Questions regarding new construction upgrade options
This is my first time posting to a forum so please excuse me if I am posting this to the wrong section. I am currently in the process of buying a new construction (approx 3,000 sq ft) through a builder. I have never purchased a new construction before and am on the fence about the following upgrades and would like your opinion on whether it makes sense to purchase them through the builder or get it done through a contractor after the home is built. I am not only concerned about the prices provided by the builder which I included below but that each upgrade would also result in higher property taxes as well. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
3 piece plumbing rough in for Walkout Basement – $2,000 – We plan to finish the basement a year after we move in.
Waterproofing walkout basement – $850
Master Bedroom tray ceiling – $1,700
Recessed lights in kitchen and 2 story family room – $200 PER recessed light – not sure how easy this would be to do after the fact without making large holes in the ceiling
Finished garage package (insulation and garage door opener) – $1,800
Ceiling fan pre-wire with 1 switch – $220 per room
Vent Microwave Outside – $380
Gas line for dryer – $300
Thanks for your time.
Replies
Those are all things I would do if price was no concern. In my opinion as a builder for nearly 40 years your builder is giving you a pretty good deal. Some of those prices seem low to me but it depends on the design of the house.
If the plumbing option in the basement involves the necessary floor drains for toilet, bath and sink, do it now. It's a lot of work later and there are other factors that may come into play to make it more complicated.
Don't know what is meant by waterproofing basement walkout. Water management in a basement shouldn't be an option.
Tray ceiling, invasive job later depending on the extent of what you call a tray ceiling. This is probably the only luxury item you have listed.
Personally, I don't like recessed lights, especially in the kitchen. There is no need to light the back of my head. If you want them, do it now.
Finished garage, easy DIY project later but that price is a good one.
Ceiling fan, Will there be a ceiling light fixture in the bedrooms? If so, that can be replaced with a fan/light unit and use the existing wiring and switch.
You don't vent a microwave unless it is also a vent hood. If you fry a lot of fish, might be a good idea, tough to do later.
No comment on a gas dryer, they are not common in my region.
Most of those items can only be done in te process of construction. Retrofitting them in later will cost far more for most of them. Prices seem fair, and by having the builder do it now, the cost is rolled into the mortgage loan