One of the many benefits that you get when you design your own home is full control of WOW features. “WOW” features are items on your wish list that, should you be in the market to buy an existing house, are often just hopes and dreams. But when you decide to build and design your own home, you get to prioritize those WOW features and choose how many of them you want to include.

This is just one of the many fun parts that come with designing your own home. Ready to get started? Here are three tips to help you on your way

Plan (and dream!) ahead of time

WOW features don’t just highlight your personality but they also make your home stand apart from others. So plan ahead. As soon as you know that you’re going to be designing and building your own home, start crafting the list of special features you want to include. Go all out here. Nothing should be off the table since this is the dreaming part of the process. If you don’t get it out now, you’ll regret it later! And remember, just because it’s on the list doesn’t mean you have to include it.

Look beyond the obvious

When it comes to WOW features, go beyond the obvious ones like covered porches and outdoor fireplaces. Those are great and you very well may end up including them, but push yourself to look beyond them to some less obvious choices like “green” features. You might only get to design your own home once so take a deep dive here. 

Budget for it

Once you have your list of WOW features done, take it to your building partner and get a cost estimate for each. Ask for a safe bet on potential unplanned expenses that could arise in the process of completing them. Once you have costs for each item, it’s time to narrow the list. 

Narrow the list

Sit down with your family and review your list alongside your budget. What are the non-negotiable items on the list? Give each family member a chance to weigh in. Once you have a narrowed list, crunch the final numbers, and see if you’re still within your budget. If so, then you’re good to go. If you’re over or under, go back to the drawing board to see what can be cut or added. 

Start designing your own custom home today

Whether you’re new to the custom home building world or have had a dream to build and design your own home for years, our team here at North Homes would love to help you get started. Start your journey with a custom home builder in central Indiana by requesting a free consultation with our team of experts here at North Homes. Call us at 765-482-2444 or request information here.