Custom house or standard house plan? Building your house is a key step in your life. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or already a homeowner looking for your dream home, opting for a custom home is a big decision. Unlike the standard plan, a custom-made home adapts perfectly to your needs, desires and lifestyle. This choice guarantees not only optimal comfort on a daily basis, but also a sustainable enhancement of your real estate assets. Discover the benefits of custom construction and why it is the ideal solution for a unique and personalized home project.
Building your house is one of the most important decisions you can make. Whether you are a first-time buyer or a homeowner looking to carry out the project of your dreams, choosing between a custom-made house and a standard plan can seem like a major challenge. This choice will determine not only your daily comfort, but also the value of your wealth in the long term.
In this article, we’ll compare these two options in terms of cost, customization, timelines, and much more, to help you make the choice that meets your needs and preferences.
Table of Contents
What is a custom-made house?
A bespoke home, or “custom house”, is completely designed according to your specific needs, personal tastes and requirements. It offers an unparalleled level of customization and detail, making each home a unique project.
Advantages of custom houses
- Personalized design : Create a space that perfectly fits your lifestyle and needs.
- Attention to detail : The construction process emphasizes superior finishes and materials.
- Higher resale value : According to data, a custom house offer a 15% higher resale value than standard-plan homes.
- Improved satisfaction : Owners of custom house report a 20% higher satisfaction rate due to better adapted living spaces.
However, these benefits come at a cost. The budget needed for a custom house is usually higher, and construction times can be longer due to customization.
What is a standard plan house?
On the other hand, a house with a standard plan is based on a predefined design. These plans are often proposed by builders as part of large housing estates or repeated models.
Advantages of standard-plan houses
- Reduced cost : Standard-plan homes typically cost 10-15% less.
- Shorter lead times : Construction can be completed in as little as 6-9 months.
- Simplified decisions : With pre-established plans, the choice is faster and less complex.
Limitations of standard-plan houses
- Limited customization : Design options are often limited, making it difficult to adapt to specific needs.
- Lower resale potential : These homes may have a lower resale value compared to custom homes.
- Reduced satisfaction : Interiors do not always perfectly meet the expectations or preferences of the occupants.
How to choose between a custom house and a standard plan
Before moving forward with your construction project, here are some essential factors to consider to make the best choice.
Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to invest in your home. Custom homes may require a larger budget, but they offer better value in the long run. On the other hand, a house with a standard plan can be an economical option if you can afford it.
Design Preferences
Ask yourself this question: do you want a unique home or are you ready to go for a predefined design? If you have a specific lifestyle or want special features, a custom home is probably the best choice.
Delay
Do you have a deadline or strict time constraint? The construction times for a house with a standard plan are much shorter, which may be suitable if you are looking for a quick solution.
Specific needs
Consider things like the number of bedrooms, special needs for outdoor or indoor spaces, and future features like renewable energy or home workspaces.
Our expert advice
To make your decision easier, we recommend that you follow these steps:
- Consult with professionals : Architects, builders and designers can give you a realistic overview of your options.
- Do thorough research : Compare companies, ask for quotes, and learn about their reputation.
- Visit show homes : This will give you a clearer idea of what is right for you (and what is not).
- Get inspired : Participate in online forums, ask friends and family, or explore ideas on Pinterest and Houzz.
The home that meets your dreams and needs
The decision between a custom-made house and a standard plan house should not be taken lightly. It depends closely on your priorities, your vision, your budget, and even the time you are willing to devote to this project.
At Plans Design, we specialize in designing bespoke homes that are perfectly suited to our clients’ individuality and lifestyle. At the same time, we are continuously expanding our library of standard plans, in order to meet all your needs accurately and efficiently.
Our architects and designers work closely with you to design a home that meets all your requirements. Whether you need extra space to accommodate a large family, a home office, or a luxurious master suite, we can create a plan to suit your needs. We also take into account the particularities of the land as well as any building code constraints to ensure that your home is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
In addition to custom design, we also offer renovation services for those who want to upgrade or expand their current home. Our designers can help you transform your space using the latest trends in interior design while staying within your budget.
To get personalized advice tailored to your construction goals, contact us for a free consultation.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to share it with your friends or family who are considering a similar project!
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference in cost between these two types of houses?
Standard-plan homes typically cost between 10% and 15% less than custom homes. This is because these plans are already pre-designed and do not require any additional work on the part of the architects. The construction process is also faster because the standard plans have already been used several times, which reduces the lead times. However, this does not mean that standard-plan homes lack customization. In fact, most companies offer a variety of options to customize your home to your specific tastes and needs. Minor modifications such as adding a window or changing the siding
How long does it take to build a custom house compared to a standard plan house?
A custom-built home can take around 12 to 18 months, while a standard-plan home can be built in 6 to 9 months. Building a custom home requires detailed plans and precise design to meet the client’s specific needs. It can sometimes take longer, but the end result is worth it. Custom homes also offer freedom of choice in all aspects of design, from architectural style to building materials. Guests can choose their own interior layout as well as unique features such as a wine cellar or a private cinema room. With a custom-made home, the possibilities are endless and the end result will be totally unique and tailored to the needs
How involved can I be in the design process?
With a custom-made home, you have almost complete control over the process. With a standard plan, your involvement is limited to predefined choices.
Are there specific financing options for custom homes?
Yes, some banks and financial institutions offer loans specific to the construction of a custom-made house.
What are the main challenges of each option?
Custom-made houses often involve a larger budget and longer deadlines. Standard-plan homes, while cheaper, may lack customization and long-term satisfaction.
