New Home Upgrades

You might want to upgrade the kitchen in a new home first.

I work closely with lots of new home buyers in and around the Reunion, Colorado area as a Buyer’s Agent. Choosing new home upgrades is a critical step in building a new home. I share some tips and tricks with my clients when we go through the selection process. That way, I can make sure Buyer’s have a knowledgeable advocate when working with new home builders.

This series of articles I have been writing  addresses many of the issues and questions that commonly come-up. So, if you have an issue or question you would like answered, please use the contact form at the bottom to ask me. I would love to help.

Upgrades, upgrades, everywhere…but which ones do I pick?

You are in the design and planning phase of getting your new home built, and the builder is presenting you with lots of options and new home upgrades. Unless you have an unlimited budget — and who does these days — it can be fairly overwhelming to try and figure out where you can stay the standard-feature course, and where to upgrade. While every homeowner has to determine what suits their lifestyle and needs, generally some upgrades add to basic convenience and the value of the home. Because, some new home upgrades can offer the best return on your investment should you decide to sell your home down the road. 

Kitchen: the modern-day hearth 

This is the top area where experts in the home construction business believe upgrading is worth its salt. Energy-efficient appliances — while more costly initially — reduce energy consumption and save money in the long run.

Upgrading even slightly to better materials and options like ceiling-high cabinets, pull-out pantries, under-the-counter beverage areas, small appliance garages, and unique hardware will pay off in convenience and re-sale value.

Kitchen islands are a no-brainer. And, they are not only functional and attractive, but also serve as a gathering place and the hub of activity in the kitchen.

Don’t make a misstep and overlook flooring

Wood flooring never goes out of style and goes with every décor. It’s easier to maintain and a better grade wood will hold up to wear better in heavily-traveled areas like the living room, dining room and kitchen. Radiant flooring might be a great option if you live in an area that gets particularly cold. Your tootsies will stay warm, and you’ll save money in heating as well.

Let your light shine

Bathroom and lighting upgrades are important when deigning your new home.

Focus on extra lighting in the kitchen — particularly in work areas such as food prep and the kids’ work area. Also, you might also want to splurge for under-the-counter lighting too. And, in the bathroom, you’ll want plenty of overhead lighting, and wall-mounted fixtures to give you the illumination you need.

If you have the option and budget for skylights or other windows that let the sun shine in, go for it. It will fill your home with warmth and naturally lighting that just can’t be beat.

New home grades and extras

Make sure you have a little wiggle room in your budget for other things that really improve the quality of your life like more closets, extra outlets, or ceiling fans. Remember, model homes do not always represent what is standard. Things like wood trim and upgraded doors can add to the budget even when ou initially think you can do without them. Finally, be realistic in budgeting.

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