Things to know before building the perfect house
Category Property Advice
Imagine living in a house that has been customised the way you envisioned it to be. The rooms are as big as they can be. Your entertainment room caters for all your needs. The landscaping rivals those in magazines. The benefits of customising your property according to your desires add a sense of pride and sentimental value to your home, something that cannot be found in a purchased property.
Building a home allows you to ensure that each aspect of the property is flawless. You can also have the best safety features, latest technology, elegant tap faucets, good flooring, and more. Building the perfect house in South Africa is not as difficult as it seems. However, one of the biggest drawbacks of building the perfect house can be the cost factor.
These are the vital things to know before building the perfect house:
Planning your budget
The cost of building a house in South Africa varies. Certain areas may have a higher price tag and value than others. The size of the plot you plan to have your humble abode on will also be a cost factor. The features that you plan on having, the contents for the house, as well as the workmanship that will go into each phase, should all be included in your budget. Other administration costs involved can include plan plotting and printing costs, estate approvals, building levies, sidewalk deposits, as well as plan and submission approvals.
Banks do offer building loans but in most cases, require a 10% deposit. Unlike a home loan, when taking a building loan the bank will pay out in stages as each stage of the construction process is done.
The bank will request a number of documents when you do apply for a building loan, so its best to have them in order. These documents can include a draft of the plans for the house, and a signed agreement between you and your chosen contractor. The contractor is required to be a registered member of the NHRBC (National Home Builders Registration Council) and covered by the Contractors All Risk Insurance Cover.
Choosing the perfect spot
Finding the right spot for your house is rather exciting. Vacant land with exquisite panoramic views are generally priced higher, while others are more affordable to suit a lower budget. It is wise to research the pros and cons of the area and the vicinity around your plot. For instance, if you purchase a property with a stunning view of the ocean, what are the chances that a developer may build a block of flats in front of your house and decrease the value? Think ahead and consider all possible future pitfalls.
Getting the right team
In order to build the perfect house, you will need to hire a team that will include professional such as an architect, quantity surveyor, structural engineer, land surveyor, a geologist in some cases, and reliable builders. To ensure that the styling of your house is top-notch, you may also require the services of a landscape architect and interior designer.
It is vital to conduct reference checks, analyze previous work, and verify licenses as per professional regulatory requirements of each professional. The result of having an incompetent architect or electrician can lead to unwanted delays and extra costs.
Building a house can take its toll on a person. You require patience and the vision to see what your future lifestyle can be like. Are you keen on building your next home? Contact Knight Frank Properties today and our friendly agents will help you find the best spot around.
Author: Knight Frank
