to use when they visit.

2. Floor Plan

Create a floor plan that accommodates your wants and lifestyle needs. For example, a ranch-style home is ideal if you’re concerned about live-in elderly parents tackling stairs and you may want to give each bedroom its own bathroom. Place the kitchen near the garage entrance so that you don’t have to trek heavy bags of groceries through the house. If you work from home, consider placing the office away from a noisy street.

3. Efficiency Features

There are many eco-friendly features you can incorporate into the home, such as low-flow toilets to prevent water waste and dimmable lights with LEDs to use less electricity. Ask your custom home builder to incorporate ENERGY STAR-rated windows into the design to prohibit cool air from escaping, which will prevent you from running the AC frequently, lowering your utility bill.

4. Architectural Style

Ask your custom home builder about your neighborhood’s guidelines. Your homeowner’s association may limit what you can do with your house as they likely want it to blend with the neighborhood. Bungalows are ideal for coastal areas while an American craftsman is typically used in the suburbs. If your home will be on a hill, opt for a Victorian style to create an impressive castle-like look.

If you’re ready to create your dream house, contact the skilled team of contractors at Homeland Construction in Ewa Beach, HI. Since 2013, these professional custom home builders have helped Oahu residents design their property from the ground up, working closely with them every step of the way. View a gallery of their past projects online, and call (808) 690-1153 or (808) 327-2470 to request a free estimate.