Is your New Year’s Resolution to Love your Arlington Home?

 As we usher in 2017, many of us will be reflecting on our goals for the coming year. Many resolutions are created with an eye to improving health, promoting happiness, and engaging with family. For some, this might mean starting a design/build project to create the perfect home. A custom home that’s designed from the ground up to meet your needs can positively impact all three major resolution categories, and 2017 might be the perfect time to get started.

If you already own a home in Arlington, you may want to consider starting over from scratch. Building on your own lot has a number of advantages: if you love your lot, you get to keep it, you can stay in your current school district, and also keep your neighbors! Many Arlington homeowners choose this option because of the relative scarcity of lots in the area. Luckily, you don’t need an empty lot to build a custom home.

If you don’t already own in Arlington, you might be able to find a lot. Unfortunately, empty lots can be hard to find in this popular D.C. suburb. If you can’t find a lot in the right school district or in the perfect neighborhood, it’s likely that you’ll be able to find a teardown! This is one of the most popular options in high-demand areas. With old and deteriorating homes dotting the Arlington landscape, this option can be surprisingly affordable.

No matter which option you choose, it’s important to use a qualified design/build firm with plenty of experience. Below are several key points to look out for when vetting potential builders:

  1. Local Experience: The design/build process requires years of experience to execute with a predictably high quality outcome. Not only is it essential to have years of both design and construction experience, but having a history of dealing with local permitting and red tape is invaluable to on-time project completion.
  1. One Company:  A true design/build company combines design/architecture professionals with construction experts. The benefit of choosing a design/build firm is that everyone involved in the process is on the same page as far as budget, materials, and timeline. These parties will also keep you informed each step of the way. In most cases, choosing a design/build company can even save you money.
  1. Start to Finish: A well-connected design/build company will help you through each step of the process, including the search for a perfect lot. Builders are an important part of the local business community, and should have relationships with realtors, suppliers, decorators, and many other helpful industries. They will leverage these connections through each step of the process to ensure that you’re getting the most for your money, and from the best in the business.