There are a lot of perks to buying a new construction home, from choosing the floor plan that’s right for you and your family, to getting to select the features and finishes that suit your personal taste. But with so many options and upgrades offered, deciding what will add the most value to your home and lifestyle can feel overwhelming. To help shed some light on some of the most impactful upgrades for a new construction home, we asked our Design Studio Specialist, Tiffany McDonald, to weigh in.
How can I decide which upgrades to invest in?
With a new construction home, upgrades can be divided into structural and non-structural, says Tiffany. Because structural options are harder to change down the road, I often advise homeowners to invest part (if not most) of their budget into those features first.
How do I allocate my budget?
When it comes to budget, it’s important to have a number in mind prior to visiting the studio for your appointment. Most homeowners invest the bulk of their money on the main floor of the home, since that’s where they spend most of their time, says Tiffany.
What are three of the most valuable upgrades for a new home?
1. A Tailored Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it’s the first space you’ll want to upgrade, says Tiffany. Choosing taller kitchen cabinets — especially those that extend to the ceiling — will impart a high-end, streamlined look in your kitchen as well as provide you with additional storage space. Other great upgrade options include a backsplash or top-of-the-line appliances, the specs of which are required at the selections appointment for opening measurements. For an elevated look, your choice of quartz or granite countertops are included as a standard feature in our kitchens.
2. Hardwood or Laminate Staircase & Flooring
One of the best upgrades that add value to your home is wood or laminate flooring throughout, says Tiffany. Cachet homes typically feature wood flooring or ceramic tile throughout the main floor, with carpet on the upper level and sometimes on the staircase. Removing carpet and running the same hardwood floor creates a seamless look, and it eliminates the challenge of having to match the exact colour of your floor in years to come.
3. A Spa-Like Principal Ensuite
While homeowners tend to invest the bulk of their budget into the main floor of their home, the principal ensuite is often an exception. Given that we start and end our day in our bedroom and bathroom, choosing to upgrade your ensuite will go a long way in making your daily routine that much more enjoyable, says Tiffany. Upgrading your shower, investing in a standalone tub or choosing high-end floor tile will make your bathroom that much more luxurious.
Read our blog for more design advice, including our comprehensive guide on the Cachet interior selections process.
