With abundant natural beauty, a thriving cultural scene, and a strong job market, Austin is quickly becoming the preferred destination for many transplants from all over the country. As a result, the housing market in Austin and the surrounding area is on fire. Many people moving into the area often find that homes move so quickly that they are not even able to put in an offer before the Sold sign goes up. A great alternative to purchasing an existing home is to build your own custom home. The process of moving to a new city or even a new state can be exciting, but it can also be stressful when you are not familiar with the area. This is naturally one of the most important decisions of your life and you want to make sure that you make the right decisions. By working with an experienced custom home builder in Austin, you can take advantage of the opportunity to build the home of your dreams even if you are new to the area.
A variety of decisions will need to be made as part of the homebuilding process, including the type, size, and style of home that you wish to build. If you are new to the area, you may be unfamiliar with what to expect. A great way to get started is to schedule an appointment with your selected builder to view galleries of homes they have built in the past. This is also the ideal opportunity for the builder to answer any questions that you might have about the building process or even Austin in general. You will also find that attending an annual parade of homes tour can be a great way to gain an idea of the various styles that are common to the area.
The selection of a lot is one of the most important decisions you will make when building a custom home. In Austin and the surrounding area, you will find an abundant array of options, so it is important to consider whether you wish to be near town or if you prefer a secluded feel. There are actually many options in the area that can provide you with the best of both worlds. Other factors to consider in choosing a location include whether you need to be in a certain school district. If you have children or you are planning to start a family in the future, this is a feature that you will certainly wish to consider.
It is also a good idea to give thought to the features and restrictions of the neighborhood where you build your home. Austin and the nearby area are home to a wonderful selection of neighborhoods. Each one has its own distinctive characteristics and feel. Covenants and restrictions can also vary from one neighborhood to another, so it is important to take the time to research each neighborhood you are considering so that you can make the best decision for your lifestyle.
Along with your chosen neighborhood, you also need to think about the lot you will purchase. Size can be an important consideration, as you need to make certain that the lot you purchase is large enough to accommodate the size of the Austin custom home that you plan to build. Additionally, think about whether you have plans to build any other outdoor structures. Do you have plans to install a swimming pool in the future? If so, you will need to make sure that the lot you purchase is large enough to comfortably accommodate a pool. Setback should also be considered. This is the amount of space required to leave between the edge of your property and the edge of your home.
Topography can prove to be vital to choosing a lot on which to build your home, as well. In Hill Country, you can find many lots that offer impressive views. Keep in mind that a lot with a slope may need more site preparation for the foundation. Drainage can also be a consideration.
Another factor to consider in planning the construction of a custom home in Austin is whether you desire outdoor living space. This is a popular trend in Austin and the surrounding area due to the mild weather experienced throughout much of the year and the gorgeous natural beauty. People just naturally want to be outdoors! Outdoor kitchens and fireplaces are now standard features in many custom homes. If you would like to include such features in your own home, make a point to speak to your custom home builder about the options available. It should be kept in mind that the cost for including outdoor living space will naturally increase the cost of your home’s construction. Still, many homeowners feel that the addition is definitely worth it, especially considering the additional space it offers for entertaining.