There are so many upgrades to choose from, and it’s really hard to know if you’re getting a great deal or not by allowing the builder to install the upgrades. I’m here to say, not all of the upgrades have a great return when it comes time to resale, but there are a few upgrades I typically recommend (dependent on the builder) the buyer have the Builder install.
The upgrades most of my buyers have the builder do:
1. Cabinets – It’s generally less expensive to have the builder do this before you move in.
2. Flooring – This one has less to do about cost and more to do about convenience…it’s not so fun to move out of your house for a few days while a contractor installs new floors.
3. Electrical Pre-Wiring – This is when the builder runs more outlets or pre-wires the bedrooms for fans, or other wiring. It’s usually much less to have the builder do this.
With that said, all builders are different and my recommendations vary dependent on the builder. The best way to know what upgrades to work with is to work with a Realtor who knows the basic cost to get the upgrades after the fact.
Also, it’s important to remember even if it is less expensive to have work completed after the fact, you don’t get to finance the cost of that upgrade into your loan. In addition, having wood floors installed requires you to move out of your house…which is a hassle in itself!
