Building is an exciting process, but it is also a large investment that requires extensive planning. If you’ve never done it before, the first step is to find a general contractor to complete the job. Once this is complete, follow these important do’s and don’ts to help the process go as smoothly as possible.

Do:

Stick to your budget.

A new home builder will give you a quote for the project based on your design specifications. However, it's common when building a new home to want to change the plan and request additional features, particularly early in the process.

Stick to your initial budget in the planning stages to ensure you have enough funds in case of an emergency. Determining the features you need versus those you could do without is an excellent way to stay on track.

Research before choosing a lot for your home.

Selecting a lot for your new home is just as crucial as planning its interior design. This is because the condition and layout of the land can impact how well construction goes. For example, your general contractor may need to prep the lot before construction if drainage is poor or there are large trees in the way. This adds time and money to your initial plans. 

Don’t:

Get too attached to your building plan.

Although preparing your design is important to make a project go smoothly, it should only be thought of as a loose plan. Many homeowners have a vision of how their home will look well before the project starts. However, keep in mind that plans may need to be adapted. It might be more cost-effective to modify the home's basement design to suit sloped terrain rather than try to grade it or install retaining walls, for instance. Permits and zoning can also impact what you can build and where. Being flexible will help you reach the best long-term solution. 

Forget to plan for delays.

It’s important to have a loose idea of how many months it will take to finish a project. However, with so many people involved in the process, it can be tough to follow a strict schedule. Much like a chain reaction, if one shipment of products or materials is late, the entire project can be pushed back. Setting up a contingency plan and saving some extra money can help relieve stress if your project is delayed for any reason.

If you are searching for a trusted general contractor for your new construction project, contact Bryan Bell Construction Inc. in Mountain Home, AR. With 30 years of experience in the field, we specialize in home building and remodeling for clients throughout the Twin Lakes area. We also offer interior and exterior design services that fit your schedule and budget requirements. Visit our website to learn more about our additional services, or give us a call at (870) 424-6969 today.