Things to Consider When Budgeting For Your Custom Build
The perfect location. Materials that will last. Personalized for your unique lifestyle. These factors are enough to convince anyone that a custom build is the way to go. However, we understand that the costs associated with building from the ground up can be daunting. We’re here to assure you that, with the right planning and budgeting, you can work with an expert team to design a custom build that feels like home–all while stewarding your finances well. Here are four things to consider when budgeting for your custom build in the Lowcountry.
The Lot the Home Will Sit On
Before you start construction on your home, you’ll need to acquire the land necessary to build it on. And, in the Lowcountry, you have your pick of some of the most beautiful views in the nation! The cost of the property you purchase for this purpose will vary, but our team will happily help you select a lot that works within your budget!
When choosing a lot, you’ll also want to think about where it’s located and its current condition; for example, if excavation, tree removal, demolition, or other extensive foundation prep is necessary for the home, this could add to your final costs. We’ll help with the calculations so you know exactly what the final price tag looks like.
Design and Construction Costs
Every custom home is designed to your preferences, so you may be wondering–how do you even begin to determine a price range for design and construction based on your unique needs? This is where your design-build team comes into play–and, at Shoreline, we take our fiscal responsibility very seriously. During the pre-construction process, you’ll get to bring your preferences and tastes to the table, and we’ll bring our expertise to create a design-build budget that ensures your finances are prioritized well throughout the build.
This cost will depend on a few factors, including the home’s location, the floor plan and size, and your desired features. Prior to solidifying the design, our team will give you an estimate that considers these factors–in addition to the costs associated with furnishing the home (e.g., appliances and lighting) and landscaping (e.g., planting grass and trees).
Features That Increase Your Custom Home’s Value
There are many elements to consider when meeting with your design-build team–including selecting features that will not only accommodate your lifestyle, but also significantly increase your home’s value over time:
Porches - Screened porches are a Lowcountry staple! Many porches are equipped with fans and a fireplace, making them a great outdoor zone to spend time in all year round.
Pool - A pool is just what any home needs to make the backyard a perfect outdoor oasis. Consider adding a pool bar and an outdoor shower, and you could have the ideal summer retreat right at home!
Carriage House - A garage can easily be converted into a carriage house combo, allowing you the extra space to host out-of-town visitors and guests.
High-End Kitchen - Often referred to as the heart of a home, the kitchen is an area that you’ll want to consider heavily in the design and financing phase. Consider what features you’d like to include–such as a unique backsplash, kitchen island, breakfast nook, or other popular kitchen amenities!
Spa-Like Bathroom - Create ample storage opportunities, choose high-end fixtures, and consider adding features you won’t find in most bathrooms–like heated flooring, shower seating, or towel warmers!
Low-Maintenance Materials - Low-maintenance building materials can make a big difference in the longevity and value of your home. Weatherproof roofs, Hardie® Siding, and Savannah Gray Brick are popular materials used for custom homes in the Lowcountry.
Energy-Efficient Features - From metal roofs that take the pressure off of your A/C to Energy Star appliances, energy-efficient features will cut down on your electric bill for years to come and increase your home’s value.
Smart Security Features - Smart security devices like door locks, smart thermostats, carbon monoxide detectors, and security cameras are excellent features to factor into your custom build.
Beautiful Landscaping - Curated foliage around the home is great for improving the property’s curb appeal.
