If you’re like most people, you’ve probably thought about building your dream home at one time or another. But, thinking about it and actually doing it are two different things! Building a home from scratch can seem like a formidable undertaking. However, in today’s real estate market, the average amount of time that a home stays on the market is 26 days which makes it challenging to buy an existing home.
Perhaps the time is right for a custom-built home. You have the opportunity to design a home to match your needs. From the number of bathrooms and bedrooms to the type of windows and countertops in your kitchen, the decisions are yours.. But, before putting your existing home on the market and starting to pack up all your possessions, here’s what you need to know about building a new home from the ground up.
You’ll need to buy land that’s zoned residential, apply for a construction loan, and find the right builder and contractors. Create a budget that works for you because the cost of building a home can vary significantly depending on the specifics. It’s common practice to include an overage clause that permits your builder to spend a specified percentage above the amount you agreed upon to finish the job; it’s usually 10%.
You’ll need to be flexible when it comes to the time it’s going to take from first breaking ground to your final walk-through and inspection. Between weather issues, various inspections, and delayed materials, you’re bound to run into bumps along the way. Sounds stressful? Consider the upside. You’ll have a home that is uniquely yours to enjoy for years to come.
Are you considering relocating to build your dream home? You’ll want to take a serious look at what the Central Valley of California has to offer.
The best California has to offer
The Central Valley of California is a great place to visit because of its close proximity to natural attractions like Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Park. However, it’s an even better place to live. With its low cost of living compared to other parts of California, families living and working on fixed budgets can afford to build a home from scratch that fits their needs as well as their budgets.
But, there are a lot of other benefits to moving to the Central Valley:
- Small towns with tight-knit communities and active main streets
- Great outdoor adventures
- Family friendly
- Close to popular destinations such as San Francisco, L.A., and Sacramento
- Abundant locally-grown produce
- Cultural diversity
Breaking ground
While homeownership may only be a dream for many families in other parts of California, that dream can become a reality by building a house in the Central Valley. You can find builders and contractors who are willing to work with you to build a home to suit your family.
Families that want to escape the high cost of living and the hustle and bustle of California’s metropolitan areas will find that Central Valley living offers something for everyone, including new neighbors and new friends.