How wonderful! You’ve found the perfect plot of land, and now you can build your dream home. Everything may start exciting when discussing a new house, but it will require work and making several choices when it’s time to turn those ideas into reality.
Your first choice is to decide on a house plan. But should you choose a custom or stock floor plan? What is your best option?
Of course, you want a house that will meet your family’s needs. Should you go with a stock floor plan that gets close to what you want or start from scratch? Although you may think it’s easier to take a stock plan, that’s not true! Below are several things to be aware of before deciding between a custom or stock floor plan for your dream home.
But first, Jewell Homes explains their differences.
What is a Custom Floor Plan?
A custom plan is intended for a particular location and is uniquely designed for a specific client. The client can choose the layout, room sizes, and architectural details. It is tailored to their particular needs, and the homeowner can add their personal touches.
Best of all, a custom home plan can be adjusted to the property’s layout, whether it has a slope, a lake view, mature trees, or something else to work around. It also considers the lifestyle of the family, potential special needs, and what may happen in the future.
What is a Stock Floor Plan?
A stock floor plan is ready-made by an architect or home builder. It’s usually more generic and has been chosen by many clients. Everything is already laid out, and the homeowner does not have to make as many decisions.
Things to be Aware of When Choosing a Custom or Stock Floor Plan
Many times, using a stock floor plan works fine. Of course, this also means that there may be copies of the same house throughout the community. In addition, if time is a factor, you may consider using a stock floor plan because designing a custom home can be a long process.
But here are several points to keep in mind if you decide to choose a stock floor plan:
1. Closet and Room Sizes May Be Insufficient
When using a stock plan, be sure to look at room dimensions, count the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and decide if there is enough storage space. Is the floor plan realistic? Are the hallways wide enough? Measure your existing furniture (even if you plan to purchase new) to determine whether it will fit where you want to put it. Ask the builder if they’ve used this plan before – and if you can tour the finished home. You might be surprised at how different it feels in real life versus on paper.
2. Stock Floor Plans are Created for Mass Appeal
These plans are designed to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. Stock plans do not have a particular family or homeowner in mind and are intended for general use. Although it may provide a good start, stock plans often need additional work to make them fit your family’s needs.
3. They Don’t Anticipate Future Needs
When working with a custom home builder, they will ask about what you want now and what you’ll need in the future. Topics such as:
● Will you grow your family?
● Do you need extra storage space?
● Are your elderly parents planning to live with you?
● Will you need a “hang out space” for teenagers eventually?
● Do you anticipate hosting large holiday gatherings?
Only a custom floor plan can thoughtfully anticipate your needs for the next 10 or 20 years. A stock floor plan is not necessarily as customizable.
4. Stock Floor Plans Can Be Costly to Change
Stock floor plans are rather generic by their very definition. You can make a few minor changes (add a window, move the closet, etc.), but if you decide to make major changes such as enlarging the living room or reversing a kitchen layout, expect to be charged a significant amount of money. You may as well start from scratch and create a custom plan.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Choosing a Custom Floor Plan
The most obvious benefit of choosing a custom house plan is getting what you want. You will work with a designer or architect and offer your input on the style of home, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, elements and personal touches you’ve always wanted, etc. Together, your vision becomes a reality.
Additionally, a custom plan can be created to accommodate unique features on the property. This includes the best layout for the perfect view, working around mature trees, a walk-out lower level on a sloping lot, and more.
You and the builder will have fewer construction issues and headaches if you create your house plan to fit your lot and your vision for the ideal house.
One of the only disadvantages to choosing a custom house plan versus a stock plan is that it may take more time to create. You will regularly communicate with a design professional to express your ideas and review the drawings. Frequent trips to the builder’s office may be inconvenient. You will also have to make many decisions about layout, room sizes, exterior trim and details, cabinet design elements, interior flooring, and more. If making decisions is not your strong suit, you may prefer a stock plan with fewer choices.
Finally, because this custom house plan has never been built before, before any construction, all the contractors working on your home must review the plans carefully. Answer all questions and make sure they understand what you want.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Stock House Plan
The most significant disadvantage to choosing a stock home plan is knowing your house is not unique. You may drive through your neighborhood and see the same place repeatedly. If you want to make changes and give it a “personal touch,” it is essential to remember that you will be limited as to what those changes can be.
For example, you may only be able to choose a different color of siding or tile or to move the front door to the right or left.
On the other hand, if you don’t have the time or inclination to make many decisions, the advantage of a stock floor plan is that you won’t have to.
After considering the advantages and disadvantages of custom or stock floor plans, it is most likely that the custom plan is the better choice.
Jewell Homes has All-Inclusive Pricing
Many potential homeowners see the words “Custom Floor Plan” and automatically believe it’s too expensive. But when you work with Jewell Homes, designing your dream home may not be out of your budget!
Jewell Homes offers “All-inclusive pricing.” Before you sign any contracts, they show you exactly what your new house will cost to build. That includes everything right down to the light fixtures, water heater, finishing touches, and flooring. There are no surprises when you work with the professionals at Jewell Homes. You know all the costs ahead of time to stay within your budget.
Jewell Homes Can Build Your Dream Home
Contact Jewell Homes today for a free consultation. Find out how to make your vision become a reality.
Their custom floor plans will create what you’ll need now and what you’ll want in the future. Design a floor plan with space to entertain, grow your family, or invite visitors to stay.
Take a look at their most popular blueprints, and then add a covered porch, an extra bedroom, or a home office. They can do it for you! Give the best custom builders in southeastern Wisconsin a call today and make your dreams come true.
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