Custom-built homes (Custom Home) can be a significant investment, but that doesn’t mean they’re not their weight in gold. Not only can a custom build give a family exactly what they need in a living space, but it can also create massive profit opportunities when it comes to reselling later on. Of course, to reap those benefits, the original builders have to pay attention to a few critical details like the floor plan, functionality, and overall design.
Here are nine pro tips for locking in your blueprint wishlist without locking out potential resell dollars.
Table of Contents
- 1. Opt for stock house plans of Custom Home
- 2. Go for an open floor plan
- 3. The kitchen counts
- 4. Keep it age-inclusive
- 5. Consider energy efficiency and eco-friendliness
- 6. Use high-quality flooring in your Custom Home
- 7. Add smart home technology
- 8. Provide plenty of storage
- 9. Create multi-use rooms
- Final thoughts
1. Opt for stock house plans of Custom Home
Custom homes are usually built with the exact needs of the family designing them in mind. While that’s great for the original family, it’s not always ideal for future homebuyers.
Stock house plans can boost resale value by featuring room arrangements and designs that appeal to the general public. Stock home plans are always a safe resale bet because they have a proven track record and reputation. Manufacturers have brought these home designs to life throughout the country, and it’s clear that most buyers love them.
Plus, stock house plans keep design and construction costs relatively low compared to creating a custom home from scratch. If you’re planning to sell your home down the road, it may be wise to make a few tweaks to a base stock plan rather than going fully custom.
2. Go for an open floor plan
Though some claim the open floor plan trend is on the way out, most buyers still look for it in a new home. That’s because open concept floor plans maximize livable space, improve lighting, and create better traffic flow.
In a small space, such as an urban environment, open concept floor plans can make a home look larger than it is. The perceived extra space is a massive plus for future homebuyers.
An open floor plan is a game-changer even in a large home. It provides versatility, allowing future homebuyers to use the space however they please. Homeowners can create work areas, hangout spaces, and everything in between, making it one of the most versatile layouts.
3. The kitchen counts
Most buyers look at the kitchen first, so creating a low-maintenance, high-quality kitchen space is key to building resale value. Improving the kitchen space with high-end countertops is an excellent place to start. Granite tends to look nice, as does marble or quartz. Stainless steel appliances look clean and sleek, as does a light color scheme overall.
It’s also essential that the kitchen be functional. For example, if there’s an island, there should be ample walking space around all sides. If possible, place the stove directly behind the sink. Ensure there are drawers and cabinets for silverware and everyday dishes as close as possible to the dishwasher. Little details like these can go a long way in a potential buyer’s mind.
4. Keep it age-inclusive
There’s no need to skip out on trends, but it is crucial to consider a range of ages when building a custom home. Making sure the house is approachable for both old and young buyers will help to maximize the resale value.
That means building bathrooms with easy-to-access showers, including a bedroom and bathroom on the main level, and making sure every space is kid-safe.
5. Consider energy efficiency and eco-friendliness
Energy efficiency is crucial in a custom home. Invest in windows and appliances that help conserve energy.
You should also look for eco-friendly materials when possible. Environmentally conscious homebuyers are becoming the new norm, and they might turn their noses up at a home with a large carbon footprint. Using bamboo, cork, recycled steel, and other sustainable home building materials can help resale value.
6. Use high-quality flooring in your Custom Home
Replacing flooring comes at a high cost. That being the case, many new home buyers often shy away from homes that need a decent amount of floor repair.
When building a custom home, pick high-quality flooring that will stand the test of time. Natural stone, ceramic tiles, and hardwood hold up better than carpet. Using reclaimed hardwood may be an out-of-the-box choice. Reclaimed hardwood not only holds up well but is an eco-friendly product.
If carpet is the only option, consider a style that will last. Choose a neutral color in a Berber or frieze style. Carpets in this style tend to last around ten years or more.
7. Add smart home technology
Adding automation to a custom build is a great way to increase its resale value. Smart technology allows homeowners to control everything from lights to temperature from an app on their phone. That said, be wary about adding technology that might become obsolete before you sell. Instead, look for technology that improves functionality and is likely to last.
Companies like Apple, Google, and the Zigbee Alliance, which includes Ikea, Samsung, and several other big names, have all teamed together to create smart home tech that’s interoperable and compatible.
By sticking to big brand name tech, custom build automation won’t become obsolete a few years down the road.
8. Provide plenty of storage
Most buyers look closely at storage space, so look for ways to add as much as possible in a custom build. If possible, consider building a full basement. Attics or a room over the garage can also add ample storage space. Large closets, especially walk-in closets, and a mudroom are also a good idea. Built-in shelving around the fireplace or in bedrooms can be a huge plus. And under-stair storage can also help.
Finally, include a dedicated laundry room with plenty of cabinetry if possible. These extra storage spaces can add a ton of resale value to a custom build.
9. Create multi-use rooms
Buyers tend to look for versatility, so creating multi-use rooms in a custom build is a good idea. You’ll want to put extra attention into the adaptability of your spaces if you’re building over a small footprint.
Rooms with lots of built-in shelving and a hidden Murphy bed can create an office space that doubles as a guest room. Hiding appliances like washing machines behind wall-to-wall cabinetry can make a laundry space that works as an office when the washing machine isn’t in use.
Also, consider adding an amenity or “plus room” to the floorplan. These are rooms meant to handle extra activities of any type. An amenity room could work as a gym, an office, a playroom, or a combination of all three.
Final thoughts
Building a custom home is a significant investment that can provide great returns. By paying close attention to the floor plan, functionality, and overall home design, custom home builders can ensure they maximize the resale value of their homes.
Also read: 4 Useful Tips for Redesigning Your House
