Avoid These 13 Customization Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make When Designing Their Pre-Engineered Home - Hapi Homes

Avoid These 13 Customization Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make When Designing Their Pre-Engineered Home

June 18, 2024

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Congratulations! You’ve made it to the exciting stage of designing your dream home. As a millennial, you crave a space that reflects your unique style and functionality needs.

Pre-engineered homes from Hapi Homes offer the perfect canvas for customization, allowing you to personalize your space without the hassle of traditional construction. But with all that creative freedom comes the potential for pitfalls.

According to a recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) survey, 72% of first-time homebuyers need to correct their mistakes during the customization process, leading to stress, delays, and even budget overruns.

Don’t let that happen to you! Here at Hapi Homes, we guide you through the exciting world of pre-engineered home customization and help you avoid the 13 most common mistakes first-time buyers make.

Part 1: Planning for pre-engineered perfection

Mistake #1: Forgetting the “Future You” – Designing for today’s needs and tomorrow’s dreams

We get it – you’re itching to design a space that reflects your lifestyle. But hold on a sec! It’s essential to consider your future needs as well.

Are you planning on starting a family?

Do you dream of having a dedicated home office space for your side hustle?

Thinking ahead and incorporating some flexibility into your design can save you a lot of hassle (and potentially money).

For example, opting for our accessory dwelling units (ADU) with a convertible guest room that could later transform into a nursery or home office is a smart investment.

Mistake #2: Ignoring the Floorplan – Understanding the Limitations & Advantages of Pre-Engineered Design

Pre-engineered homes offer a variety of stylish and functional floorplans. But it’s important to remember that these layouts are designed with efficiency and structural integrity in mind.

While some customization is possible, there may be limitations to extensive structural changes.

The good news? Modular floorplans are meticulously crafted to optimize space and flow.

Here at Hapi Homes, our architect and design teams can help you understand the specific layout of your chosen model and explore creative customization options that work within the existing framework.

Mistake #3: Underestimating the Power of “Small Tweaks” – Maximizing Space and Functionality with Smart Design Choices

Remember to underestimate the transformative power of seemingly small tweaks! Strategic placement of furniture, clever storage solutions, and well-chosen lighting can completely transform the feel of your modular home.

Consider incorporating built-in shelving to maximize vertical space, utilizing space-saving furniture like murphy beds, or opting for open floor plans to create a spaciousness.

Efficient space utilization is crucial for designing a tiny home or a larger space.

Part 2: Budget Bliss: Avoiding Customization Cost Creep

Mistake #4: Sticker Shock! Failing to Factor in Upgraded Features and Material Costs

One of first-time homebuyers’ biggest mistakes is not setting a realistic budget. Pre-engineered homes can be more affordable, but costs can quickly increase if youre not careful.

Excitement about customization can easily lead to budget-busting decisions. Before you get swept away with all the upgrade options, remember to factor in the cost of each customization.

Here at Hapi Homes, we offer complete transparency in our  and 3 different options to satisfy your needs. You’ll receive a detailed breakdown of the base price of your chosen modular home, along with clear pricing for any upgrades or customizations you select.

Begin by clearly understanding your financial situation. Include all potential expenses, such as land purchase, utility hookups, and interior customization.

Mistake #5: Nixing the “Needs vs. Wants” List – Prioritizing Essentials and Avoiding Impulse Upgrades

Getting caught up in the desire for all the latest bells and whistles is easy. But before you splurge on those fancy countertops or high-end appliances, take a step back and create a clear “needs vs. wants” list.

Prioritize essential upgrades, such as energy-efficient appliances or additional storage solutions, that will significantly improve your quality of life. Impulse upgrades for purely aesthetic reasons can quickly inflate your budget – so prioritize function first!

Mistake #6:  Neglecting Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is good for the environment and for your wallet. To reduce utility bills, incorporate energy-efficient features such as high-quality insulation, energy-efficient windows, and smart thermostats.

Investing in energy-efficient design can lead to significant savings over time. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes prioritizing energy efficiency can save up to 30% on utility bills annually.

And here at Hapi Homes, we’ve got you covered. All our homes are built with our light gauge steel frames (LGSF), which are the backbone of sustainability.

Mistake #7: Forgetting the “Hidden Costs” – Factoring in Permits, Installation Fees, and Potential Delays

The cost of customization goes beyond the materials themselves. Remember to factor in potential permitting fees, installation costs for certain upgrades, and even the possibility of delays if specific materials need to be ordered.

Here at Hapi Homes, we’ll provide a comprehensive breakdown of all potential costs associated with your chosen customizations, including estimated permitting and installation costs.

This transparency allows you to plan your finances accordingly and avoid any surprises down the road. Consider setting aside 10-15% of your budget as a buffer for unexpected costs.

Mistake #8: Over-customizing hits the resale value

While personalizing your home is essential, over-customization can hurt its resale value. Avoid overly niche features that might not appeal to future buyers. Instead, opt for timeless designs and neutral color schemes.

Features catering to specific tastes or needs can make your home less attractive to a broader audience. Stick to popular and functional design elements that enhance your living experience and your home’s marketability.

Part 3: Style Savvy: Creating a Home that Reflects You

Mistake #9: Trend Chasing – Designing for Longevity and Personal Style, Not Just the Latest Fads

Trends come and go, but your home is a long-term investment. While incorporating some trendy elements is fun, focusing on creating a timeless design aesthetic that reflects your unique personality is essential.

Think about classic styles you love and materials that will endure the test of time. This will ensure your pre-engineered home feels fresh and stylish for years.

Choosing cheap materials might save money initially, but they can lead to higher maintenance costs and quicker wear and tear. Invest in durable, sustainable materials that will withstand time and reduce long-term costs.

Consider the maintenance needs of different materials. Low-maintenance options can save you time and money in the long run. For example, our light gauge steel frames (LGSF) are not only known for their durability but also for reducing environmental impact.

Mistake #10: Ignoring the “Flow” – Creating a Cohesive Look and Feel Throughout Your Pre-Engineered Space

A cohesive design makes your home feel comfortable and inviting. Consider how each space will connect and flow into the next when customizing your modular home.

Consider using a consistent color palette throughout your home or employing similar design elements like lighting fixtures or hardware. Here at Hapi Homes, our architect and design teams can help you create a cohesive design plan that seamlessly ties your entire pre-engineered home together.

Mistake #11: Sample Swatch Smackdown – Understanding Lighting and Material Variations in Your Pre-Engineered Home

How light interacts with materials can drastically alter your customizations’ final look and feel. Don’t rely solely on small sample swatches when making decisions.

Natural light improves mood, productivity, and overall well-being. To maximize natural light, design your home with large windows, skylights, and open layouts.

Good ventilation is also essential for maintaining indoor air quality and comfort. Incorporate design elements like operable windows and ventilation systems to ensure fresh air circulation throughout your home.

Here at Hapi Homes, we’ve got you covered. Our LGSFs are made to enhance insulation and reduce energy needs and carbon output.

Part 4: The Hapi Homes Advantage: Your Customization Journey Made Easy

Mistake #12: Going it Alone – Utilizing the Expertise of Your Hapi Homes Architect & Design Team

You don’t have to navigate the world of customization alone!

DIY customization might seem appealing, but professional advice is invaluable. Architects and designers bring expertise to help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your home is functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Here at Hapi Homes, we understand that first-time homebuyers may have questions or concerns. That’s why we offer a dedicated team of experienced professionals passionate about helping you create your dream pre-engineered home.

Our experts can provide insights into the latest trends, materials, and technologies. They can also help you navigate building codes and regulations, ensuring your design is compliant and safe.

From understanding pre-engineered design limitations to maximizing space and functionality, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. They’ll help you translate your vision into reality while keeping your budget and style preferences in mind.

Mistake #13: Ignoring Local Building Codes and Regulations

Building codes and regulations vary by location and must be followed to avoid legal and financial penalties. Research local requirements and work with your builder to ensure compliance.

Non-compliance can result in fines, legal issues, and even the demolition of non-compliant structures. Ensure your design meets all local codes to avoid these costly consequences.

Customizing Your Pre-Engineered Dream Home with Confidence: Avoiding Mistakes and Creating a Space You Love

Customizing your pre-engineered home is an exciting and rewarding process. By avoiding these 13 common mistakes first-time buyers make, you can ensure your home is beautiful and functional.

Remember to set a realistic budget, plan for future needs, consult professionals, choose the right materials, prioritize energy efficiency, utilize space effectively, comply with local regulations, balance customization with resale value, maximize natural light and ventilation, and integrate ample storage solutions.

Ready to design your dream home?

Start your journey with Hapi Homes and discover the endless possibilities of modular homes. Contact us today to learn more about our customizable options and professional design services. Let’s build your future together!

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful, functional, and value-rich pre-engineered home that suits your lifestyle and future needs.