Building a new home is a monumental investment and an opportunity to create a space that reflects your personal style. While it’s essential to budget wisely, certain upgrades and features can significantly elevate your living experience and add long-term value. Splurging on specific elements during construction can offer both immediate benefits and future rewards. Your new home will not only more comfortable but also more functional.

Bear with us as you read through our recommended upgrades list… While these are not the most exciting aspects of building a home, they are worthwhile and add long-term value. Continue reading to discover upgrades that are worth considering for your new home!

What things should I splurge on when building or remodeling a home?

General Construction

• Mechanical Room – Drop your mechanical room floor a couple of inches to protect the rest of the level, in case you ever have a leak in the room
• Insulation – The more and better quality insulation you include, the better your home will insulate. It will also save you money on your electricity and gas bill.
• Windows – Windows play a factor in energy efficiency of your home, plus you don’t want them to leak.
• Engineered studs behind cabinet & tile walls – They add structural support and reduce the risk of warping or shifting. Plus they lead to greater durability over time.
• Level 5 Drywall Finish – This is a high-quality surface with exceptional smoothness and uniformity.
• Leafguard – Add Leafguard to gutters to save you a ton of time, money, and stress.

Millwork

• Wood Stairs & Exposed End Caps – This will take your home to the next level, especially if you include a carpet runner.
• Stain Grade Wood – Opt for a wood that is harder and more stable, like oak or poplar. Pine is very soft and it expands and contracts easily if you live in an area with temperature swings.
• Aluminum Frames – Include aluminum frames on all of your exterior doors.

Plumbing & HVAC

• RO System – If you don’t have filtered fridge water, consider an RO system so you drink clean, filtered water.
• Plumbing Fixtures – Don’t cheap out on plumbing fixtures themselves like faucets and shower heads.

Flooring

• Flooring – To avoid costly repairs in the future, invest in durable, high quality flooring. For wood we highly suggest engineered hardwood. Otherwise, we like to use LVT and LVP.
• In Floor Heat – We recommend wirsbo or electric. Wirsbo is more expensive upfront, but it costs less to run in the long run.

Electrical

• Generator – This is a life saver during storms since it ensures a reliable backup power source during power outages.
• Floor Outlets – We recommend floor outlets in places you commonly plug cords in like living rooms and offices.
• Tread Lights – Add tread lights along your stairs to see in the dark without turning on a big light.
• Dimmers – Add dimmers in main rooms like living rooms and kitchens to control the brightness of the light.

Garage

• Epoxy Floor – This provides a durable, easy-to-clean surface. It resists stains, chemicals, and abrasion, while enhancing the overall aesthetic and longevity of the garage floor.
• Trench Drain – We recommend a 16 foot long trench drain in your garage.
• Garage Heater – This is especially worth it if you spend time in your garage on projects in the winters.

Incorporating thoughtful splurges into your new home build can transform it from a standard structure into a personalized sanctuary. By investing in high-quality materials and features, you enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your home. While these investments need careful consideration, they often lead to greater satisfaction and long-term value!

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