If you just can’t find your dream home anywhere on the market, you can hire a custom house builder to create it for you.
But what if you do not know what your dream home should look like? In that case, check out this list of must-haves during home renovations.
1. Eco-friendly building materials
Above all, your custom home should feature as many eco-friendly and sustainable building materials as possible. Consider stone, reclaimed or recycled wood, cork, recycled steel, bamboo, and clay bricks, for example.
Eco-friendly building materials will not release harmful chemicals or toxins into the air, making your new home a much healthier one to live in.
2. A large kitchen island
A kitchen island is a must have for anyone who likes to spend a lot of time in the kitchen and to entertain guests. A large kitchen island is an even better idea, and since you get to decide how big you want your future kitchen to be, you can make this dream come true.
You could even opt for two islands: one to prepare meals and one to enjoy them.
3. High-performing windows
Many large windows will flood your home with natural light. But you want to ensure your windows are high-performing and ENERGY STAR® certified.
Energy-efficient windows help you keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, saving you money on your energy bills. Plus, they help keep UV rays and outdoor noise outside your home.
4. Rooftop solar panels
Why not plan for solar panels to be installed on the roof of your new home? Rooftop solar panels allow you to generate electricity using the sun’s energy.
Depending on your situation, this electricity might not be enough to meet the needs of your household. However, you can be certain it will help you save some money on your future electricity bills.
5. Smart home technologies
Smart home technologies are necessary if you want a modern and energy-efficient home. A smart thermostat, for example, is extremely simple to program. It allows you to manage the temperature in your home even when you’re away.
You could also get smart outlets, a smart security camera, a smart door lock, and smart lights. These technologies can be controlled with an app or voice commands.
6. A grocery door
When it comes to convenience, a must-have when building a new home is a grocery door. This door opens from your garage, so you can unload your groceries directly in your pantry.
If you prefer getting your groceries delivered to you, you could integrate a smart delivery lock box into the design of your home.
7. Energy efficient appliances
Energy-efficient appliances are another must have for your new home. Appliances with the ENERGY STAR® certification have enhanced performances and features, and they help homeowners save money on their electricity bills while reducing their environmental impact.
Another benefit of energy-efficient appliances is that you could enjoy incentives and tax credits just for installing them in your new home.
8. Low-maintenance floors
Hardwood floors are considered low maintenance, as it doesn’t take much effort to clean and keep them looking their best. If you install a gorgeous hardwood floor in your new home, you can be sure it will last a lifetime.
Tile floors are also durable and easy to maintain, which makes them a great choice for your custom home.
9. A high-performing HVAC system
A high-performing, ENERGY STAR® rated HVAC system is another must have. It will greatly reduce energy bills while making your home more comfortable throughout the year.
Plus, any high-performing system or appliance you install will help increase the value of your home.
10. A mud room
You need a mud room in your new home if you have kids and pets. This is a room where kids can leave their muddy shoes and their sports equipment and where you can wash and dry your dog.
A mud room needs a bench, many shelves and hooks, and a convenient pet washing station.
11. An outdoor living space
Finally, your dream home needs an inviting outdoor living space, such as a patio or a deck, where you can spend quality time with your friends and family.
An outdoor dining room, a fire pit, a fountain, and a lovely garden are all things you can plan for as you design your custom home.
Even if you include all the best must-have features in your home, you will still be happy to relax outside or entertain your guests in your yard.
