New Construction Upgrades – Your Best Investments
Now that you’ve decided to purchase new construction, it’s time to take a closer look at which upgrades you’ll add to your new home. It’s almost inevitable that you’ll want a few, but if you’re like most buyers, you’ll need to make thoughtful decisions about where to invest your extra dollars. You want upgrades that not only enhance your daily life but also provide long-term value.
Even though it may feel far off right now, you may eventually decide to sell your home. The upgrades you choose today can significantly impact resale value in the future. We’ve gathered insight from industry experts and recent buyers to highlight upgrades that consistently deliver strong returns and buyer appeal.
Premium Lot
While not a physical construction upgrade, choosing a premium homesite can be one of the smartest investments you make. Corner lots, oversized lots, or homesites with scenic views often come with a higher upfront cost—but they tend to hold value exceptionally well over time.
Explore available homesites in our communities here: Ernest Homes Communities.
Structural Upgrades
Structural changes such as bonus rooms, expanded living areas, higher ceilings, fireplaces, additional windows, larger closets, or an upgraded owner’s suite are far easier and more cost-effective to add during construction than after your home is complete.
Don’t overlook the garage. Adding an extra bay provides valuable storage now—and someday, space for an additional vehicle. Extra garage space is always a selling point.
Brick and Stone Accents
Exterior brick or stone accents add curb appeal and character, but they are costly and complex to add later. Including these finishes during construction is typically the most economical and visually cohesive option.
A Bewitchin’ Kitchen
Kitchen upgrades are almost always worth the investment. Kitchens are central gathering spaces, and upgraded finishes consistently attract buyers—even those who don’t cook often.
Popular kitchen upgrades include:
- Taller cabinetry for added storage
- A functional kitchen island
- Spacious pantries
- Granite or upgraded countertops
- Under-cabinet lighting
- Garbage disposals in all sinks
- Trash compactors for convenience
Kitchen renovations are among the most expensive home improvements. Choosing these features during construction saves time, disruption, and future expense.
Outlets, Switches, and Lighting
You can never have too many outlets. Consider adding outlets in pantries, garages, exterior walls, and locations designed for charging stations, home offices, and entertainment systems.
Wiring for surround sound, enhanced connectivity, or smart-home features is far easier during construction. Three-way switches add everyday convenience, and recessed lighting or skylights are best installed before drywall goes up.
Ensure task-focused rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices have both overhead and targeted lighting for maximum functionality.
Energy-Saving Features
Energy-efficient appliances are just the beginning. Long-term savings and comfort come from whole-home efficiency upgrades.
Consider investing in:
- Tankless water heaters
- High-performance windows
- High-efficiency HVAC systems
- Enhanced insulation packages
Learn more about energy-efficient home features at ENERGY STAR.
Flooring
If hardwood flooring is on your wish list, installing it during new construction is usually the smartest move. Retrofitting hardwood later—especially throughout large areas—is far more expensive and disruptive.
When installed during construction, the cost is typically lower and can be rolled into your mortgage.
If you’d like help prioritizing upgrades, our experts at The Gallery at Ernest Homes are happy to guide you through the process.
Explore floor plans and available options here: Ernest Homes Floor Plans.
Looking for move-in ready homes or inspiration? Visit our Quick Move-In Homes.
