Building a home is a big task; it not only takes up a good amount of time, but also money. As a matter of fact, building or buying a home is the biggest single investment most people will ever undertake in their life. So, before you leap into the process, here are the important steps involved in making your dream home a reality:
1. Know your numbers
Your first step should be a visit to your lending institution. You need to know how much money is available to you based on your assets/wealth acquisition. Knowing your numbers puts everything in perspective so monies can now be allocated to each stage. As you read on you will realize why this step is so important and should be done first.
2. Acquire your lot
Finding your piece of the rock (if you haven’t already) is the next step. Your house plans and your overall project cost will be dependent on your lot properties.
3. Design your home
Here is where the fun really begins. Hiring a reputable draughtsman or architect to design your home and to make the application to the Town and Country Planning Department is important. Remember you already know your budget therefore your draughtsman or architect must design with that in mind.
4. Hire your project team
At this point in time you should hire your contractor and/or project manager and any other persons needed for your project. I always recommend hiring a quantity surveyor to give you an idea of your project cost. This will be especially helpful if your project goes out to tender.
5. Arrange Financing
With designs, specifications, quotations and contracts in place it’s now time to arrange financing. Make sure to call ahead of time to get the list of necessary documents needed for this process to proceed smoothly.
6. Start building and Manage Your Project
It’s time to start building; time to make your dream a reality. Remember you are the most important member of the project team, so get INVOLVED! Make regular inspections and if something doesn’t look right don’t be afraid to ask questions.
7. Move in
Building has finally been completed. Collect your keys from the contractor and move into your home as a happy camper. Please keep in mind that the house needs to be maintained to keep it in tip top shape.
Remember understanding the entire process would help you go about the work in a more organized way, avoid costly mistakes and make your dream home become a reality!
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