You may hear the phrase, “They don’t build homes like they used to.” This is true, but not in the way this phrase implies. Today, homes are actually built better. Your new home today is built to be more energy efficient, safer, and to withstand the extreme weather we as Canadians are faced with.
Another statement that remains to be true is, "You get what you pay for". This isn't to say that you have to spend over your budget to get your dream home. Instead, it means that it's a smarter move to invest in quality, saving you from additional spending down the line. Take a look at how building a custom home could be the most cost-effective choice for you and your family.
Superior Quality
Building codes for new homes are constantly reviewed and revised to ensure best practices. New technologies and methods are being implemented regularly to provide consumers with the best product possible.
Minimum building codes, while vastly improved from those of even 20 years ago, are simply the minimum standard at which any builder is required to construct a home. With your custom home, however, your home is built significantly above these minimum codes, ensuring you are receiving the best quality available.
Good custom home builders have a commitment to building superior quality homes. Experienced builders understand that when you choose to put a great amount of effort into designing a custom home to suit your needs, it's likely to be your "forever home". That's why these homes are built to be long-lasting, and standard specifications simply won't cut it.
Customization
When considering a custom home the first thought that likely crosses your mind is that it's an expensive option. Custom homes are generally large, extravagant, and even so far into the territory of “unique” that some people may not even consider it. Fortunately, these thoughts tend to stem from myths about custom home builds. A custom home has actually become a far more attainable option for homeowners today.
As the name 
suggests, a custom home satisfies your distinct needs and desires. By building this type of home, you control more of the design, creating spaces that are specific to your lifestyle. You will have flexibility in terms of overall square footage, finishes, and the lot on which you choose to build. This flexibility also allows you to adhere to any budget you have set aside for your new home.
Home Warranty
In Alberta, builders are required to provide warranty coverage on all newly built homes. This will give you full coverage on your new home for a certain period of time. Labour and material coverage lasts for a year, and systems such as plumbing, heating, and electrical are covered for two years after your possession date.
Should any structural issues arise, such as with the foundation or frame, you will be covered for ten years. Your walls, windows, and roof are usually covered for five years with the Alberta New Home Warranty, but Augusta Fine Homes actually offers you seven years of coverage.
This is just one example of how a good custom builder might go above and beyond to ensure you're investing in a home you can count on. Custom homes are built to your preference and built to be long-lasting. For this reason, good custom home builders will pay close attention to detail and remain willing to make adjustments should any issues arise. You'll notice savings for years to come when renovations are unnecessary and any rare repairs are covered anyway.
Materials & Products
Materials & ProductsThe materials and products used in construction are where the real savings come into play, but not because the supplies used are less expensive—in fact, it’s just the opposite. Your custom home is constructed using top-of-the-line, quality materials, products, and finishes.
With higher quality materials, the brand new condition of your home will sustain far longer than that of a general production-built home. This means that despite ongoing use of your home over time, replacement or repair won’t be necessary for a significant period of time. The initial cost to build your custom home may be higher, but the longevity and quality you receive will certainly save you in the long run.
Energy Efficiency
In a custom home, you have the control to work in varying degrees of energy efficiency into construction. As a standard, your custom home will already be extremely efficient due to features such as high-efficiency furnace and hot water tank, humidifier, Heat Recovery Ventilation system, triple pane windows, envelope seal, and other efficient functions from which a solid foundation is created.
In addition, consider other items such as mobile-controlled or self-adjusting window coverings, mobile-controlled thermostat, solar panels, etc. When you are selecting appliances, consider the energy usage of each when comparing brands or similar products. There is no shortage of options available to maximize energy efficiency in your custom home.
Your Home, Your Choice
Not only are you building a quality, energy efficient, and sound structure that will be your home, but the design and layout are crafted specifically for you. Although your colour and finishing selections are made from an array of top-quality products, that isn’t to say you need to “break the bank” to get what you want. Throughout the design of your new home, adjustments and considerations can be made to ensure you stick to your budget.
While the initial cost of a custom home may be higher than alternative options, you will save in the long term through a quality-built home, outstanding customer service, and peace of mind that your new home is backed by a solid, extensive warranty program.
