Features and finishes: You get to select what you want
October 11, 2017
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned veteran, buying a brand new home is one of the most exciting things you will ever do.
When you purchase new construction, it is typically not yet built, so you get to make a number of choices regarding features, finishes and upgrades.
Many builders offer decor centres staffed with consultants to help homebuyers navigate the process of selecting their features and finishes; and those builders who don’t have their own decor centres often provide similar services via an outside company.
The design professional will work with you to ensure your new home reflects your lifestyle and your personal decor tastes.
For the best result, do some homework. Before your appointment at the decor centre, make sure you understand what features and finishes come standard with your new home and what your upgrade options are. If the standard features fit your tastes and wants, you’ll need to make many selections such as colours for the cabinetry, floors and tiles.
It’s always a good idea to make some decisions before your appointment. For instance, if you know the colour and material you want for the kitchen cabinetry, that’s a good step forward. Types of the countertops, flooring and appliances may be some of many choices you will have to make.
When visiting a decor centre, arrive early and if you can, go more than once and browse to get a sense of the options available. Some builders have hundreds of choices, so knowing what you like is a great head start.
Give yourself plenty of time for your appointment. The process can take an hour for a small condo or up to five hours for a large detached home. Just know that it will take longer than you expect. Sometimes, especially if you have never been through this process, it can be exhausting, so it’s okay to book another appointment to finish or finalize your selections.
If you plan on making upgrades, budget about three to five per cent over the purchase price. There will be a lot of paperwork so make sure you review the documents carefully with your design consultant to confirm accuracy.
This is will be your new home so make sure you invest the time to get it just the way you want.