Building a custom home is an excellent opportunity for homeowners to decide the details of every inch of their properties. Budget constraints can make it impossible for you to get everything you want. Even so, you can prioritize the areas worth saving on versus the areas you should splurge on. An experienced Wausau Homes builder can review your budget and compare it to your preferences. He or she can then advise you on where you can save money to make room for your must-haves.

Save Money on These Home Design Items

Unless you have a large or unrestricted budget, you may need to figure out where you can save money before deciding what to splurge on. This doesn’t mean you need to cut corners. It does mean you may need to determine the areas where you are willing to make some compromises. See below for some professional recommendations and why you should consider them.

1. Lighting

When working on your home design, you may feel compelled to hammer out all the details and hand-pick the best lighting fixtures from the start. Lighting is a good area to compromise on because you can switch them out easily and without professional assistance in the future, allowing for simple upgrades when you do have the finances.

2. Cabinet Hardware

Another easy fixture to swap out later is cabinet hardware. Depending on the size of your kitchen and how many bathrooms you have, this can save you from hundreds to upward of $1,000. Some homeowners now choose not to install any hardware at all for a cleaner look.

3. Faucets

Faucets require a higher level of expertise to swap out, but it’s nothing a good YouTube video and a little elbow grease can’t solve. However, you can consider getting less expensive lookalikes to save money and then upgrade to higher quality fixtures when you have the budget.

4. Crown Molding

Elaborate crown molding can give your home a luxurious appearance. However, this serves only as a decorative purpose and can increase your overall cost. Consider a more contemporary style by using simpler trim options and foregoing it in some rooms.

5. Hardwood Flooring

There is no doubt about it: There’s nothing quite like hardwood flooring. However, compared to other flooring options, it can be expensive to install and require a lot of maintenance. Consider laminate, vinyl or bamboo, which costs less, looks just as great and requires less upkeep.

Splurge on These Home Selections

If you make great choices about what to spend on, you can save money to upgrade other things later. With this goal in mind, consider splurging on the most functional items that affect maintenance and energy efficiency. The more comfortable your home is, the less money you may feel compelled to spend in the long run.

1. Insulation

The more well-insulated your home is, the lower your heating and cooling costs will be. Insulation may include not just the material in your walls but also the type of windows you use. Double-pane and triple-pane windows offer the best protection.

2. Heating and Cooling

Installing a high-quality HVAC system can extend longevity and improve efficiency. Some homeowners choose to do away with traditional HVAC systems. Instead, they turn to mini-split units, ceiling fans, fireplaces and well-placed windows for heating and cooling the home.

3. Storage

From increased kitchen cabinetry to larger closets, the more storage you have, the longer it may take you to outgrow your home. It also gives you the opportunity to purchase items in bulk and store them, so you reduce your consumer costs.

4. Appliances

You may not necessarily need a smart fridge that makes your grocery list for you, but spending a little extra on appliances is an excellent investment and can improve the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. The more frequently you use the appliance, the more justifiable the expense, so look into high-quality washing machines, dishwashers, stoves and microwaves.

5. Countertops

Countertop space is prime real estate in the kitchen. The more you have, the better. Prep space can make all the difference when it comes to making complex meals or hosting large gatherings. With a wide range of materials and finishes, you should be able to find the best fit for your budget and lifestyle. Splurging on countertops can also increase the value and appeal of your home if you decide to sell.

6. Landscaping

Another important factor when you decide to sell is the curb appeal. Investing in sensible but beautiful landscaping can improve your home value. Consider a wide driveway, solar outdoor lighting and low-maintenance plants. Adequate outdoor space can also make your home more enjoyable. The key is learning how best to allocate your budget, so you get everything you need and most of what you want.

Wausau Homes’ unique building process makes it easier for you to determine what you can splurge on by allowing you to pick out all your exterior and interior fixtures and finishes that add up to a Firm Price at contract signing before construction even starts. Wausau Homes is the only custom home builder that offers a Your Way, Firm Price, On Time guarantee. Contact us today for more information.

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