It begins with an idea. One of the most basic of human needs. Shelter. Something to protect you from the elements. Something to contribute to your comfort. Something to provide you with privacy. You know it is time to make a change. Maybe it is time to move out of that 'starter home' into something that provides you with more space to stretch out. Maybe you've already raised a family and now it is time to sell the large family home and move into a smaller, more managable place or even the ADU (assessory dwelling unit) converted from your daughter's old garage.
When it is time to make that change, there are usually many options. New construction often one of those options. New construction is often considered a more glamorous option over renovations or additions. But each avenue has its advantages and disadvantages.
New construction allows you to, in most cases, customize the build to what you need. Whether a modest 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom ADU or a sprawling 6 bedroom, 4 bathroom house, there are many avenues to make it what you need and want. You can pick your floorplan layout, wall height, siding, roofing, windows and door styles and colors, cabinet species and finish, wall colors, and many other other options. The list of choices is extensive.
You have the benefit of building an efficient building with new appliances and HVAC systems.
But new construction can also have its drawbacks. In many cases, you'll need to find a lot that suits your needs. The process to obtain a permit can be daunting in some cases. You'll have to wait months or sometimes years to get on a contractor's list and endure the months or years that it takes to complete the project. You'll likely run into delays or issues at some point in the process. The new construction process can also present you with too many choices. Not to mention the strain it puts any family relationships. New Construction projects require a lot of your mental bandwidth even if you aren't planning on being your own general contractor (more on that later).
In weighing the pros and cons, you can also ask yourself these questions:
Can I buy a house that will meet all my wants and needs?
Is there a way to change, alter, or add on to my existing home to get what I need?
How will a new construction project affect me and my family personally, professionally, physically, emotionally?
The process of changing the place where you live whether new construction, or remodeling and additions requires a well thought out plan. Be sure that you take the time to consider all facets of the project before diving in.