When should you spring for builder upgrades?

It’s always interesting to watch new-home buyers as they choose their upgrades. Naturally, they’re excited about this chance to customize their homes. Some throw caution to the wind, exceeding their budgets by thousands, while others are determined not to go a penny over. Whatever your personality type, the ability to prioritize is key.

Now, the types of upgrades available to you will depend largely on your builder. Among the most popular options are hardwood floors, finished basements and gas fireplaces. (In more exclusive communities, these may be considered standard features.)

Upgrades can be as modest as a soft-close toilet seat or as dramatic as a coffered ceiling. You may have the opportunity to select crown moulding and taller baseboards, or high-end appliances, custom cabinetry and top-of-the-line hardware. Mosaic tile backsplashes, granite countertops, elegant lighting fixtures, closet organizers, rain showerheads . . . the list goes on and on.

As you can imagine, it’s enough to set your head spinning. So, which features should make the final cut?

Consider the following:

Which upgrades will have the most impact on your quality of life?

Write down every option that appeals to you, and then rank them from most to least important. You may be surprised to find that sometimes it’s not the most expensive items that matter most to you. Some people get more excited about a kitchen recycling centre than they do about a bathroom clad in marble.

Which make the most sense from an investment point of view?

While it’s hard to imagine selling a home that isn’t even built yet, there will come a day when you’ll want your home to appeal to buyers. Money spent on solid gold bathroom faucets will not be recouped, I promise you. Hardwood floors, on the other hand, tend to be a crowd-pleaser.

Which can be easily postponed for a couple of years?

If you’re still having trouble allocating your budget, opt for the upgrades that are most technically difficult to install. Gas fireplaces, for instance, are a good feature to install right off the bat, while cabinet hardware can easily be replaced at a later date.

While I wouldn’t advise you to splurge on every bell and whistle, the right touches will make your home feel as special as you are. Like so much in life, it’s about striking the right balance.

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