When deciding to custom-build your home, there are several common mistakes that can be all too easily made the first time around. At Segal & Morel, we’ve been designing luxurious, energy-efficient homes for over five decades, so we know how these errors can impact the final result. More importantly, we know how to identify and avoid them. Here, we take a closer look at common luxury home design mistakes and how they can be prevented.
Choosing Your Builder Based on Their Price
Designing and building a home to call your own is a long-term investment with many moving parts, and the quality of the home begins with its builder. Early on, you’ll likely compile a list of bids from different builders. While spending the least amount of money on the lowest bid might seem like the wiser financial decision, this is not always the case.
Oftentimes, the bids you’re presented with reflect the quality of the work you’re going to receive, and while larger numbers may be hard to reconcile, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial price. Enlisting the help of a respected builder known for their quality of work ensures that the integrity of your home is the top priority for everyone involved in its construction.
Little to No Contingency Planning
Whether it be an unexpected storm that damages the work that’s already been done or a faulty pallet of building materials from a manufacturer, you need to be prepared to handle unexpected situations at a moment’s notice. Once you’ve selected a builder, it would be wise to meet with them before construction begins and discuss some possible scenarios that could hinder the construction progress. Reputable builders who’ve been in the industry for decades will likely offer a few of the most common issues that arise and provide solutions for the uncertainties that may occur during construction. Be sure to have a set of contingency plans in place to reduce downtime and be able to move into your new home as soon as possible.
Forgoing Energy Efficiency for Luxury
Oftentimes, the phrase “energy efficiency” is not used in the same sentence as “luxury,” but this doesn’t have to be the case. Take the time to work with your building and design team, and emphasize your desire to build a home that is as energy-efficient as it is luxurious. This often includes high-quality insulation in the walls, windows that greatly reduce the heat transfer between your home and the outdoors, and Energy Star-compliant lighting and electronic appliances.
Designing and Building Homes for Over 50 Years
At Segal & Morel, we’re very familiar with these common mistakes, and we take the additional steps necessary to avoid any potential issues. For over 50 years and counting, we’ve helped homeowners in New Jersey and Pennsylvania draw up their luxury home design with Energy Star compliance in mind. Contact us today for more information.
