Building a Home: 2012

Kamis, 08 November 2012

Custom Home Vs Semi-Custom Home

I am often amazed when I show homes in South Florida that buyers actually plan to tear out the cabinets, junk the appliances and replace the flooring in homes that are relatively new. They are reacting to South Florida builder's choices; inexpensive items bought at bid prices in bulk. Between what is thrown away and the cost to replace the discarded items, South Florida buyers are often paying much more than the home is worth, assuming it is purchased at market value.

To avoid this problem, buyers should think about building a home that is designed to fit their personal desires, requirements and style preferences. A custom home gives buyers the advantage to choose quality products such as flooring, appliances, cabinets and lighting. The buyer also has the freedom to decide location, layout and design features of the home.

There are some drawbacks to having a home built from scratch in South Florida. It takes a lot of time to find an available location and the right builder. In addition, these homes typically cost two to three times more than a development home; they are not built using an "assembly line" approach where all the materials are purchased at bulk rate prices. As a result, it tends to take more time to build. South Florida buyers also must be able to effectively communicate to the builder exactly what they want the home to be inside and out, from room sizes, overall square footage, down to the smallest detail of every room.

An elegant solution to this problem is to look for a builder in South Florida who sells semi-custom homes. These homes are a compromise between custom homes and developer homes. They offer many of the benefits of a custom home but are much less expensive. The builder provides a basic floor plan whereby the interior layout can be modified by the buyer to suit their own desires. The exterior can also be modified slightly. Then the buyer selects all their own appliances, flooring, lighting etc.

Most builders of semi-custom homes have a prepared selection of these items; it is necessary to have these items for the construction loan. The buyer can choose from the builder's selection or pick his own. For example, the refrigerator might be a stainless steel GE unit with a water center, but the buyer would rather have a Kitchen Aid product. The buyer gets what he wants and pays for the difference between the refrigerator "allowance" and the cost of his Kitchen Aid. The same concept applies to all the design options.

The semi-custom approach has much of the same flexibility of a fully custom home. Features like a deck or pool can be added, floor plans modified and features added.

Your perfect South Florida home may have already been built, and is in the process of being sold as a Short Sale. You may be able to work through a Short Sale purchase in less time than building a custom home in South Florida, and save tens of thousands of dollars.

You should seek professional help to sort through the options.

Learn more at http://westonanddavie.com/ Timothy P. Smith P.A. is a private brokerage. We are available to help. As a private brokerage, we have no franchise issues, sales managers or quota. You are our only concern. Call us at 954-817-4361 today.

Perfect Places to Call Home in Point Cook Victoria - House and Land Packages Reviewed

The rate of purchases of House and Land Packages in Point Cook make it one of the fastest growth suburbs in Melbourne's West in Victoria and Australia wide. The reasons for its popularity are clear, its has a strong 'point of difference' across many of the factors that contribute to why people and families decide on a preferred suburb to build and live in within the growth corridors urban landscape.

Situated just 25km from Melbourne's CBD, Point Cook offers a family-friendly environment with its aesthetic parks, and integral infrastructure such as public transport, schools and freeway access.

And its idyllic coastal park is perfect for picnics, or even a leisurely stroll to take one's mind of life's mouse wheel.

Based in the City of Wyndham, Point Cook's town centre comprises a myriad of retail and commercial amenities - from iconic shopping outlets to medical centres and financial institutions.

And to stress a 'point' even further, Point Cook offers some exciting house and land packages for those chasing the ultimate dream of a totally relaxed lifestyle.

A 'point' in case is highly respected builder JG King Homes, which proudly displays its Gala 1A in the Alamanda estate.

The 164.97m2 steel frame home on 325m2 of land will definitely appeal to those with a burning desire for open plan living and a kitchen depicted as a "perfect entertainer".

The three-bedroom Gala 1A comes complete with a double garage and the option of an outdoor alfresco. JG King have been building homes across regional Victoria and Metro Melbourne for many years. The JG King name is well regarded with a range of floor plans to suit many different types of house blocks of land. With a regional focus JG King have a very strong range of ranch style designs.

There is also abundant opportunity to purchase land in Point Cook Victoria, with a number of classy developments to choose from, including Featherbrook, Kingsford, Paragon and Saltwater Coast. Each development has a different story to tell in terms of lots sizes, pricing etc.

Central Equity has land parcels selling from only $279,000 in Featherbrook, which comprises more than 30 hectares of open space, parks and reserves. There are also options if wanting House and Land Packages in Point Cook.

Featherbrook being a great destination for first, 2nd and 3rd homebuyers searching for a livable family friendly environment. It has beautiful open spaces and just 25 minutes approx from Melbourne's CBD.

Featherbrook also features approximately 4km of walking and cycling paths and the estate is home to four major neighbourhood parks. These parks feature an array of play equipment, shaded seating areas and exercise circuits.

Featherbrook is home to three wetland areas which create picturesque places which attract local bird life. A grassland conservation reserve provides sanctuary for many native species and protected River Red Gums.

Avoid the 'wait-and-see' of new estates developing. Featherbrook is an established & thriving community with major shops, restuarants, transport and school all close by.

Anyone in the market for a new home around Melbournes fringes must visit Point Cook.

Must see house and land packages in Point cook estates. The choices from home builders and land estates will amaze you with great value. The popularity of Point Cook makes it one of the fastest growth suburbs in Melbourne's West and for good reason. Find Out Why. Visit http://www.mypackage.com.au/House-and-Land-Packages/Point-Cook-VIC.html to explore options.

Perfect Places to Call Home in Point Cook Victoria - House and Land Packages Reviewed

Hotspots for House and Land Packages in Perth

A number of outer suburbs in Perth have become very popular hot spots for new home and land packages. From Ravenswood and South Yunderup in the south, to Banksia Grove and Iluka in the north, Butler and The Vines in the east, these abundant stylish house & land packages are catering to homebuyers of all budgets.

Listed below are many of the Hot Spot suburbs generating most interest right now. Not surprisingly many are in great locations (some offering beachside lifestyles) where new home buyers are receiving great value - and contemporary designs to choose from.

Summary of regions and suburbs of most interest:

Perth's Regions and Suburbs

North West (Joondalup and Wanneroo LGAs)

Eastern (Swan, Mundaring, and Kalamunda LGAs)

South East (Gosnells, Armadale, and Serpentine-Jarrahdale LGAs)

South West (Cockburn, Kwinana, and Rockingham LGAs)

Peel (Mandurah and Murray LGAs)

Middle Perth (Melville, Canning, Belmont, Bassendean, Bayswater, and Stirling LGAs)

Perth's outer suburbs are some of the fastest growing in the country, with population growth rates up to five times the national average. The CBD also is the fastest growing of all the inner capital city local government areas, increasing by 18,000 people or 3.7 per cent during 2010-11, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

The urban fringes of Perth (and Melbourne) made up six of the top 10 fastest growing areas across Australia during 2010-11, continuing the trend that is seeing more people move further from cities.

The north coastal LGA of Wanneroo experienced the largest population growth in the state, with more than 6200 new people (a 4.2 per cent increase).

The City of Stirling, which takes in suburbs including Mt Lawley, Innaloo, Balcatta and Scarborough, recorded the second largest population growth, with 4000 more people (a 2 per cent increase).

The fastest growing LGA was the shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale in Perth's outer south-east, which grew by 6.9 per cent to 18,400 people.

Armadale and Mandurah also were the second and third fastest growing areas.

WA's population has soared in the past five years, with more than 50,000 new people calling the state home each year.

A recent report in the Sunday Times also indicated the Pilbara's renowned house and land market will continue booming.

The state's north-west, in particular Port Hedland, South Hedland and Newman, have secured a strong positioning in a list of 50 hot spots identified by an expert panel for magazine Smart Property Investment.

Meanwhile Perth and its surrounding regions were highlighted as strong home & land opportunities, with Murdoch, Como and Fremantle all recommend as hotspots.

A total of 10 WA suburbs made the list of national hotspots.

Resource towns in WA made up a significant proportion of the suburbs listed while Mandurah suburbs Greenfields and Halls Head were also both named hotspots in the 2012 Fast 50 Report.

The best and quickest way to explore house and land packages around Perth. Click the link and explore great options from MyPackage.com.au. We have new homes and land wrapped up. http://www.mypackage.com.au/House-and-Land-Packages/Perth-Western-Australia.html

Luxury of Luxurious Homes

Luxury Real Estate Sellers target a niche audience mostly of a high socioeconomic group. But on the other hand, survey suggests that a significant number of luxury home owners household income is between $20,000- 50,000. This means that these homeowners are not actually 'living the lavish lifestyle'. It is not always like you see it in the movies. Everyone has a dream and a lot could be sacrificed to achieve it. The beauty of Real Estate is that it can be purchased to be used as an investment, as an enjoyment or both. When one wants to buy one of these i.e. take a lifetime decision what kind of conveniences does he actually look for?

Variety of Luxury Homes: Luxury Homes come in various forms. It can be a garden real estate, condos, equestrian property, vacation property, farm property, golf property, waterfront homes, beach houses or even an island to themselves.

View: As mentioned above all of these homes come with an excellent view of nature's best. There are instances when a 700 sq. ft waterfront home can cost more than a mansion in an industrialized area.

Locality: The surrounding homes, unwanted commercialization in the area, proximity to major transport stations, schools etc. are all factors that come into play when buying luxury real estate.

Amenities: There is a long list of amenities of which a property could posses all or a few. For example, swimming pool, golf course, gym, clubhouse, entertainment room, sports room, play area and parking area are some of the common amenities provided. There are also some developers that endow the property with the most high end outrageous amenities like a pool in your balcony or something on those lines.

Personalization: The home must be customizable. It must be possible to tweak the available amenities according to the specific needs of the buyer. For instance having designer kitchens, movie theater style seating in entertainment rooms, wine cellars, hot tub, swimming pool with options of hot and cold water, professional landscaping, state-of-the-art security systems etc.

These are all the factors that a consumer will consider when buying a high-end home. There are developers who promote their brand by publishing their own magazines. They target an audience that is more critical, more aware and knowledgeable than that of the audience buying ordinary real estate. Thus, this makes it more difficult to close a sale as compared to the former. But, when one happens they gain huge profits as this industry thrives on quality and not quantity.

Luxury of Luxurious Homes

Building or Purchasing Your First Real Home

They say that building a home is one of the most stressful decisions you will make. Unlike the purchase of your first family car, this huge financial commitment will quite obviously be a decision made carefully, to meet all of your expectations and of course stay within budget. There are endless questions to be answered, who is a reputable builder, how much space is necessary, is there a need for a 3rd bathroom, should a basement be finished... the list goes on. The future however is bright; let's take a look at some important facts that will help with your first custom dream home purchase.

What can you afford?

It would be nice to think that the cost of renting will be the same as owning a home, unfortunately we must consider other contributing facts such as property taxes, PMI insurance, down payment, and of course the actual mortgage. Analyze your income, debts, college loans or similar. Combine not just your own, but your partner or family. Remember, a home purchase is a team decision. If you have a reasonably good credit record, but your partner may not, this ultimately will affect chances of acquiring a bank loan. In some situations it might be beneficial to have a financial advisor (unless your education just happens to be in this industry). As a first time home buyer there may be some obstacles on applying for the loan from your bank.

Lets go house shopping!

Once all your numbers are organized and you have a rough idea how much can be spent, the fun part begins... looking for that dream home! Start your research, compare prices, look a various magazines and find a style of home that works for you and your family. Speak with friends and family who have already purchased a home, they may be able to shed valuable advice on how they conducted their own home search.

Many top builders today offer express delivery homes and also offer the option for additional add-ons and upgrades (hardwood floors, trim, appliances etc). Enjoy this time, have fun, and go with your instinct on what's right for you!

A home buying experience is different for everyone, but remember some of these key facts. And enjoy the whole experience Try not to be stressed with any given situation and think about your options wisely. It won't be long until the keys are in your hand!

Hotspots for House and Land Packages in Brisbane

Brisbane and its greater region is a veritable goldmine of opportunity for new homebuyers. There has been no better time to build your dream home within Queensland's capital, where you can enjoy a sense of community while residing in modern convenience.

Numerous home and land estates - even some offering country lifestyles - abound within easy grasp of Brisbane's CBD. And the common denominator emerging from these developments is relaxed living combined with value for money.

Here are various precincts in the north, south east and west which stand out for their potential: North -Bridgeman Downs, Caboolture, Fitzgibbon, Griffin, Lawnton, Mango Hill, Narangba, North Lakes; South - Rochedale, Doolandella, Holmview, Stretton, Waterford; East - Victoria Point, Manly West; West - Bellbird Park, Brassall, Fernvale, Redbank Plains, Springfield Lakes.

Most of these house and land packages are situated only 30-60 minutes from Brisbane - one of the nation's most appealing cities with a combination of the old and the new.

The river that snakes through the heart of town reflects a sub-tropical environment which is pristine, colourful, adventurous, inviting and open.

Brisbane really has it all: you can spend lazy afternoons ordering creamy cappuccinos and dozing by the river, or step it up a notch by throwing yourself into any number of adventures such as abseiling the cliffs at Kangaroo Point, climbing the Story Bridge or splashing out with all kinds of water sports.

And there's simply no better place in Queensland to indulge in retail therapy with over 650 stores trading seven days a week.

Or, for something a little more cultural, there are musicals, live theatre, galleries, museums, and even guided walking tours of downtown's historical sites.

Brisbane also has a fine reputation for dining out, having developed its own unique cuisine that matches the climate perfectly.

And it's the perfect hub for exploring its wide variety of outer lying regions. Spectacular Moreton Bay beckons with its expansive waterways and myriad of islands, as does the white sand surf beaches of the Gold and Sunshine coasts. The regional hinterland is a well-kept secret worthy of exploration, filled with arts, crafts and interesting characters.

A report by property experts KPMG predicted Brisbane will have 46 per cent more dwellings in 2031 than 2001. And by 2021, the population of the Greater Brisbane area is projected to be in excess of 3 million residents. Compared to other capital cities, Brisbane is expected to maintain one of the highest rates of growth for the nation.

The Housing Industry of Australia (HIA) in its housing to 2020 report estimates that the Queensland property market will be home to an additional 379,600 households by 2020. In order to satisfy this additional demographic demand, the stock of dwellings in Queensland will need to grow by approximately 42,200 homes per year through to 2020.

Senin, 05 November 2012

Building a Home - The Cost of New Construction

We know that building a new home means having to spend a lot of money. We call the money to be spent as the Cost of Construction. If you are thinking of building a new home rather than buying from the many available existing homes, you should know the right procedures you have to take before you finally start buying materials for it. But before we go to that, let's identify first the choices you have when it comes to financing your home.

In financing, as the owner of the home that is to be built, here's the two ways you can choose from to finance your new construction.

1. Finance it by your own money.
If you have saved enough to finance a new construction, you do not have to look for a bank to loan. This could be great because you do not have to worry about bank loans and the financial obligations that come with it.

2. Bank loan
Going to a bank to loan for the cost of a new home construction could be a hard process as more banks don't usually allow loaning for a new home construction. But do not be discouraged because you can still find banks that allow this kind of loan. You just have to find one, talk about the terms, and your construction finances will be taken good care of by them.

Now that you know the two options a home owner like you has when it comes to getting the finances for the construction, next let's get to know about the real deal i.e. where the finances you have will be used.

Home builders- First and foremost, you will have to contact some local home builders. Builders will tell you how much per square foot they will be charging from you. They can give you a good idea of what your ideal home might cost.

Count the Square Footage - one way to do this is by finding an existing home similar to the one you want to build. All you have to do is take the price of the home, deduct the price of the land, and divide that amount by the square footage of the home.

You will have to remember that your contracted builder wants to make some money one way or another out of the new job; therefore, you have to pay attention to everything that will require money. Be sure that you get quality materials and not some cheap ones as the quality of your newly built home depends on the quality of materials used.

Sabtu, 15 September 2012

Benefits of Buying a Kit Home

Owning a home is one of the many fulfilments of family life. For some, building their very first house is a dream come true. But let's face the fact that it is not easy and cheap to purchase a piece of real estate somewhere in the city. For most people who are looking for practical and affordable alternatives, a kit home is a better choice.

Kit homes are popular among those who are looking for alternative living space. Many families are looking into this option because it offers a number of benefits that other types of homes or real estate property cannot provide. For starters, kit homes can be built by the owner since it is packaged with the necessary materials, inclusions, and guidelines. It is a true DIY project on a general sense.

Another important thing to note is the range of kit home prices. You can easily choose a style that will fit your budget. By browsing the internet, you will see a range of design and structure, plus the prices of each kit. You will normally find a one-storey with two bedrooms for around $80,000. But, of course, there are other possible fees such as those for transport and delivery; building permit and other paperwork; labor fees; and others.

Since kit homes are mostly broken-down parts or pieces, you will only need to complete the actual construction once the materials arrive at your property. This makes kit homes more eco friendly since there's minimal waste. And this is also beneficial for homeowners since there's less clean up and expense.

If you compare the traditional way of building a home, it usually takes months. Concrete slabs take a few weeks to dry up. Painting the home from inside-out would take days and the smell of chemicals can be unbearable. If you choose to build a house using a kit, you will be able to eliminate these hassling factors as the manufacturer will do the work for you. All you have to do is put the parts together on your own or with a hired contractor.

Building a kit home is not just cost-effective, but also very flexible. As mentioned above, you can either build it ala DIY or hire someone with the expertise in construction. Another way to do it is to choose from the company's offers. Sometimes you'll find options such as final product for delivery, lock-up stage option, and bare [owner to finish all the work needed].

So, if you think you are ready to build your dream home, a kit home can be very satisfying. It is practical, easy on the budget, and builder-friendly.

Why You Should Consider Kit Homes

One of the greatest achievements of every family is to be able to own a home. But it is a challenge for many families especially these days, as costs in real estate properties are rising. Many couples are dreaming to provide a decent home for their children, but the financial constraints are preventing them to do so.

However, nowadays, you will find alternative types of living spaces that are within reach of most households. If you haven't heard of kit homes, now is the perfect time to search for one if you wish to fulfill this lifelong dream of owning an abode. Each kit includes partially built parts of a house that are prefabricated in a manufacturing plant. There are companies online that offer build-to-order kits, which require them to request the manufacturer to process the materials upon ordering.

Generally, when you want to build a home that doesn't require too much time and money, a kit home is a better alternative. With a limited budget, it is possible to purchase one without having to worry about monthly amortization for years. What you'll need is spare cash for a land if you don't have one yet. You will only have to decide which design and structure is suitable for your family and available block of land. But the total amount you'll spend will just be a fraction of the cost of a real property.

When it is time to build your dream house, you have the option to build it on your own with the help of plans and guidelines from the manufacturer, or hire an expert builder and pay for labour costs. If you choose the latter, you will need to talk to a builder and negotiate the fees to prevent any financial issues along the way.

For those who are into DIY and custom-designed interiors, you will surely enjoy this benefit when you purchase a kit home. The house itself is a DIY project on its own, but every owner has the creative freedom to update and upgrade their living space from inside and out.

It is not impossible to own a decent home even in today's world where everything comes with a price. You just have to be open with the idea that living spaces are not just erected from the ground up. History and technology has put together the possibility of getting a good home that comes in parts and delivered at your premises.

Most Common Types of Building Materials And Its Uses

Materials and products which are used for construction purposes are known as building materials. It is available in different forms and varieties. In the earlier days, houses were made of clay and dirt. As time evolved, rocks were used to build homes. Granite stones were widely used to build homes as it was strong and durable.

Construction materials varied according to the places and climatic conditions. In countries like Japan, which is prone to natural calamities, people opted for bamboo structures as it was light in weight. Bamboo structures caused little damages during earthquakes.

Most of the new building materials pose serious health hazards to people and the environment. Most people prefer to use eco-friendly products for constructing homes and office spaces. Bricks, tiles and cement are some of the most popularly used constructing materials.

Bricks: Construction materials include different types of bricks. Bricks are available in different sizes to suit different construction requirements. There are mud bricks, clay bricks and concrete bricks used for constructing homes and offices. Rubberized and glazed bricks are used for decorative purposes.

Wood: One of the most widely used building materials includes wood. Different types of wood are used to build homes. Wood is used for interior decoration as it exudes infinite charm and elegance. Mahogany, oak, pine wood, teak wood are some of the most expensive and exclusive varieties of wood used for construction purposes.

Concrete: As time passed, wood was replaced with the use of concrete. Concrete is a mixture made of cement and fly ash. It is widely used to build strong structures even today.

Metals: Metal structures are strong and durable. It is commonly used to ensure extra strength and versatility. Aluminum, steel and iron are some of the most widely used building materials.

Glass: Another significant construction material includes glass. Glass materials include frosted glass, colored glass and etched glass. It is used to build windows and doors. Glass houses exude a unique charm and elegance. Huge glass mansions are quite popular nowadays.

Granite, marble and ceramic tiles: In addition to the above mentioned building materials, there are many other types of materials used in construction purposes. Granite is known to be the strongest natural stone next to diamonds. It is used for constructing countertops, floors and walls. Granite countertops are preferred due to its immense strength and versatility.

Marble is another popular choice among most of the home owners. This elegant natural stone is available in a huge array of colors and designs. It can enhance the interior decor of any home or office space.

Plastic: The list of building materials is incomplete without the mention of plastic. It is one of the most versatile materials available on earth. Plastic pipes, tubes and sheets are widely used to build homes and apartments.

Tips for Building in a Foreign Country

For many people the thought of building your own home can be daunting. There is so much information that you think you may need to know to proceed with this task. And definitely, the idea of building in a foreign location can be even more intimidating.

First there is the distance factor to be considered. Then there is the fear of hiring the wrong contractor. And third there is the fear that you won't get what you are paying for. And don't forget the variations of building materials and building codes. All put together, it's no wonder that people shy away from building their dream home in their dream country.

I am here to tell you - it shouldn't be a scary proposition providing you have done the homework involved. This article is intended to provide a broad overview of tasks you can employ to make the project less scary and more successful as the goal ultimately is to have you complete and enjoy your new abode in your dream country.

The following steps should be taken whether you stay in the country of choice for the entire build or if you are going to assign the project to your realtor, your contractor, or another person of your choosing who will be monitoring your project. At no time should you leave the project unmonitored - use somebody to be your fill-in. You may be required to pay for the monitoring services however this fee will be small compared to a half-finished project with all money used.

1) Above all else, contact a reputable realtor in your country of choice. You can then use this individual to bounce your ideas off, to help with the research and to direct you to a host of reputable individuals you will need to help with your project. The realtor is also able to be your "feet on the street", so to speak, liaising with the contractors, with the lawyer, with the local government officials to ensure that everything is going as planned. As well the realtor would be able to provide unbiased project status reports which can include pictures, videos, reports, invoice and receipts, and whatever else is requested.

2) Decide if you are going to be the general contractor or if you are going to perform the duties of the general contractor. Acting as your own general contractor can save you money but it can also give you big headaches when it comes to sourcing and purchasing materials and hiring workers at the right time to get the job done.

3) Once you have been provided with a list of contractor names by the realtor do your research. Use the internet to research the company, go to their own website and see the scope of work that has been done. Not all contractors have websites though so you may want to not put the most benefit on the website. And we know that the content on websites is intended to show the company in its best light but what you may be able to glean is information on what types of buildings the company will construct and you may even be able to locate contact information. Sometimes there just is nothing like a direct conversation with somebody.

4) Next, again use the internet. This time go to the blogs that have been written for the destination country and post your questions. Ask if anybody has used so-and-so contractor. You will need to make sure to identify where the contractor is from. Asking somebody on the Ambergris Caye, Belize blog if they have used a contractor from Toledo District, Belize is not likely going to get you any responses. And if you don't target the questions to the right area you may come away thinking that nobody has used the contractor at all, when in fact, it is your questioning method that is not targeting correctly. You could also ask a relocation specialist if there are any contractors that he or she is aware of.

5) There may or may not be a form of the Better Business Bureau in your country of choice. If there is then submit a request for information on the contractor(s) of choice. If there isn't a Better Business Bureau or reasonable comparable organization then contact a lawyer in the country to see if you can obtain any BBB type information about the contractor(s). You are doing this to ensure that the contractor(s) name you have been given by the realtor is on the level and that you are not depending upon one source of confirmation of the reputation of the contractor(s).

6) Next, schedule a meeting via the internet for a face to face meeting. Interview the contractors online. Not all contractors will have access to the internet so you may have to do the interview via telephone. Have your list of questions, listen to the answers given, and watch for inconsistencies in the answers. Ask the same questions a couple of different ways and verify that the answers are consistent.

7) Be sure to have an architect's drawing of what you want to build and that the contractor is able to read the blueprints. You will want to be sure that the chosen contractor can read the instructions on how to build your dream home.

8) Once you have decided on the contractor of choice it is time to ask for references. Yes, it is true that references can be bought and that the contractor will only give you references of work well done but you should still not miss this step. You may even ask your realtor of choice to go and check up on the work done by the contractor so that you can be sure the work done is in the place owned by the customer.

9) After you have decided on the contractor of choice be sure to draw up a comprehensive contract outlining all aspects of the project and when money will be forthcoming. Ensure there are clauses included for accountability of the contractor. Receipts must be provided, and verified every step along the way. Have the person monitoring the job verify the receipts.

10) As well, do not hand out all the money should the contractor threaten to walk away. If the project has been detailed correctly and the contractor works as expected this should not come up but don't be taken in by the ploy to get more money.

11) Do not pay up front for work not completed. If possible, arrange with the hardware stores to have an account set up and pay for the goods directly to the account. You will need to provide some money up front for the crew to begin working but have a scheduled time for the next payment. The scheduled time should not be based on calendar dates but on completion of specific tasks.

12) Hold some funds back, approximately 10%, until you are able to visually verify that the terms of the contract have been met to your satisfaction.

By taking these steps you will be much further ahead towards the completion of your dream house in your destination of choice. Regardless of where you are doing your build you need to be diligent but especially if you are doing it long distance. However, it can be done and you should be prepared to visit the site at least a couple of times for your own peace of mind.

Elizabeth Wendy Miller
RE/MAX Property Center South
Punta Gorda, Toledo District
Belize, Central America
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Send an email to wendy@belizepropertycenter.com to get more information about the Toledo District in Belize. We are the Toledo District Property Specialists.

Let the Best Kit Home Company Design Your Dream Home

It is a blessing that someone thought of the idea of building new homes using pre-assembled kits, because these kit homes are now the most affordable way to have your own home the way you actually like it. Whereas in the past, people had to settle down for something that has been designed and built by someone else, this time around, you are now able to bring out the ideas in your head of what your house should look like and make them come to life.

For this to be a successful project, you must start with finding the best company who can provide you with a good working design and equally good-quality materials. With a lot of companies now setting up this kind of business, you will need to be discerning in your choice to make sure that you are bringing out your money for something of good value. The best places to start checking out are the ones that have been highly recommended by friends and local property developers. The information you need to know about these companies from these reliable sources should include not only the details of the materials and design but also of the service provided. As this is most likely your very first kit home, you will want a company that is good in making you understand the whole system and how it works. If you are planning to build this home yourself together with your mates, you should also ask about the ease of readability of plans these recommended companies provide.

Once you've gathered the list of possible companies to tap, it's time to check them out. With most of them setting up shop online, you can now very easily go over the details of their business through their website pages. You can even browse through some of the designs they've made. All the details you want to know are usually provided for on these sites, sometimes including a rough estimate of kit prices. What's great about most of these sites is that you don't have to know every available detail they can offer; you can simply choose the type of house you want and you will get the details you need to know about it. Kit homes can be in the form of granny flats, simple holiday or caravan homes, and 1-5 bedroom houses; there is a house to suit every particular need.

Finally, the quality of the customer service of the company is another important aspect to look into. For sure, this is vital to the success of the project once it's underway. Although you do get the assurance that everything you get after purchase is in order, it can sometimes happen that something is amiss and you would need to contact them about it. You will have to make sure that they are good with correspondence before signing up with them by making initial enquiries and noting how fast they reply. You will also discover their level of responsiveness when you start corresponding with them about design ideas.

Because this is going to be your first home and you are making quite a good financial investment into it, it is important that you make sure your chosen company is a group you can trust. Get an insight into their experience, reliability, and quality of work before making any final decisions in their favor.

Looking to build the home of your dreams at a more affordable price? Check out http://www.valleykithomes.com.au/ kit homes to view your options.

Top Benefits of Granny Flats

If you've heard about 'mother-in-law houses', then it is possible that you may have heard of granny flats. These are homes that come in packages or kits, and they can be built by the owner or with the help of your local contractor. One thing you need to know about this type of kit home is its versatility. You can purchase one for your grandma or grandpa to live in without actually leaving your premises. This gives the elderly more independence and privacy they deserve. Taking care of them won't be a problem and you'll have fewer worries since your family is just nearby.

If your grandparents are not living with you, a granny flat-type of kit home can be built as a guest house for your visiting relatives or friends. This is advantageous for both the homeowner and guests since they can still have privacy while living within the same premise. This also eliminates unnecessary expenses such as hotel and accommodation costs, taxi fare or gas expenses, laundry fees, as well as those unplanned shopping sprees and such.

A lot of families have seen this opportunity to bond with relatives from overseas without having to spend too much on food and other expenses while vacationing. The accommodating family can include them in their grocery-shopping and just split the costs in half. Same goes with utilities and other household expenses incurred during their relatives' stay.

Another benefit from granny flats is the possibility of earning extra income. You can put up a small unit and rent it to a small family or a group of yuppies working in your locale. Some have turned their flats into bed and breakfasts or transient houses for students, local tourists, and small groups of vacationers.

For parents who are looking for ways to teach their teenagers how to be independent, having a granny flat can help solve this problem. This is a crucial adjustment for both teens and parents, so why not do the transition while they are both nearby. It is also important to note that some teens that go to college may experience culture shock, homesickness, and difficulty adjusting to new environment. Having a small flat around can help you teach your teenagers to adjust to an independent life with your supervision. This also encourages them to be responsible for themselves, allowing them to learn how fix things, cook their meals, clean up their surroundings, and take care of themselves.

A granny flat can also be converted into a small office. If you have a home-business or your work at home, this gives you the opportunity to concentrate on your responsibilities and clients. You'll also have more privacy and fewer disturbances from family members and pets. This also enables you to emulate professionalism since you can minimize background noises and unnecessary situations while you're handling calls or online transactions with your clients.

There is still much to be said about granny flats and how these can help individuals and families along the way. You can always find opportunities to earn and utilize these units without spending a lot of money in the process.

Buy And Build In A Tauranga Subdivision

With some of the best weather in the country, views over the ocean and fantastic property prices, Tauranga is a destination growing quickly in popularity for families looking to escape New Zealand's main centres.

If you're looking for a plot of land to match your lifestyle rather than adjusting to fit in where you move, it's likely you won't be looking to live in central Auckland or Wellington - especially if you have kids to think about. High property prices, small spaces and all the stress that comes with high-density urban living should be enough to put anyone off. People move from around the world to enjoy the freedoms of a laidback lifestyle in New Zealand; why wouldn't you want that for yourself?

Tauranga Subdivisions

Tauranga is the most populous city in the Bay of Plenty and, while it might be home to only 120,000 residents, it's still one of the country's main centres for business and trade. As its popularity grows and more people look to soak up the sun in the region, more and more subdivisions are popping up to provide opportunities for potential new 'Taurangians'.

If you're thinking about making the move or you've been talking to home builders in Tauranga about creating the perfect home for you and you're still looking for a suitable section, take note of these sought after subdivisions and build for you and your family's future in Tauranga.

Rowesdale Developments

Rowesdale is just entering stage eleven after celebrating 100 years of ownership by the Rowe family. The subdivision maintains a high standard of development and boasts large sections starting at 687sqm. With Greerton Shopping Area and Fraser Cove just minutes away and school buses to Tga Boys, Girls and Bethlehem Colleges, Rowesdale is ideal for families.

Rowesdale is located just fifteen minutes south of Tauranga Central in Ohauiti.

Lynley Park

Lynley Park designs its sections with your lifestyle in mind. Located in Omokoroa Beach, Lynley Park is a coastal subdivision with views of the Tauranga Harbour waters and the Kaimai Ranges. The large sections in the subdivision are being snatched up fast as coastal real estate of this quality is quite a difficult thing to find - if you want the view and the lifestyle that Lynley Park offers, you'd better get in fast during stage two.

Now is a great time to buy in Tauranga. If you're in the position to build and you're after the perfect piece of land, look to the city's subdivisions for some fantastic space and the lifestyle you've always wanted.

Home Buyers Should Compare House and Land Packages in Melbourne Carefully to Get Maximum Enjoyment!

It's a fantastic time to be looking for House and Land Packages in Melbourne but do your homework as you want to make sure you end up buying the home and land of your dreams and not making a mistake because you have rushed in. There are so many great promotions right now so as enticing as they don't want to rush in. You can look in every direction around Melbourne and Victoria now, there is no doubt the discounts, incentives and level of choice make it a great time for new home buyers to build a home and land package.

With the 'compass' in hand here's a snapshot of new home and land package options that will steer you in the right direction.

The house and land market in Melbourne's northern area includes a large selection of land estates in suburbs like Craigieburn, Epping, Mickleham and Wollert and further North Wallan and the impressive Mandalay land estate development at Beveridge which includes a Greg Norman designed golf course. Another notable estate to visit is Aurora by Places Victoria.

In the north-east, Doreen, Mernda and South Morang are hot suburbs for consumers looking to take explore what a new home has to offer. There are a range of display villages peppered through this corridor with some of the builders displays really leading the pack in terms of what new homes offer and the lifestyle that goes with it.

Move the compass west, with great options out to Bacchus Marsh which can include some terrific views of Melbourne's skyline and further in to Caroline Springs, Melton, Point Cook, Tarneit, Truganina and Wyndham Vale are good examples of the 'head west' movement. The development of road infrastructure in the west has really opened the corridor up to development with the Victorian Government announcing huge plans for the once little suburb of Rockbank in Victoria. With builders like Dennis Family Homes, the Home Buyers Centre servicing these areas it is even worth looking at options for no deposit house and land packages.

If you head further west you find Geelong, home to might Geelong football club but from a new property perspective absolutely changing everyday. For many years the land released for buyers was tightly held however this has changed in recent years. The 'sleeping giant' is awaking, as land is developed in suburbs like Armstrong Creek with the new Warralily estate and Connewarre, Drysdale, Lara and Leopold.

It's the same in the south-east growth corridor, with great new house and land packages from builders like Orbit Homes, JG King Homes, Rawdonhill Homes with options in Clyde, Cranbourne, Keysborough and Pakenham and very popular with home buyers in new estates right now. One drawcard for the South East region is the Peninsula link due for completion in early 2013, this will move traffic from Melbourne all the way down to Rosebud without a single traffic light. People living in Berwick and these suburbs will be at wineries and the beaches of the beautiful Mornington Peninsula in no time.

With so much choice and promotions to boot, it really is a great time to explore house and land packages Melbourne as there is something to suit singles, couples and large families looking for contemporary living and value as the promotions haven't been this good for some time. Do some research and you start to realise you have so many great suburbs, land estates, blocks of land, builders and home designs to choose from, its simple to transform your lifestyle. One of the other great aspects of buying new and building is the fact you get to select the fitout, color schemes even the kitchen sink.

It is a buyers market right now and builders and land developers have responded with some terrific promotions that really make the exercise of building a new home make a lot of sense from a value and lifestyle perspective, but just remember to look at the different offers carefully before rushing in all excited and making a hasty decision.

Find home builders, land and house and land packages around Melbourne Victoria and across Australia at this great address at http://www.mypackage.com.au

Should You Choose a House Builder's Floor Plan or Design Your Own?

Many house builders will offer you the option of either choosing from a range of standard floor plans or designing your own space plan to use in the construction of your new home. Which is the best option for you? Your choice will depend on the range of floor plans offered and how specialised your needs happen to be. Many people prefer custom designed flooring as a matter of course, but the standard designs offered by house builders can be helpful to people who aren't sure where to start or are looking for a more economical option.

The 'standard' floor plans offered should be varied enough to appeal to a wide range of clients, from large families to retired couples and everyone in between. If, however, your needs are different to most, or there is a special feature you have always dreamed about including in your dream home, then a custom flooring is the right option for you.

If you plan on creating original floor plans to submit to your house builder, you should always work with a professional architect to ensure that drawings you use are produced to an accurate scale and can be easily translated into a finished product.

Remember that the floor plan includes details not only about the spacing of the rooms inside your home, but also the orientation of the home on your land and any outdoor structures or landscaping to your garden or surrounding land. Commercial floor plans therefore might include verandahs and even pools to complement the main structure.

If you choose to create your own flooring you might want to talk to your house builder about how much space can be allocated to a garden or backyard play area for children. They will be able to provide advice on the most convenient organisation of your home, including the placement of essential features such as driveways, garages and entryways.

Whether you choose a pre-made flooring or a custom design, you should only go ahead with a space plan that truly suits your lifestyle. This is the lifestyle that you are likely to continue with, rather than the lifestyle you wish to have or daydream about. This means that if you have kids that like to run all through your home and make a lot of mess, you should submit a floor plan to your house builder with a lot of open space and areas for the kids to play in and the adults to retreat to, rather than a space that could be dangerous or impractical with kids.

Buying CBD Apartments

If you are a young professional looking to make your way in life then there are few better ways to get on the right track that are better than getting your own apartment. With your own apartment you can have a space that's young and vibrant and that you can decorate into a real pad, but at the same time you won't have to pay monthly rent which can get really expensive and is essentially the equivalent of just throwing money away. When you own your own apartment then all that money that you are paying into it will be yours still and you will get it back when you finally come to move out - so financially it makes by far the most sense. CBD apartments in particular are even better if you are looking to get an apartment somewhere that is convenient for work, that will retain its value and that will help you to stay right in the thick of it.

So how do you go about buying CBD apartments and getting on that property ladder? Well first of all one of the best things to do is to find an estate agent with an MLS. An MLS is a 'Multi Listings Service' which basically lists numerous properties in one place. These are highly useful because they allow you to browse through all the properties in one place without having to snoop around the web like a digital detective. At the same time these have the advantage of allowing you to perform cross searches where you search by particular criteria so you only find ones that match what you are looking for - want a large CBD in easy commutable distance from where you work within a particular price bracket? With a balcony? Then type that in and arrange an appointment.

While you can see the apartments on the website in pictures, this is nowhere near the same as looking around the property in person so it is absolutely crucial that you do this first before you think about buying and at the same time that you know how to look around a property.

The first tip when you look around is to make sure that you take a list of questions. So often the questions we have in mind can easily fall out of our brain when we are put on the spot looking around and it's very useful to have them with us to prevent this. Don't be afraid either of overstaying your welcome - you are thinking of making a very sizeable purchase so you are entitled to stay there a while if you want to. While you're there imagine that the property is already yours and how you would feel looking around it for the first time if it were. Likewise think about whether your things would fit in and think about how you'd be able to have guests around etc. You should also make sure of course to get the property checked over by a surveyor to make absolutely sure there are no serious problems.

I was searching for Melbourne apartments now selling and found there is a fair few in town. I made and enquiry about this apartment for sale in the Melbourne CBD because it has a private sky deck.

Are You Thinking About Taking the Home Loan?

Today the market of affordable housing is growing fast. Likewise the number of people who want to buy home has also increased in some past years. Amongst these most of are youth who are getting good salary in very young age and want to possess their own home. As a result of this there is a boom in home loan market. But do you know what points you should keep in mind before you proceed for home loan. When you should be aware and where you should save yourself from being confused. Let's take a look at some points.

1 ) Good Financer - You should be in regular contact of your financer, hence your financer's customer care policy should be excellent. To know this your can contact the old customers of your financer or bank. You should also check the old records of company regarding how much benefit their customer s got on the rebate of interest rates and also check did this company increased the interest rate initially.

2) Big Amount of down payment would be much better - You should have some amount for down payment before you go for home loan. Big down payment amount means lower the amount of home loan and as a result of this EMI would be also less.

3) Which scheme is better Fixed or Floating - It is presumed that fixed loan are more costly over floating rates. But there is no assumption of interest rate in the case of floating. Hybrid loan combines the benefits of both. In case of Hybrid, Some amount of loan is based on floating and some is based on fixed.

4) Benefits of extending the time limit of loan - if your age is not too much then you can be saved from both, pre payment and more EMI. Instead the time limit of paying the loan will be increased and you won't have much burden.

5) Pr-payment is much better - If fortunately you acquire some funds through any source and you are in fix for choosing between the option of more EMI and pr-payment then pr-payment is the good option. Some people may agree with more EMI so they get more rebates on income tax on interest. Before taking any decision analyze carefully which is more beneficial between pr-payment and rebate on income tax on interest.

6) Think about refinance - If some other financer is giving you loan with much less burden in comparison to your home loan financer, then you can also think about refinance, however for doing this you will have to pay a fee. You will have to take the closing quotation from our current financer and provide it to your new financer. Closing quotation means how much principle is left and how much amount you have to pay for closing the loan account. Your refinancer will take over the loan account by giving the cheque of this amount to your previous financer. You will have to pay some pre- payment penalty to your old financer and some processing fees to your new financer.

Innovions consulting Pvt Lt. is one of the best Property Consultant in Noida, providing expert advice regarding home loan, buying and selling residential and commercial property in Noida, Gurgaon and Lucknow, renting out the property etc. Contact Innovions for hustle free home loan.

House and Land Packages: Things You MUST Know!

Savvy home builders and land developers are providing effective solutions for those contemplating and wishing to explore house and land packages and everything this brings with it.

There are no simple decisions when entering the home & land market... There are basic in terms of the process you need to go through if you are to come out of it the other end with what you hoped for, i.e. on budget, on time, in the right suburb, but then also the best block of land for you and your home design in the right estate from a home builder who understands this is important to you, in fact probably the biggest thing in your life and delivers on their promises.

And there's also the all-important consideration of what type of home and budget suits your lifestyle. We all want what we cant have and be very careful not to over extend your self financially up front, because its all the little things after you move into the home that also require a huge amount of available cash - things that are not included in some packages, like curtains, landscaping etc.

You have probably heard of baby showers, and we all know about wedding registries, well something which is gathering a bit of interest is build registries. This is where friends and family can assist with purchasing some of the elements of your new home as a house warming gift. This can be a great way to avoid the vases, picture frames and toasters.

Back to the serious stuff - Understanding terms like a home and land packages inclusions, fixed price packages, fit out and colours, purchase and payment process, land title release, construction time, costs and financing, borrowing capacity, energy efficiency, block suitability, site costs, land covenants, and planned community are all integral to making an informed decision on the house & land package of your dreams. Educating yourself through a little bit of research is imperative at this point so you can assess value. Face it, no one else is going to do that for you.

Other elements include the existing and proposed infrastructure surrounding a land estate development is imperative when choosing a location: retail outlets, educational institutes, public transport, and amenities if important to you should all be on the 'wish list'.

No estate is the same, so consider the present and the future of any land development. It would certainly benefit to research previous estates the developer has brought to life and ask the hard questions around what will be delivered on this estate and when.

Most, if not all, of us are dictated by a budget. Thus it would be wise to seek financial advice firstly on a budget and secondly on items such as construction costs, taxes, and purchase process prior to signing on the dotted line. You need to also consider when you are building depending on whether progress payments will be used, that you might in fact have a rent payment and build payments due each month, so do the numbers to avoid and mistakes.

Not every home design is ideal for the block of land you may choose. It's not rocket science, but still some buyers commit the cardinal sin of purchasing land to later find the home they wanted to build will simply not fit or provide ample space for entertaining etc. When reviewing house and land packages look over the site plan of how the house site on the proposed block of land to ensure it suits your lifestyle needs.

And knowing what is included in the price will ultimately give you the ability to compare apples with apples to ensure you get what you want. Not realising that flooring isn't included in the build price is 10,000 or more mistake. Know what you are getting so you can ensure its the right value. Don't look for 'bang for your buck' as you get what you pay for so familiarise yourself with the standard inclusions and contract price... It just may save you money - and some heartache!

'Fixed price' should mean 'fixed price'. So get to know the components and ask if anything in the price can change what is it. You need to know up front that if a provisional sum is added later, you have capacity to cover it with the finances available. Surprises are something to be completely avoided.

Aspects also worth firing a question or two include local council regulations, connected services to the block of land, whether the land is bushfire or flood prone, and any inhibitors to the sitting of the home from these restrictions. Spend time with sales consultants and insist they take you through the paperwork slowly and diligently so you are confident and if you are not, seek professional advise.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference. However, if you're not prepared to ask the right questions the implications could be less than favourable.

Don't only be cost conscious... It's the suitability and usability of your home when you move in that is largely what will determine satisfaction in the long run.

Get it right by knowing the correct questions to ask when researching house and land packages from builders and developers. Educate yourself and enjoy the outcome. This article explores important considerations that should not be ignored.

Some Benefits of Building With Kit Homes

Although it's almost everyone's desire to build their dream house just the way they like it, the hassle involved in looking for materials and hiring professional builders just puts off most people from making it a reality. Instead, they focus on searching for a house already built and simply putting in an offer to buy it. With kit homes, you get to enjoy a house designed to your specifications without many of the challenges faced when constructing a traditional home. Here are a few of the advantages that you get by opting to build a kit home instead of a traditional house:

1. They are easy to build. Aside from the plans that you would need to assemble this house, the kit comes with easy-to-follow assembly instructions that any person with average DIY skills can follow. In fact, most owner-builders will want to do most of the job themselves so that they can proudly and rightfully say they were able to build their home practically all on their own.

2. They are cost-efficient. Most would-be homeowners lean towards kit homes simply because of the relatively cheaper cost of these homes. For one, the kit already comes with a standard set of quality materials that make up the frame of the home, and most companies factor in affordability as well when choosing what kind of materials to put into the kit. For another, you only get what you need in these kits. This is quite the opposite experience when you go for the construction of conventional homes, where builders tend to order in materials at a much greater quantity than what's needed, so you as homeowner end up paying for things that you don't actually use.

3. Most kit homes are designed for assembly on all kinds of terrain. In the likelihood that the piece of land you bought is not really on a smooth and even surface, building with kit homes makes for a much faster project than traditional homes, since the latter would usually require a leveling of the area first before construction can commence.

4. Most kits released during modern times are designed towards energy-efficiency, in following with the government's advocacy in the promotion of green energy. For those companies that don't talk about this aspect a lot, make sure to enquire about it. It is a good thing that many kits include pre-insulated panels because such items really help in saving you money in your energy bills at the end of the month.

If you've been putting off your dream home simply because of all the trouble that's involved with it, then it's time to get on with it using a kit home. It really is a joyful feeling to finally have a home that you can call your own.

If you live in Queensland and you have realized that a kit home is the most viable option for you, check out your selections for kit homes Queensland in http://www.valleykithomes.com.au/kit-homes-queensland/

Building Kit Homes - A Homeowner's DIY Project

Having a beautiful home is an accomplishment on its own. You put effort, money, and dreams into the hands of builders and architects just to make sure your house will look great from inside and out. But nowadays, it truly takes hundreds of thousands of dollars to purchase a piece or real estate, and it is not easy on the pocket of most families.

Owning a great-looking house sometimes has a history of bad experiences. There are families who've been duped by contractors and left them dry without meeting their specific goals and expectations. It is one thing that many people dread when dealing with such builders, so they usually think twice before deciding on spending every penny on house construction.

However, today's innovations have taken home-building to the next level. They may not totally eliminate the need for a contractor, architect, or any company that builds houses, but the processes usually make it more convenient and safer - financially and emotionally.

Kit homes are just among the innovations in home-building today. These are houses of any type, size, and style that can be ordered as a packaged kit with inclusions and instructions. These homes are built within the confines of manufacturing plants, then, shipped to the homeowner-builder for actual construction. It is in the discretion of the homeowner on whether or not to seek a contractor. The best way to do it is to find reputable a local builder who has years of experience to ensure your kit home will be built on time.

For other homeowners who have the knack for building and construction, this is a true DIY project that they will surely enjoy. The included manuals and plans of a kit home can be a cinch for people who have the know-how. The components within the kit are already prepped up in the plants before are shipped, so it is merely setting-up the land and putting together the pieces of the home that need to be done by the owner.

Having friends and family around to build kit homes is also a must for those who prefer a larger structure. Of course, it is faster to build this type of home in comparison to a house that's built from the ground up. You can also harness teamwork and camaraderie when you have a project such as this. But it also helps if you have an expert within reach to assist and ensure you're building your home the right way.