Homebuilding Insights

Updated December 2025

You’re ready to buy a new home, and by that we mean a NEW home… one constructed just for you! You’ve chosen your lot and your floor plan, and now you’re ready to decide on the upgrades. It’s rare for a buyer to move forward with a completely as-is home when it comes to new construction. Everyone wants some of those “special touches” that identify the house as uniquely theirs.

At Ernest Homes, we walk our clients through these decisions every day. There’s a certain science to it – one that we’ve mastered during our years of success as one of the area’s leading homebuilders. We’ve put together some of our best tips to help you make the personalization process a little easier.

Set Your Budget

Have a firm number in mind when you’re shopping for upgrades, and don’t let yourself be swayed by the “kid in a candy store” mindset when you’re looking at the astonishing number of options open to you in our Design Studio. A good rule of thumb is to expect to pay 12% to 15% of the base price of your home on interior upgrades. You’ll need to stay within the boundaries set by your mortgage lender, so it’s essential to know how much is in your wallet before you begin shopping.

Address Structural Changes First

Changes to the floor plan—whether they include adding rooms, fireplaces or garages, revising walls, electrical or plumbing modifications, changing the size or location of windows, moving doors, or similar adjustments—must be discussed as soon as the floor plan has been chosen. Not only do the builder and the client need to agree on what can be changed, the cost of doing so must also be determined at the outset.

Follow the Builder’s Timeline for Upgrades

Your builder will usually suggest certain windows of time to select various upgrades. Typically, you will meet with the design center team two to three weeks after your contract is finalized. Before that meeting, make sure to prepare a list of items you’d like to add, including photos if possible. This helps your design consultant guide the appointment efficiently and keep you aligned with your pre-set budget.

Cover Your Needs First — Be Prepared to Pass on Some Wants

Some upgrades are essential for everyday comfort, while others are simply nice to have. Make sure you clearly distinguish between the two, and prioritize features that will truly impact your daily life.

Remember: Your Home Won’t Look Exactly Like the Model

If you fell in love with the model home you toured, keep in mind that model homes are built with a wide variety of optional features. If there were specific elements you loved, be sure to ask whether they are standard or upgrades. Confirm that your budget can accommodate those features if they are add-ons. You can always explore included features and layouts in our collection of new home plans.

Some Upgrades Can Be Done Later

Certain upgrades can be completed after closing, allowing you to spread expenses over time. Custom paint colors, landscaping, lighting and plumbing fixtures, crown molding, chair rails, window treatments, and some appliance upgrades can often be added later when finances are more flexible.

Avoid Over-Customization

At some point, you may sell your home due to lifestyle changes, relocation, or downsizing. Overly unique or unusual upgrades can make resale more difficult.

You may want to avoid specialty exterior finishes, bold fixture colors, oddly sized windows that require custom treatments, or built-in systems that appeal to very specific tastes. To maximize future resale appeal, focus creativity on easily changeable elements like wall paint, décor, lighting fixtures, and cabinet hardware.

Put Your Trust in Your Builder

If you’re struggling to make final decisions during the upgrade process, have an open conversation with your builder or design team. At Ernest Homes, we treat our clients like extended family. We’re always happy to answer questions, offer guidance, share experience, and help you confidently create the home that’s right for you.

If you’re ready to start personalizing your new home, explore our new home communities or contact us today to begin the journey.