Seven Must-Haves for New Construction Homes

If you’re looking for a must-haves list for new construction homes, you’ve come to the right place!

We get it, when you begin building a new construction home, there are so many things you think you have to have! You fill your Pinterest board with your must-have features you can’t live without – your ideal kitchen cabinets, the layout of your primary bathroom, all your paint colors. You may think you have thought of everything but what about the finer details? 

Take a look at our list of “must-haves” when building a new construction home. This list includes a combination of smaller features that make your home a more enjoyable place to live and larger design considerations that will make your home more valuable and keep your family organized. 

The home of your dreams is just a few steps away when you work with a custom home or semi-custom home builder. If you are ready to dive into building a custom home or semi-custom home build, we’d love to chat more about how AP Dodson can come alongside your journey. We also have customizable floor plans designed with your family in mind. As you look over the list, consider what you would add to your home!

1. Mud Rooms

If you have kids and/or pets, a mudroom is definitely a must-have for new construction homes. Homebuyers request a pick-up and drop-off station at the family entrance— usually near the garage. They’re looking for mudroom spaces with hooks for jackets, cubbies for shoes, and cabinets that will help keep the family organized and keep pet items all in one central location. No matter what your personal aesthetic is, country casual, rustic farmhouse, mid-century modern or formal elegant, a mudroom is a must-have for your new consturction build! 

Bonus: Your mudroom also is a great landing space for your Amazon boxes and other delivery services. You don’t have to carry the mess from one room to the next, just leave everything in one space. 

2. Open Floor Plans

Open concept home designs continue to be popular among people buying and building homes. Great rooms which combine kitchen, dining and living areas are often individuals’ first choice. The openness invites interaction among family and friends and guests – People are enjoying being together more than ever. Another benefit is that this style makes the home feel larger adding to its value. 

Fortunately for AP Dodson buyers, the open floor concept is a staple in most of our designs. 

3. Outdoor Kitchen and Outdoor Entertaining Space

Outdoor living spaces are a must-have for new conconstruction homes for multiple reasons. 

• You have the opportunity to take advantage of your entire property and create more space to live in and entertain. This bonus space will help make your home feel larger and more useful overall. 
• Your home value will increase by adding or updating your outdoor space. Adding function and style to an outdoor space is appealing to future buyers. Even if you’re not planning on making a move soon, your home’s value will hold true over time. 
• Imagine dad grilling, the kids playing safely in your backyard while mom enjoys a good book all outside together. Having a functional and serene outdoor space will encourage and provide the opportunity to spend more time outside which improves both mental and physical health.

4. Roomy, Walk in Showers… Separate from the tub!

It’s becoming more and more common for homeowners to forgo a bathtub in order to include a roomy shower in their bathrooms. Fortunately, AP Dodson floor plans provide both in the primary bathroom suite. 

5. Organized Closet Space

Organization saves time, especially when it comes to getting ready in the mornings. In your closet, all items should be easily and quickly accessible. Everything must be visible and within reach. And well lit! You can bank on AP Dodson floor plans providing plenty of closet space and organization so you’re always on time and looking fine. 

6. Smart Thermostats

According to energy.gov “You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7º – 10º for 8 hours a day.” With programmable thermostats, like Nest or Honeywell, you can easily set up a program that will automatically lower the temperature while no one is home. 

7. Lots of Electrical outlets and Charging Stations

“I need to charge my phone,” is a common phrase you hear all throughout the day from family, friends, coworkers, and strangers. Homebuyers are requesting more electrical outlets as more family members have the need to plug in and recharge cell phones and other devices. Most homeowners want several outlets in each room.

A dedicated charging station for family and visitors is a must-have feature that will make your house stand out among the rest. Another must-have is the need for USB and USB-c charges. Consider adding in-wall receptacles and outlets already outfitted with USB chargers.  

Let The Pros Tackle your Must-Haves for New Construction Homes

The good news is that AP Dodson homes already have most if not all of this list of must-haves for new construction homes! Browse listings we currently have available in Baton Rouge, Central and Ascension Parish here.