Raleigh, NC and Surrounding areas

15 days ago

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1 min read

New Construction Upgrades That Impact Your Budget Most

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Let’s face it, the design appointment can be more overwhelming than the home itself.

When building a new construction home, many buyers think their upgrade decisions will be spread evenly throughout the house. In most cases, that is not what happens.

Where Buyers Actually Spend the Most on Design Upgrades in New Construction

The majority of upgrade dollars are usually spent in two areas
​ • The Kitchen-selections like upgraded cabinetry, hardware, backsplash, under cabinet lighting, or built in appliances can increase your investment quickly.
​ • The Primary Bedroom and Bathroom- upgrades such as tray ceilings, additional windows, enlarged showers, or upgraded tile flooring are popular choices that enhance comfort but can also impact your overall budget.

These are the spaces you use every day, and naturally where buyers want the most comfort, function, and visual impact.

Model homes are designed to showcase what your home can look like with upgrades. Features like ceiling height cabinets, luxury tile showers, enhanced lighting, or extended islands may be included in the model but are not always part of the base pricing.

Builders also have some great included features. For example, a lot of my clients will typically go with the included LVP flooring.

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Kala’s Smart Upgrade Tips

Things I suggest to my clients

  • Prewire for ceiling fans and extra lighting – It is more cost effective to install the electrical now and choose your own fixtures later.
  • Ceiling fan options are limited – Builders usually offer one style, two if you’re lucky, which are often basic and priced higher than buying your own after closing.
  • Add outlets in the pantry – Perfect for small appliances and charging devices.
  • Add outlets in the primary closet – Convenient for plugging in an iron or charging electronics.

Why It Matters

Knowing what is already included and being strategic about where to invest in upgrades can help you stay aligned with your budget while still creating a home that fits your lifestyle.

I work with my buyers to prioritize upgrades that add daily value and skip the ones that may not be worth the cost long term. Making informed design decisions can make a big difference in both how your home lives and how your budget performs.

Kala Dunn | Realtor

A Raleigh native and true Triangle insider, I bring seven years of exclusive new construction experience to the table. I have guided buyers through communities, contracts, and design selections with clarity and confidence, interpreting builder processes and contracts into proactive guidance that protects your interests and maximizes opportunity. I understand what adds value, what to avoid, and how to position you to make confident, well-informed decisions. Today, I combine my builder-side expertise with a full market perspective to give my clients an advantage at every stage, from lot selection to closing day. Because I understand how builders operate behind the scenes, I can anticipate challenges before they arise and uncover opportunities others might overlook. The result is a building experience that feels seamless, intentional, and genuinely exciting. Outside of real estate, I have a deep love for design and the details that turn houses into homes. In my free time, you can find me working on a DIY project, discovering a new restaurant, enjoying a brown sugar iced latte, attending concerts, or planning my next trip. Whether you are relocating, building new, or purchasing your first home, I am here to guide you every step of the way with experience, insight, and intention.

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