Today's new homes set new standards for value, character and individuality. Professional new home builders offer a variety of options to suit any budget. The best time to consider these is before construction of your home begins. Here are some of the new home features to consider and discuss with your builder.

Windows
Windows are one of the most distinguishing features of a brand new home. Large windows bathe your home in light. Bold designs add character, and finishing details complement your décor inside and out. And thanks to recent advances in window technology, the beauty of today's windows goes hand-in-hand with energy performance, low maintenance and homeowner comfort.

Floor Coverings
Today's floor coverings offer more than a neutral background for your interior décor. They are an integral part of the character of your home. New home builders can combine different types of flooring in creative ways, matching them to the style and intended use of each room or area, as well as to your budget. Natural stone and ceramic tiles grace foyers, bathrooms, kitchens and informal living areas. Tough laminates find their way into children's rooms, hallways and home offices. Traditional hardwood flooring adds the warmth and feel of real wood. Carpeting comes in a plethora of textures and colours. Linoleum or vinyl with a tile or stone look lets you maximize your budget and still get the appearance you want.

Ceiling Treatments
Today's ceilings are designed to draw attention, using coffered ceilings with lots of detailed work, bulkheads and sloped or cathedral ceilings. Talk with your new home builder about your options.

Countertops, Fixtures and Faucets
With kitchens and bathrooms being key to homeowner decisions, new home builders pay careful attention to the details. From laminates to granite, they can suggest a number of attractive, durable counter options. Sinks are available in many configurations, materials and colours and some are moulded right into the counters. Faucets range from contemporary practical to Victorian ornate to futuristic sleek. The cost of top-of-the-line products can add up quickly. A wise approach is to set a firm budget for kitchen and bathroom components and work with your builder to achieve the greatest overall value for your investment.

Mouldings
One of the last finishing touches in your new home, moulding ties it all together. There is a great variety of window and door trim, baseboards and ceiling mouldings available. Visit other homes to see how different styles, sizes and profiles can affect the overall look of a home. And talk with your new home builder about the company's recommended products that will best complement the design of your home.

Other Features
There are many other features and options to explore, from infloor radiant heating to the latest in kitchen and bathroom cabinets. And look into wiring your new home for security systems, home entertainment and telecommunication. A growing number of builders are recommending a "home automation" package that lets you add a wealth of functions now and in the future, from front-door surveillance to remote temperature control, as needed and wanted.

Moving Forward
Coming up with your final list of features and finishes can take time. It is also often a balancing act between what you really want and what you feel you can spend.

Don't rush. Instead consult with your builder. Professional new home builders are committed to working closely with their customers to develop a clear and realistic vision of their new home.

Many builders offer design services to help you fine-tune interior layout and overall look of the home, down to the smallest detail. They may have a décor centre to assist you in selecting specific features and finishes. They may connect you with their network of supplier experts, who will help you make informed decisions.

Sometimes the best way to explore what's possible is to see first-hand what others have already done. Your builder may arrange for you to visit the homes of past customers.

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