The concept of Universal Design consists of integrating unique features into home plans in an effort to enhance comfort and convenience for today’s lifestyle, combined with the ability to adapt to changing needs in the future without extensive remodeling. The features are virtually invisible and are certainly not obvious, but these homes make life much easier for everyone in the household. Because opening doors with arms full of groceries is as difficult at age 30 as it is at 70, for example, universal design homes use lever-type door handles. There is a long list of universal design features that homeowners can pick and choose from as they design a home that is safe, comfortable, visitable, and easily used by people of almost any age or physical ability.
What makes a home ‘ageless’? It simply means that it was thoughtfully designed considering the comfort and needs of people of all ages and physical characteristics! It doesn’t matter if you are young or old, short or tall, healthy or ill. You might have a disability or be a prize-winning athlete. You may have experienced a recent surgery or sprained an ankle or hurt your back. You may be a personal trainer in perfect health working at a local fitness center. It doesn’t really matter. Because of universal design, people who are very different can all enjoy the same home. And that home will be there for all its inhabitants even when their needs change.
However, the good news is by asking a few simple questions of your potential custom home builder, you can quickly get a feel for what the builder is all about. Whether you set up an interview by phone, e-mail or in person, don’t be afraid to take some time and come back with follow-up questions. Leave no stone left unturned, so that you and your home project are protected from unprofessional home builders. You may find that a face-to-face interview is ideal when it comes to really getting a good idea about the builder and his style of business and home construction. Regardless of the type of interview you conduct, be sure to include the following questions:
Home building is a fluid process that is difficult to control at all times. Things tend to take longer than anticipated and there are often problems and situations that you simply didn’t plan on.
House Construction Variables You Can’t Always Control
Let’s look at some variables that you’ll have little, if any, control over if and when they happen:
· Weather delays
· Manufacturing and delivery issues
· Workers getting sick or injured or called to other emergencies
· Returns of defective products
· Necessary changes to the design
· Inspections that failed and other “do-overs”
The bottom line is that surprises happen and people make mistakes. Everyone who builds must take this into account and plan accordingly.
Realistic Expectations Make for a Better Experience
What is a more realistic time frame? If we look at a fairly average size custom home of about 2000-2500 s.f., for an owner builder managing his or her own project, 9 to 12 months is far more realistic.
So, set your sites, your budget, and your financing for longer and you’ll reduce the stress and frustration caused by missed deadlines. This will make your home-building adventure more enjoyable!
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