New Construction Upgrades: Where to spend you money

I recently came across a question asked on MyHomeImprovement.Com that I thought was not only interesting and familiar, but answered somewhat incorrectly in my opinion. They have a disclaimer stating that in no way do they insure the accuracy of their answers, but I felt that a little explanation to set the record straight is in order.

Question:
We are going to have a house built in the next year. In what areas of the build would you recommend paying for upgrades? I have heard everything from the cabinets to the linoleum. Which ones will supply the best return/enjoyment for our money?

Their Answer:


Cabinets and counter tops in both the kitchen and bath. Second choice would be floor coverings.





Now I agree to some extent that kitchen and bath are areas where upgrades are the most enjoyable, but upgrades in these two areas are very expensive so as far as the best return they are wrong. You can get a fantastic kitchen and bath without too many costly upgrades. Floor coverings are another partially wrong answer for the same basic principles as the kitchen and bath explanation. The area where you will see the best return for your money and enjoyment are in areas somewhat beyond aesthetics.

Windows:

• Ensure the lowest heat loss/gains


• Consider vinyl for low maintenence


• Are they Energy Star certified


• Upgrade to Argon gas filled glass


• Consider tints, glazes, etc. depending on the region you live in

Exterior Doors

• Upgrade to maintenance-free Aluminum Clad Jambs


• Upgrade to the most energy efficient sill, jamb, and weatherstripping

Floors

• Upgrade to radiant in-floor heat

Deck

• Upgrade to composite decking material (never stain, paint, or get slivers in your feet again!)

These are just a few great examples on areas where you can save money down the line as well as headaches in home maintenance. Rather than spend extra money up front on things that, although may be pleasureable, save you nothing in the long run; upgrade wisely for your future, and your family's future.