What Are the Standard Features in New Homes?
The most common features in new homes are simple and functional. These usually include multiple bedrooms, fully equipped bathrooms, a kitchen, and a space for relaxing or dining. While these are the must-haves, the architecture, designs, and additional features can vary widely depending on the builder and the market. In the Chicago metro area, for instance, two-car garages are standard, with three-car garages only available if the lot is large enough. Basements can be an extra, depending on the lot and soil conditions.
The Open Concept: A Tired Favorite?
One of the most popular trends in new home design is the “open concept” where an expansive living space eliminates walls and doors. This can create a sense of openness and flow. However, the loss of designated storage and dining areas that were once part of separate rooms can lead to a diminished sense of function and privacy.
The term "open concept" is often overused and can be a bit cliché. It can be a useful feature if carefully thought out and planned. Unfortunately, many people get caught up in the idea of keeping up with the Joneses and may end up sacrificing essential amenities. Homes without built-in storage, separate laundry areas, or mudrooms may need additional space for these functions.
Before embracing the open concept, carefully consider the ramifications. Explore alternatives that can maintain space partition while maximizing the feeling of openness.
What to Expect When You Ask for a Cheapest Unit
When viewing new homes, it's essential to understand what constitutes a standard build versus a customized one. The cheapest unit in a complex is typically bare bones; it will often have cheap finishes, such as cabinets with minimal or no drawers, and thin carpeting. In contrast, the model home will showcase all the design choices and will usually cost about 50-100% more than the starting price, even after adjusting for size differences. Upgrades can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or even more, pushing the final cost to over $450,000 or $500,000 for a home initially listed at $350,000.
Standard Features in New Homes
Standard features in new homes can vary by region. In the Midwest, for instance, stained wood cabinets are common, while countertops are typically made of laminate with upgrades to Corian or granite. Bathrooms and vanities often feature cultured marble with onyx as the top tier upgrade. Carpeting is standard in most rooms, with sheet goods, vinyl, or ceramic as upgrades. Hardwood can sometimes be offered as an upgrade in place of carpeting – particularly in areas where buyers prefer a hard-surface floor.
Exiting and Upgrading Features
A few other standard features include masonry and hollow core doors, with solid core options as upgrades. Vinyl or wood windows with low-E glass as an upgrade. Flat ceilings are standard, with vaulted ceilings as an additional cost.
Roofs often default to three-tab shingles with architectural shingles as an upgrade. Additionally, some homes have vaulted or flat ceilings based on the specific design choices. Ethos Collaborative Architects, a reputable firm, notes that stone or brick exteriors are common upgrades, while vinyl siding is the standard finish.
Appliances and Additional Features
The inclusion of appliances varies greatly by market. In some places, no appliances are included, while others may have standard appliances such as a dishwasher, range, and disposal, with refrigerators and laundry as upgrades. Water conditioning, including softeners or filters, is another feature that can vary depending on the area's water service.
Fireplaces are not always standard in new homes, and air conditioning, though common in many parts of the country, may not be available in certain regions. Additionally, some towns require lawns to prevent erosion, leading to sod being laid by builders, while in other places, the backyard is bare, allowing buyers to landscape as they choose.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the standard and extra features in new homes is crucial for making informed decisions. While some features are universal, others can vary significantly based on the region, builder, and local market. Always ask the builder about upgrades, finishes, and appliances before closing on a new home to ensure the quality meets your expectations.