Cape Cod Custom Builder | REEF Cape Cod's Home Builder

50 Things to Consider when Designing and Building your Cape Cod Custom Home

Written by REEF Cape Cod's Home Builder | Wed, Jun 14, 2017

Here's a great list of things to consider when you are planning to build your new custom home on Cape Cod. After designing and building nearly 1,500 new home, renovation, and addition projects here on Cape Cod, we decided to put together a list of important considerations for those looking to build. This list will be helpful when selecting a piece of land or property for a new home project or renovation, and provides a list of questions to ask your prospective designer or builder.

 

 

  1. Ask for references from your builder and designer, and follow up with them, ask about the overall experience
  2. Ask about your builder’s warranty program and manufacturer’s warranties
  3. Get your designer and builder out to your prospective home site BEFORE you decide to purchase the property
  4. Ask how long it will take to get the design, permitting and engineering done, and expect that timeline to increase for waterfront or other properties near wetlands or sensitive areas
  5. Set a realistic budget BEFORE you purchase land (Click here for REEF’s Construction Cost Guide)
  6. Make A Wants List & A Needs List, it will help set priorities for the design and budget
  7. Ask the builder or designer for a list of vendors they work with, and visit with them
  8. Ask how the interior and exterior finishes are selected
  9. How are changes handled, both before and during construction?
  10. Ask to see change order documents and other forms used during construction
  11.  Ask about fees the designer or builder charges for their work
  12. Examine the cost estimate in detail and ask for clarification of each line item
  13. Mentally visualize your floor plan, or ask for a 3D rendering to better understand your new home
  14. Consider views, natural light, and window options
  15. Understand the property you are buying and review boundaries and set-backs with surveyor and builder
  16. Consider a walkout basement or drive under garage on sloping lots
  17. Start your budget planning with Landscaping, as most people defer landscaping to the end of the project when the budget may be exceeded
  18. Ask to walk the property with the builder prior to clearing and identify and save large trees if possible
  19. Research the property tax rate so you know what the real estate taxes will be for your new home
  20. Expect to pay more than you originally planned, and understand what is included with your contract
  21. Use the highest quality materials available within your budget, it will save money in the long run
  22. Ask your builder what is not included or specifically excluded from your contract
  23. Plan for an outdoor living area, furniture, play areas etc.
  24. Use proven, energy efficient systems with a strong performance track record
  25. Examine the options for vaulted or cathedral ceilings to enhance the feel of important rooms
  26. Include a convenient location for laundry areas, preferably near bedrooms
  27. Ask about Universal Design or Aging in Place design for retirement homes
  28. Design a walk-in pantry area
  29. Consider multiple work / prep areas in the kitchen
  30. Choose low maintenance materials
  31. Create a light fixture and bath fixture list by room
  32. Set a budget for closet storage systems and shelving
  33. Include dimmers on light fixtures, both interior and exterior
  34. Do not put covered porches on the north-facing side of homes
  35. Consider additional exterior outlets on walls or roof lines for outdoor lighting
  36. Create a separate space for an office / hobby/ or other flex space, away from the main living areas
  37. Ask about the details, and take the time to read the manufacturers warranties and user guides for your selected products and finishes
  38. Design with tall ceilings wherever possible
  39. Use additional trim, moldings and details to dress up the home exterior
  40. Install spare conduits in a few locations in the home for future wiring, speakers etc.
  41. Review furniture layouts before your build, and inform your designer and builder of any special furniture pieces you might be considering
  42. Insulate with the highest grade material available, the long term cost savings are huge!
  43. Take time to study floor plans and elevation drawings, changes on paper are inexpensive, after building has started, changes are very expensive
  44. Ask your builder to provide a construction schedule and determine a completion date
  45. Visit local home shows to see new products
  46. Meet with the local building inspector do ask questions about house size, orientation or other restrictions
  47. Consider interior and exterior finishes that are timeless and tasteful, it will enhance the long term value of your new home
  48. Consider efficient use of spaces in the home, every square foot costs money and you want to get maximum use out of each space
  49. A well designed, efficient home may not have to be as big as you think!
  50. Design a house that will serve your needs in the short and long term - it will add value

If you are looking for a designer or builder for your new custom home on Cape Cod, Contact the team at REEF Builders today! 

"You've been coming to the Cape your whole life, Isn't it time you stayed?"