6 ways to build your dream home without breaking the bank

Creating your dream home shouldn't come with a hefty price tag. By carefully strategising and making smart choices, you can build the home you've always envisioned without compromising on your values or ending up with a generic house. The key is to approach the process with a clear vision and a budget-conscious mindset.

Here are our top six considerations to help you bring your dream home to life while staying within your budget.

1. Opt for a smaller footprint

Bigger isn't necessarily better! In fact, when it comes to homes, a larger size often comes with a bigger price tag. In an era where minimalism and efficiency are gaining traction, it's no surprise that the size of homes is following suit. The shift towards smaller square footage homes is not only a reflection of changing lifestyles but also a conscious choice towards sustainability and practicality. According to recent data from Stats NZ, the median floor area of newly consented homes in 2022 was 126 square metres, down from 140 square metres in 2021.

Focusing on effective layouts that make the most of every available space forces us to reconsider what is truly important. Open-concept designs can provide the impression of more space, and multi-purpose furniture can perform dual functions, increasing practicality without losing aesthetic.

Smaller homes can benefit from a strong connection to the outdoors. Incorporating large windows and sliding doors allows for ample natural light and a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. This not only enhances the visual depth but also expands the overall living space.

Embracing a smaller living space also encourages us to prioritise quality over quantity and adopt efficient design strategies. By focusing on functionality, smart storage solutions, and a minimalist approach, we can create homes that are both comfortable and reflective of our lifestyles and values while also helping you keep within your budget.

Fun Fact: The average size consented home in the North Island of New Zealand to date in 2023 is 145m2 this is down from 2022 which sat at 154sqm.

2. Choose a flat section with minimal site works

A flat site with good ground typically requires less extensive foundation work. Building on stable ground reduces the need for complex and costly foundation systems, such as piling or retaining walls, which are often necessary on sloped or unstable sites. This results in significant cost savings from the outset of your project.

Flat sites also offer greater design flexibility, as there are fewer constraints related to the terrain. You have more freedom to create the layout and architectural style you desire without worrying about the limitations. This can lead to more efficient and cost-effective designs. 

When searching for the perfect location to build your dream home, it is important to consider the foundations, restrictions, and be open to compromises. Finding the ideal location may be your main focus, so take the time to explore all the possibilities and find the perfect spot for your new home. 

3. Explore cladding options

Your home's exterior cladding is not just about protection, it's an opportunity to enhance its curb appeal and showcase your unique style. When it comes to choosing exterior cladding for your home, affordability doesn't mean you have to compromise on aesthetics or quality. There are a range of various budget-friendly options available that can transform your home's appearance while aligning with your financial goals.

One way to elevate the aesthetic appeal of your house design is by embracing the use of diverse materials and textures. For instance, you can opt for a primary cost-effective cladding option and then complement it with a secondary feature cladding, such as charming cedar wood or elegant stone accents. This combination not only is appealing to he eye but also breaks the monotony of a single cladding material. By playing with contrasting colours and textures, you can achieve a visually stunning exterior that sets your home apart from others.

Another way to add interest to a simpler house design is by considering the placement of the chosen cladding material. For example, you could use horizontal siding on the lower half of the house and vertical siding on the upper half. This variation in cladding can create a dynamic and visually appealing look that adds depth and dimension to your home.

It's important to note that simplicity in design doesn't have to mean a lack of creativity or style. By exploring different cladding options and considering their placement, you can create a beautiful aesthetic that reflects your personal taste and adds character to your home. So, don't be afraid to think outside the box and get creative with your cladding choices. After all, your home should be a reflection of your unique style and personality.

4. Simplify your house plan

When it comes to designing your dream home, the choices you make can have a significant impact on your budget. While many homeowners are drawn to intricate house designs with complex trim packages, unique angles, and elaborate decks, it's important to recognise that these features can drive up construction expenses. On the other hand, opting for a simpler house design can actually save you money in the long run.

One of the key advantages of a simpler house design is the quicker construction timeline. With fewer intricate details and complex floor plans, the construction process can be completed more efficiently. This means that you'll need the contractor's services for a shorter period of time, resulting in cost savings. Additionally, the reduced construction timeline also helps to lower the contractor's overhead costs, which can further contribute to your overall savings.

By choosing a simpler house design, you can focus on the essentials and eliminate unnecessary features that can strain your budget. This allows you to prioritise the elements that are most important to you and invest your resources wisely. Whether it's a spacious kitchen, a luxurious master suite, or a functional outdoor living space, identifying your non-negotiables early on can help guide your decision-making process and ensure that you stay within your budget.

5. Roof designs 

While most people first consider the exterior appearance of a roof, it is essential to recognise the significant impact that roof designs have on the interior of a house as well. The interior style, atmosphere, and even the perceived size of a living space are greatly influenced by the type of roof chosen for a home.

One popular interior trend in modern home design is the incorporation of vaulted ceilings. Vaulted ceilings are characterised by their steep, sloping angles that create a sense of openness and grandeur within a room. They are particularly en vogue at the moment because they have the ability to make interior spaces feel larger and more spacious. The soaring height of vaulted ceilings draws the eye upward, giving the illusion of greater vertical space. This feature is especially desirable in smaller homes or rooms, as it can create a feeling of airiness and grandeur, making the space more visually appealing.

However, it's important to note that vaulted ceilings, or high ceilings in general, can come with a non-negotiable caveat for some homeowners. While the aesthetic benefits are evident, the financial implications can be surprising. The construction of vaulted or high ceilings requires more materials, specialised framing, and additional labour compared to flat roof ceilings. The increased complexity of these designs necessitates careful planning and skilled craftsmanship, which translates into higher costs during the construction phase. One option for incorporating this feature without excessively worrying about the cost is to select a specific room in the house that would benefit from higher ceilings, such as the kitchen, living, and dining area. Then, for the rest of the home, consider opting for flat ceilings. This approach allows you to enjoy the aesthetic appeal and spaciousness of higher ceilings in the areas where it matters most, while still maintaining a cost-effective and practical design in the remaining spaces.

Despite the added expense, many homeowners view vaulted ceilings as an investment in the overall appeal and value of their homes. The aesthetic benefits, the sense of spaciousness, and the luxurious atmosphere they create often outweigh the financial considerations for those who prioritise interior style and comfort. For others, particularly those with budget constraints, flat roof ceilings remain an attractive and cost-effective alternative.

6. Decide on your non-negotiables and be open to making compromises 

It is essential to establish your non-negotiables while remaining open to making compromises during the design process. Distinguishing between must-haves and nice-to-haves will simplify the decision-making process, allowing you to prioritise features that are crucial and potentially eliminate those that could strain your budget. If you are building your home with a design and build company or an architect, taking the time to align your priorities well before the construction phase begins can help prevent unnecessary stress and conflicts down the road.

At Location Homes, our main goal is to help our clients discover their unique definition of affordable luxury. We understand that a home is more than just a structure; it's a reflection of your personality, lifestyle, and aspirations. That's why we've developed a method that empowers our clients to actively participate in the design and customisation of their dream homes.

Our approach revolves around a simple concept: we ask our clients to identify their top three features that they truly want in their home, and then we work within their budget to make those dreams a reality. These features aren't just about functionality; they are the heart and soul of what will make your home truly special and personalised.

Transforming your dream home into a reality doesn't have to be a financial burden. With careful planning, prioritisation, and the support of professionals who value your vision, you can achieve the perfect balance between your aspirations and your budget. At Location Homes, we're dedicated to helping you navigate this journey and create a home that not only represents your dreams but also respects your finances.

Ready to start building your dream home? Contact Location Homes today to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life in the Taranaki and Mangawhai regions.