When you move into a new home there might be things that you’ll wish you’d done a bit more research on or thought more about. Let’s talk about four of the most common things people regret not looking into more. These are things that are easily overlooked during the planning stages, but may make a big difference to the comfort and liveability of your home.
flooring
It's important you consider what flooring you'd like to have in your home early on. There are so many options on the market and you should take the time to find out what they are. Flooring is such a vital component on you overall finished result and if you’re not 100% happy with it you’ll feel disappointed. Please read the case studies below on flooring as they are also an area where problems can occur.
telecommunications
Telecommunications includes home telephones, internet, data and cabling. Thinking about your telecommunications early can save you big dollars later. These days, effective telecommunications are essential to our lifestyle; however, they’re often overlooked at the vital planning stage. Your telecommunications requirements should be considered in conjunction with your electrical plan. We prefer to use a telecommunications specialist who focuses specifically on the most up-to-date advancements and technology.
smart home features
Smart homes are, for many, the homes of the future. Imagine every element of your home from security to lighting to blinds controlled from an iPad or phone, whether you're at home or on the other side of the world. If you like the thought of being able to manage the functions of your home from afar, you'll love what’s currently being offered in the world of smart homes. A smart home specialist will be up to date with all the latest technology and can help you decide if creating a smart home will be right for you.
heating & cooling
It's easy to assume that heating or cooling your home is straightforward. However, there are variables worth considering. While you can chat with your builder about your options, don’t assume they are aware of the latest technologies as, like most things these days, the products and trends are rapidly evolving. If you want to be fully informed about the latest heating and cooling technologies, it’s worth spending some time visiting a specialist who is a market leader when it comes to offering the latest products.
CASE STUDY
I just want to post a little warning in here. It’s about floating floor ie. Timber Veneer floorboards. My warning has nothing to do with the floating floor itself, it has to do with the cheap looking beading that project builders will often place over it to hide the gap between the floor and the skirting. What they do is put the skirting on, then the flooring and come back and put a laminated timber edging of beading in the corner where the floor meets the skirting to hide the gap. This is their cheapest option but in my opinion looks unappealing. The first you’ll know about this could be after they do it by which it’s too late! You can pay a little more for the extra work it takes to do this properly but you have to raise it at the time you choose the floor. I know the first time I came across it, I wasn’t told about it or given the option not to have it. Alternatively choose tiles or any of the awesome vinyl products they have around now. Above all else, just make sure you ask about the beading!
in summary
Don't rely solely on information provided by your builder when it comes to things like flooring, heating & cooling, telecommunications and smart homes. Do you own independent research so that you can choose the best options based on your budget.
quote
Consider that what you're being told is only have the information you should have
- Natalie Stevens
Disclaimer
This information is of the nature of general comment only, and does not represent professional advice nor should it be substituted for professional advice. Whilst attempts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we don't guarantee it's accuracy. Any information we provide is not intended to provide specific guidance for particular circumstances and it should not be relied on as the basis for any decision to take action or not take action on any matter which it covers. You should always obtain professional advice before making any decision to purchase property of any kind. We recommend you seek professional financial advice prior to entering into a contract of any kind. Build In Oz disclaims all responsibility and liability to any person, arising directly or indirectly from any person taking or not taking action based on the information in this course. Please refer to our privacy and disclosure statement for further information.
