When It Comes to Buying a New, Custom-Built Home, the Little Things May Matter the Most
When It Comes to Buying a New, Custom-Built Home, the Little Things May Matter the Most
These little things are not the standard options or even the extravagant upgrades. They are the cool features or “wow factors” you didn’t know you needed, but once you’ve seen them, you really want them in your home. You can be struck by inspiration in a variety of ways: visiting a friend’s new home, scrolling through a favorite home design Pinterest board, or touring a model home. These “delighters” can help make your home more comfortable, convenient, and special for you and your family after you move in.
Wow Factors for Your Laundry Room
One standout feature is a laundry chute that allows you to pass your laundry basket from your bedroom directly into your laundry room.
“You open the shutters, put the laundry basket there, close the shutters, and when you want to do the laundry, the basket is there. You didn’t have to walk it through the house,”
says one industry expert. For added convenience, opt for a chute connecting a second-floor bedroom to a downstairs laundry room.
Other laundry room highlights include:
- Sorting stations with tables for folding and sinks for pre-treating stains.
- Drying rack closets with built-in racks for flat-drying clothing.
- Sliding barn doors to save space and hide machines when not in use.
Wow Factors for the Whole Family
Mudroom Magic
Cubbies in the mudroom offer personalized storage for each family member, from gym bags to backpacks.
“Cubbies are a great feature for families with kids who play sports or participate in activities,”
notes a real estate specialist.
Playful Spaces
- Reading nooks, climbing walls, or two-story slides from bedrooms to playrooms.
- Bunk bed rooms for hosting grandchildren or guests.
- Theater rooms with mini-fridges or game rooms for teens.
- In-law suites with private bathrooms for multi-generational households.
Wow Factors for Your ‘Fur Babies’
Pet-friendly features are increasingly popular:
- Mudroom dog stations with showers, beds, and hidden gates.
- Laundry room dog-washing stations for easy cleanup.
- Under-stair pet nooks or dedicated pet rooms.
- Aesthetic pet doors integrated during construction.
Wow Factors for Your Kitchen
Kitchens are ripe for innovation:
- Built-in hot water dispensers for quick drinks and cleaning.
- Hidden pantry refrigerators for extra storage.
- Indoor drinking fountains to reduce plastic waste.
- Built-in espresso machines for a caffeine boost with style.
Wow Factors for Your Backyard
Even small outdoor spaces can shine with features like:
- Remote-controlled porch screens and swings.
- Stone pizza ovens or bar windows for outdoor entertaining.
- Underwater pool speakers and firewood elevators.
Bringing It All Together
Start early by researching builders and touring model homes to discover what “delighters” are possible. Discuss your ideas with your builder to create a home that truly wows.
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