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Way back in 2013, before we started building our home, I undertook a lot of research and went about visiting a lot of display homes to find the perfect home for us that we could build. It did take a really long time (seven and half months to be exact) to select something we really really liked. It was fun to visit the display homes and draw inspirations from the home decor, the furniture and several textures and colours used in different houses. After months of wandering around, I shortlisted two builders - MainVue Homes and Carlisle Homes. The two choices I picked were both equally good and I just loved the various options I had in terms of design and layout of the homes.
But let me tell you one thing - there is no such thing as a "Perfect" home, no matter how well you decorate it or well you look after it. A house becomes a home when people enjoy living in it, when memories are established and it feels lived in and when it brings a warm smile to your face whenever you think about it.

Checklist for choosing the right home - 1. Select a the floor plan that fits perfectly for you. Do not compromise on the floor plan no matter what. However, keep in mind the budget you have outlined for yourself and select a plan that will require less structural variations to acceptable to you.

Image Credit - Carlisle Homes

2. Look for functionality of each space and room. Explore display homes and check out how it flows through each room especially your living room where most of your time as a family is spent.
3. Choose a kitchen that will provide you with enough bench space and think of how you can utilise your kitchen island and pantry depending on your storage needs. Ensure there's plenty of natural light in the kitchen.

4. Check the placement of bedrooms and whether the dimensions suit your needs. Its easy to be influenced by the decor in display homes, however, try to imagine the house without all the decor , just plain empty walls and rooms, minus the curtains, beds, furniture and artwork.
5. Remember to look for the placement of bathrooms and powder rooms. Ensure your powder room has a nice window so you have natural light and air flowing in this tiny space.


6. Make sure you have some backyard space, if you have kids for them to play around. Check for locations of windows and doors of the entire house.
7. Last but not least, have a front facade that defines the character of your home and gives a first and lasting impression.
Finally, I did select an amazing home that was really close to what I wanted in terms of design, floor plan, style along with inclusions and several options that I needed. I was looking for something that would stand out and be a functional place for my family. Guess which one I chose??
Too many things to think about isn't it? Have a chat with me if you are building your own home. Would love to share my tips with you!
xoxo
Shirin@LVB