How Much Do Custom Home Upgrades Cost? A Builder Upgrades Price List!

Building a custom home is like an exciting journey, where every step brings you closer to the home of your dreams. However, the joy of creating a custom-made living space often comes with a multitude of decisions, especially regarding upgrades and their associated costs. This article provides a builder upgrade price list, helping you understand the potential expenses you might face when crafting your perfect house.

What Does the Base Price Cover?

When embarking on a custom home-building adventure, one of the first surprises might be the difference between the model home you’ve fallen in love with and the “basic” home you’re purchasing. The model homes usually include upgrades and additions, making it more enticing but also considerably more expensive than the base price of the house.

The base price typically includes the cost of standard building materials, basic fixtures, and the construction labor. However, any additional features, superior quality materials, or design enhancements fall under the category of upgrades, resulting in extra costs.

The Reality of Upgrade Costs

The cost of common upgrades can vary significantly depending on the nature of the upgrade, the builder, and your personal preferences. For instance, if you’re mesmerized by the model home’s layout, replicating it could cost you a significant sum. However, you can strategically choose where to invest, thus maintaining a reasonable budget.

According to the new construction new home upgrades price list, the cost of upgrades can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. For instance, a complete kitchen overhaul with high-end appliances, premium countertops, and an elegant backsplash could cost as much as a luxury vehicle. On the other hand, a minor upgrade like adding a window sill could cost you a few hundred dollars.

Decoding the Cost of Popular Upgrades

Let’s dive into some common regular and design upgrades and their associated costs. The new home upgrades price list provided here is an approximation and may vary based on the builder and the quality of materials used.

Wood Flooring

Upgrading to wood floors throughout the house can cost between $20,000 and $40,000, depending on the brand and quality.

Kitchen Upgrades

Upgrading the kitchen can consist of many things. Some of these upgrades can consist of new appliances, quartz countertops, light fixtures, and even cabinet hardware can cost upwards of $30,000.

Additional Bedroom

Adding an extra bedroom could cost around $15,000.

Raised Ceilings

Raising the ceilings could add approximately $10,000 to your bill.

Bathroom Upgrades

Expanding the shower, adding a freestanding tub, improving plumbing fixtures, and upgrading the flooring can easily cost over $10,000.

Interior and Exterior Doors

Upgrading exterior and interior doors can vary widely in cost, depending largely on material quality and design complexity. For standard interior doors, homeowners might spend around $200 to $500 per door including installation, while high-end options can exceed $1,000 each. Exterior doors, which require more robust materials and security features, typically range from $500 to $2,000 or more. Custom doors and premium materials like solid wood or high-security features can significantly increase these costs.

The Kitchen Comes First

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, making it a prime candidate for upgrades. Investing in high-quality cabinets and energy-efficient appliances can add significant value to your home and enhance your daily living experience.

Some builders include popular kitchen upgrades like stainless steel appliances and polished quartz countertops in the base price of the home.

Financing Your Upgrades

The good news is that most builders allow you to roll the cost of upgrades into your mortgage. This means that you won’t have to pay upfront for these enhancements. However, it’s essential to remember that this will increase your monthly mortgage payments, so you should carefully consider your budget and borrowing limits.

Value Considerations for Upgrades

When choosing upgrades, it’s crucial to consider their value in the long run. Ask yourself whether the upgrade will add value to your home and make it more attractive to future buyers. However, avoid over-improving for the neighborhood, as this could lead to a loss when selling the home.

To Upgrade Now or Later?

If you’re working with a tight budget and trying to save money, you might want to consider which upgrades you can add later. For example, you could plan for unfinished spaces like basements or attics, opt for cheaper fixtures initially, or postpone outdoor additions.

However, some upgrades, like energy-efficient features and an open floor plan, can significantly increase your home’s value and should be considered during the initial construction phase.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the builder upgrades price list can help you make informed decisions about where to invest your money throughout your entire house. Remember to prioritize upgrades that add the most value to your home and align with your personal preferences and lifestyle needs.

Ready to embark on your custom home-building journey? Contact Coastal Plains Homes today. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the process and help you make the most of your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should you spend on new construction homes' upgrades?

It’s recommended to budget about 10-20% of the base price of a new home for upgrades, depending on your preferences and the impact on the home’s future resale value.

Are builder upgrades negotiable?

Yes, builder upgrades are often negotiable. Builders may be willing to offer deals or discounts on upgrades, especially if they help close the sale of the home.

Are custom builds expensive?

Custom builds are typically more expensive than standard models because they involve tailored design and materials, which increase the overall cost. However, the actual cost is hard to give as prices fluctuate.

Should I do flooring with a builder?

Deciding whether to do flooring with the builder depends on cost comparison and the quality of options offered. It might be more cost-effective to upgrade through the builder if they offer competitive prices and quality materials.

Should I ask my real estate agent before I make upgrades?

Yes, consulting your real estate agent before making upgrades can be beneficial. They can provide advice on which upgrades might increase the home’s value and appeal to future buyers, and which might not be worth the investment.