Here are 10 important things to consider when you want to build a house or any structure:
1. Purpose and Needs
Decide why you’re building and what you need from the space.
Example: A family home, rental unit, office, or investment property.
This affects design, size, materials, and budget.
2. Location and Site
Choose a suitable site that supports your goals.
Consider:
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Soil quality and slope
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Accessibility and nearby services
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Sunlight, wind, and views
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Safety (floods, crime, noise, etc.)
3. Budget
Set a realistic budget early — include:
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Land cost
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Construction materials and labor
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Professional fees (architect, engineer, etc.)
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Permits and inspections
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A 10–15% contingency for unexpected costs
4. Design and Functionality
Your design should be both beautiful and practical.
Think about:
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Room layout and flow
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Future expansion
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Natural lighting and ventilation
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Accessibility and comfort
5. Professional Team
Hire the right professionals:
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Architect (design)
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Structural engineer (stability)
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Quantity surveyor (cost control)
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Contractor/builder (execution)
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Project manager (coordination)
6. Legal Approvals and Regulations
Ensure your project complies with local building codes and zoning laws.
You’ll need:
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Building plan approval from the municipality
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Environmental or heritage assessments (if required)
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Compliance certificates after construction
7. Sustainability and Efficiency
Design for energy efficiency and sustainability:
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Insulation, shading, and cross-ventilation
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Solar panels or gas systems
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Water-saving fixtures and rainwater collection
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Durable, eco-friendly materials
8. Timeline and Phasing
Plan a realistic timeline with milestones.
Delays often happen, so allow buffer time for:
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Material delivery
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Weather conditions
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Inspections and approvals
9. Quality Materials and Workmanship
Never compromise on quality.
Cheap materials or unskilled labor can lead to costly repairs later.
Ask for warranties and inspect regularly during construction.
10. Future Maintenance and Value
Think long-term.
Choose finishes and systems that are easy to maintain and add resale value.
A well-designed, durable home saves money and retains value over time.