Why Cost Effective Home Design Is in the Details

When you are building cost effective homes, the devil is in the design details! While you expect and budget for the major expenses (foundation work, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems), it is often the smaller details that end up adding substantially to your overall expenses. Let’s see why – and how you can trim your costs and still get the house of your dreams.

Building Cost Effective Homes

Some of the priciest aspects of your home are the interior and exterior finishes. It’s understandable that you want the design details to look great: it’s what people see, and you want them to be durable as well as attractive.

For example, a marble counter top is undoubtedly beautiful. But it is exceptionally pricey to cut and install, and because it can chip, you may have to do some repair work or replacement down the line. Opting for a less expensive option like laminate or butcher block can give you the look you want without the big hit to your budget.

Now, there is nothing wrong with wanting nice finishes. We want them too! But in a cost effective house, you balance what you need and want with what you can budget. You may make some compromises in some places so you can get the design details you really want in others. If marble is that important to you for your counter, for example, then maybe you choose laminate or vinyl flooring for the bathrooms. It’s all about smart trade-offs.

Also remember to factor in the lifespan of your finishes. Just because something is cheaper initially doesn’t mean it will stand the test of time. Replacing an entire kitchen floor after just a few years doesn’t give you the return on investment you need!

Consider, as well, the cost of energy use. For example, you can skim on your windows and save a few thousand dollars. But in the summer when you’re sweating and grouchy (not to mention wasting your AC dollars), you may wish you’d opted for the more expensive yet much more efficient window upgrade.

Again, it is all about smart choices. If you need help choosing new house features that will work for your needs, wants, and budget, ask the experts in cost effective homes. We’re happy to answer any questions and help guide you through the decision-making process.