5 Steps to Prepare For Your Pre-Start
Doing the pre-start for you new home can be overwhelming. There are so many choices to make from the colours and style of your front elevation to the type of window treatments that you want. Pre-Start meetings can take anywhere from 1-2 hours to 5-6 hours over multiple days depending on how prepared you are. Here’s our 5 tips for how to prepare for your pre-start and make it as stress free and efficient as possible!
- Look at the Big Picture. Decide on the overall style of home you are looking to achieve. Is it ultra modern or perhaps has a laid back beach vibe? Do you like sleek styles or more texture? The best way to decide on your style is to collect images that resonate with you. Over time, you will start to see a theme emerge. It’s important to bring these images with you to your pre-start for reference. Remember, this is about the overall look and feel of your new home so don’t get distracted by specifics. We just need a starting point of your preferred style and colour scheme to get started.
- Peruse your Plans. You should have a full set of working drawings sent to you before pre-start. Take the time to look at the overall layout of your new home and check that it’s going to suit your purposes both now and into the future. Look at each individual room and check that the layout works for you. Check that your furniture is going to fit. Do you want more drawers in the kitchen or bathrooms? Check your electrical plan. Do you have sufficient lighting for each room? Would you like to add feature lighting? Are there enough power points in the right places for your appliances? Make a list of any changes you would like to consider and bring this list with you to pre-start.
- Check your Specification. Your specification outlines everything that is included and excluded in your contract. For the items that you can make selections on (for example tapware), take the time to Google the exact make/model/colour that is currently included. If this suits you … fantastic! If you are looking for something different, note down the exact make/model/colour that you would like an option for.
- Know your Budget. When it comes to options at pre-start, you need to keep in mind your budget. There is no point in asking for options on items that will be well out of your price range as it will only end in disappointment. If you are not sure, search up the recommended retail price for the item that is currently included and the item that you are considering an option for. Even though builder pricing differs from recommended retail pricing, it will give you an idea of how much more (or less) you can expect to pay. Also, you need to consider your overall budget. It’s easy to get carried away looking at items in isolation. Sure … an extra $50 to upgrade the entry door handle isn’t going to break the budget but it all adds up.
- Go with your Gut. When it comes to selecting colours and finishes, you can often get distracted by what’s ‘on-trend’ or what your best friend recommends and you end up going around in circles because nothing quite resonates with your personal style. Remember … this is your home and it should be the way you like it! Don’t overthink it! Choose the colour or fixture that jumps out at you first and stick with it. Yes, some items may need to be tweaked so that everything works as a whole but, most importantly … it need to work for you!
