If you’re ready to build a custom home, then you may know that the floor plan options are limitless, and choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about finding a floor plan that looks great—you also need to choose one that works for your family and suits your needs. Before you find yourself trapped with a flawed plan, use these tips to find the perfect floor plan for your next custom home.

Start with the Basics

You can narrow down your options by deciding on a few basic features ahead of time. While you may love the idea of having everything on one level with a ranch, multi-level homes allow you to put more living space into a smaller area of the property. You should also consider the square footage that you need, how many bathrooms are appropriate based on the size of your family, and if you want an additional bedroom for guests.

Don’t Rush to Embrace Trends

While some trends come to stay, others will be ushered out as quietly as they slipped in. One example is the open floor plan. Hailed for a decade as the top choice among builders, it’s falling out of fashion because the noise travels more, untidy areas are impossible to hide, and there’s no privacy. While many people still love the open floor plan because it’s easier to keep an eye on children and they’re ideal for entertaining, you want to make sure that it’s the right choice for you. Before embracing any trend, take the time to evaluate your situation and see if it’s truly the right choice for you.

Ask the Professionals for Help

When you choose a company such as Alair Homes with custom homes and major renovations in Peterborough or another provider in your area, you can turn to them for more than just the framing and drywall work. An experienced builder can also provide you with more insight into different floor plans. They can help you choose layouts that may suit your family better or appeal to your sense of style. They can answer questions about the pros and cons, and they can help you make informed decisions.

Be Realistic About Pros and Cons

It’s easy to fall in love with a huge foyer because it looks great when you’re entertaining, but what will you use the space for the rest of the time? While you may fall in love with certain features of a plan, take a moment to consider the possible pitfalls. Another example is cathedral ceilings that look great but drive up energy bills. There are no right or wrong answers, but you’re more likely to love the finished product if you’ve considered potential problems ahead of time and made informed decisions.

Building a custom home is exciting, and you may be anxious to create a space that perfectly suits your needs today and can grow with you in the future. Don’t let the options overwhelm you. Taking the time to consider your needs and goals can help you narrow down the list. Reviewing the pros and cons of different options will also serve you well, and you can always ask your contractor for advice and guidance.

 

About the author: A recent college graduate from University of San Francisco, Anica loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she's used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty.