Are you looking for a change in your life? Where and how you live both play a key role in your happiness. Everyone enjoys getting something new, the question is do you want “new to you” or custom built, brand new?
Building and buying a home are two completely different paths when purchasing your next- or first home. One way to go about weighing your options are to look at the advantages and facts between buying an existing home versus building a new construction home.
Advantages to buying an existing house:
Move-in condition: Existing homes are typically move-in ready and do not require too much thought other than painting a few walls and furniture placement, most homeowners do not need to make any major renovations when they purchase an existing home.
Quicker: new home construction takes time; a typical home build can take anywhere from 8-18 months depending on the complexity of the build and the schedule of the particular builder you hire. Once your offer on an existing house has been accepted, most people are able to move in between 30-60 days.
Less Costly: In general you’ll likely find it less expensive to buy an existing home, but of course that depends on the market at the time of purchase. If it is a seller’s market and you are competing with other buyers this might not be the case.
Home renovation options: You can make changes and upgrades to the home when you have the money and time available.
Less decision making: there are numerous decisions in building a home from the very beginning to selecting a lot and house plan all the way to window coverings and paint colors. If you have a difficult time making little decisions, purchasing an existing home might be the better option for you.
Landscaping: If you like mature trees and landscaping you might want to buy an existing home as it can take years for new landscaping to mature. Landscaping costs are already built into the price of an existing home cost.
Building a home also has its advantages:
Customization- Think of building your new home as an entirely clean slate. Building a home ensures that you will get exactly what you want out of your new home: the look, size, the number of rooms and bathrooms, it’s all up to you and it will reflect your style accordingly.
No Competition: Once you own the land, you wont have to compete with other buyers for your dream home.
Less maintenance: A new home means fewer maintenance costs. Typically your builder offers a warranty for a period of time as does most of the major home systems and appliances.
Energy efficiency: Newer homes are built with energy efficient materials and standards which will save you money on utilities and water usage. There are also options for reducing environmental impacts by prioritizing sustainability products in a new home.
Healthier home: New homes are not built with asbestos, lead based paint and can easily include radon mitigation systems, not to mention the options for adding humidity controlled thermostats, air and water purifiers throughout the house.
Ultimately, whether to build a home or to buy a home is entirely your choice! Weighing the advantages of each helps to make the right decision for you and your family. Also, it is imperative that you do your research on your potential builder. Knowing the full estimate as well as trusting that your builder will be able to mitigate issues quickly and know how to be the most efficient in their work, while clearly communicating the status of your build with you, will do you good in the home building process.
There are many types of countertops, and each has its pros and cons, including the price. Since this surface can have a big impact on how your kitchen looks, you might be wondering: What’s the best countertop for my new home or remodel? That depends, of course, on your sense of style and your cooking preferences. Whether you are looking to renovate your kitchen or are building a custom home and wondering which option is best; here is a guide to the various types of countertops and how to figure out which one is right for you.
Quartz Countertops
Sometimes known as “engineered stone” is a composite, consisting of quartz crystals held together with a binder, often resin. They look like natural stone countertops, but these engineered quartz countertops have some additional benefits you can’t get naturally. Those benefits have led to quartz being one of the most popular countertop materials in the past year.
Cost: $80 to $125 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Durable, less prone to chipping than natural stone ● Low maintenance; doesn’t require sealing ● Comes in vibrant colors in addition to patterns that look like granite and marble
Cons:
● May have visible seams where pieces meet ● It can scratch and will melt if hot pans are placed on the surface
Granite Countertops
Granite is a natural stone countertop material which has been highly prized in the kitchen for many years. It is available in a wide variety of colors and blends well with many different flooring and wall designs. Granite countertops are becoming more and more common thanks to their increased availability and affordability.
Cost: Cost: $75 to $200 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Adds non- depreciating value to your home ● Durable ● Non- porous and sanitary ● Each slab is unique and available in a variety of colors and patterns ● Stain-, heat-, scratch- and water-resistant when properly sealed
Cons:
● Can be expensive; rare colors and veining adds to the cost ● Requires sealing about every 10 years ● Edges and corners can chip if hit by a large heavy object ● Very heavy; must be supported by sturdy cabinets
Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is a natural stone which takes its name from the soft, almost soapy feel of its surface. There are two grades of soapstone – artistic and architectural – but only architectural soapstone is suitable for countertop use, as it is much stronger than artistic soapstone. It is naturally gray in color (usually darker gray, although lighter varieties exist) with veins of lighter color running through it. Soapstone has been used in kitchen countertops for centuries and looks particularly natural in a farmhouse-style kitchen.
Cost: Cost: $80 to $170 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Durable and ages well ● Heat- and water-resistant ● Low maintenance; doesn’t require sealing ● Small scratches can be easily repaired by sanding finely and applying mineral oil ● Pliable, unlikely to crack from too much weight ● Non-porous, easy to clean and unlikely to stain
Cons:
● Naturally soft, may scratch or chip more easily ● Requires regular polishing with oil ● Rarely comes in slabs more than 7 feet, requiring multiple slabs and increased install costs ● May have visible seams where pieces meet ● Limited range of colors; tends to darken with time
Marble Countertops
Long considered a sign of luxury, marble is a natural stone created by sediment under pressure, which develops a crystalline structure that allows it to be polished. It is not as hard as its cousin granite, but not as soft as soapstone, either. It can be found in a variety of natural colors, including white, black, gray, yellow, pink, and green, and sometimes with prominent veins of mineral deposits that are considered attractive.
Cost: Cost: $145 to $275 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Heat-resistant ● Classic look ● Available in a variety of colors ● Good for bakers; maintains a cool temperature for working with dough ● Unique and beautiful
Cons:
● Requires regular sealing ● Cuts and scratches easily ● Tough to wash out stains ● Damaged by acid, such as citrus juice, alcohol and coffee ● Very heavy; must be supported by sturdy cabinets
Laminate Countertops
Countertop laminate is made by combining layers of paper and resins into a single, semi-rigid plastic sheet. Brown Kraft paper (the same as paper grocery bags) is used for the bottom layers. A decorative sheet that bears the visible color and/or design of the laminate countertop goes in the middle and translucent sheets of paper form the top layer. Multiple sheets of paper are used in each layer and the total number of sheets varies and overall thickness depends on what type or grade of laminate is being manufactured. All paper layers are soaked in a resin, which serves as a glue and binder. The layers are then pressed together while cooked, which forces all the papers and resins to chemically bond into one plasticized sheet. These sheets can then be cut to size and glued to a plywood substrate on- site for custom laminate countertops or they can be bonded to laminate countertop particle board forms of various lengths that already include the backsplash and edge detail. These prefabricated laminate countertops allow for even faster and easier installation.
Cost: $40 to $80 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Inexpensive ● Low maintenance; doesn’t require sealing. ● Lightweight; doesn’t require the support of thick cabinets
Cons:
● Cuts and scratches easily ● Damaged by heat ● Wear and moisture exposure can cause layers to peel ● Visible seams where the pieces meet ● Difficult to repair when damaged ● Short lifespan ● Decreases value of home compared to other countertop options
Solid Surface (Corian) Countertops
Originally invented by DuPont in the 1960s and marketed under the brand name Corian, solid surface countertops are made from acrylic and polyester blends. They were originally intended to mimic the look of natural stone, while being stronger and non-porous. When DuPont let their patent expire in the 1990s, a wave of different solid surface materials entered the market, including Hi-Macs, Staron, Hanex, Wilsonart, and Durat, amongst others. These brands mostly use the same recipe – DuPont’s original – but differ in the colors they offer.
Cost: $45 to $75 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Low maintenance; doesn’t require sealing ● Easy to clean ● Resistant to most stains ● Small scratches can be repaired ● Can be used for the counters, sink and backsplash to create a seamless look
Cons:
● Cuts and scratches easily ● Damaged by heat ● Not particularly natural looking ● Resale value of home is less than that of other materials
Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops are made up of glued strips of hardwood in a vast array of different types of wood. These inviting, rustic-looking countertops are rising fast in popularity, as farmhouse-inspired design is trending everywhere. There are three basic styles of butcher block: end grain, edge grain, or face grain. Edge grain is the most commonly used for countertops because it is strong and less expensive; it is created by gluing long boards together on their sides. By contrast, face grain consists of boards laid flat, which is less suitable for a heavily used kitchen countertop because it is easily susceptible to dents and cuts from chopping. End grain consists of small blocks arranged so that their ends are visible on the surface. It is gaining popularity as it is extremely resistant to cutting marks, but it is also the most expensive option.
Cost: $35 to $85 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Relatively inexpensive and easy to install ● Long-lasting if properly maintained ● Regular oiling can improve stain resistance ● Cuts and scratches can be sanded out ● Warm and natural appearance that works with a variety of designs ● Wood is naturally antimicrobial
Cons:
● Cuts and scratches easily ● Not completely stain resistant ● Can be damaged by heat ● Susceptible to water stains and warping ● Needs regular oiling
Tile Countertops
Tile countertops are typically made of ceramic tiles (themselves made of fired clay), which are usually applied to a plywood substrate or on top of an existing laminate countertop, since tile by itself can be too thin for countertop use. These counters were popular in the 70s and 80s, disappeared for a while, and have recently come back into fashion.
Cost: $35 to $80 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Durable ● Customizable; available in a variety of colors and sizes ● Inexpensive ● Very heat resistant
Pros:
● Requires regular sealing ● Cracks easily; difficult to find a replacement tile to match ● Grout stains easily; hard to keep grout joints clean ● Standing moisture can damage it and contribute to bacteria growth ● Uneven tiles can make it difficult to balance a cutting board or roll out dough
Concrete Countertops
Countertops made from concrete – generally with pigment added to make them look less like a sidewalk! They are then sealed to make them non-porous and heat/stain resistant. Concrete countertops have been in style for a while now, especially among people who like that industrial or rustic look, and they don’t appear to be losing popularity.
Cost: $85 to $155 per square foot installed
Pros:
● Durable ● Heat-resistant ● Customizable ● Can be made to look seamless ● Long Lasting
Cons:
● Expensive due to customization ● Requires regular sealing ● Stains easily; can absorb moisture ● Small cracks can develop over time ● Very heavy; must be supported by sturdy cabinets
Staying in is the new going out, and outdoor design has never been better. 2020 has pushed outdoor spaces to work harder to create experiences you crave in a stylish, thoughtfully designed atmosphere. Backyards are no longer just a bland exterior, they have become an important part of any home. There are a number of ways to design a backyard getaway– whether you are looking to create a space where you can escape with peace and quiet or throw fabulous parties, there are many incredible ideas you can use to create a backyard that you love.
1. Deck up your deck –Define different activity zones within your deck to make it a destination. With multiple levels, you can carve out separate spaces for relaxing, entertaining and dining. You can cover a pergola with beautiful vines and abundant potted plants to bring your garden up onto the deck so that the structure blends into the landscape. 2. Create the perfect patio – With the perfect design, you can make your patio a welcoming addition of your house where you can enjoy fresh air and sunshine. With fantastic planning, you can turn your patio into a seasonal room that gives you comfort and relaxation. The surfaces of a patio are usually brick or stone. If you choose concrete, consider adding color and texture to give it a natural look. Add container gardens, planting beds and weather-proof furniture to add style to the outdoor space. 3. Add an outdoor kitchen – If you love eating outdoors or grilling, an outdoor kitchen is a must. All you need is a grill, countertop for food prep, a separate side burner, closed storage, and other conveniences to ensure that you have a fantastic outdoor cooking experience. To make preparation and cleaning even easier, you could add a fridge and sink. 4. Get the privacy you want – You can make your outdoor space feel more like an oasis by adding an enclosure. Garden walls, and fences are primary ways to ensure privacy–however, you can also use pergolas, lattice, and landscaping to define outdoor spaces and screen the views of houses around you. 5. Cozy up with heat– An outdoor fireplace or fire pit can turn an outdoor space into a toasty early or late season retreat. Make sure to consider the BTU outputs– if you get one that is too low, it will primarily be used for ambiance rather than warmth. Adding stone seating surrounding the fire is a nice and safe way to provide a gathering place for you and your guests. 6. Outdoor sound abounds– You can add high tech ways to entertain your guests in your outdoor space by incorporating the latest in music and television technology. Now it is easy to watch movies, live sports or even host a dance party in your backyard! Your house can provide you with the perfect ambiance for a relaxing time at home or an unforgettable karaoke session. 7. Add a spa or pool – To make your backyard a luxurious retreat, you can add a spa or pool to your property. There are a number of things to think about before making this change so be sure to talk to a professional. Location, electrical plans, subdivision covenants along with other considerations are necessary, but with careful planning- this would ensure you would never want to leave your stay-cation! 8. Plan your outdoor lighting – To make sure you get to enjoy your backyard paradise even after the sun goes down, outdoor lighting is vital. From the most basic porch lights to solar powered accent lights both are wonderful options to add drama and interest to your backyard landscape and to highlight walking paths.
Creating your personal oasis in your backyard is not difficult as long as you have a sparkling design and solid planning. Your backyard can be the space that you cherish most when you make it a place where you can entertain loved ones or relax in solitude.
As new information and policies flood our nation during this pandemic, a new trend is beginning to emerge. Americans that once thrived on big city living have found a new appreciation for the comfort of wide open spaces. Wyoming, the least dense and arguably most beautiful state in our nation, has become more appealing than ever.
The 2010’s showed a massive influx of people moving to large cities. But, in the last four years, metro areas with populations higher than 1 million have seen growth slow down and some have even decreased. It’s easy to speculate that this trend will increase during and after this pandemic. In conjunction, the possibility of working remotely has increased in recent years. Now that many members of society have been forced into a remote work scenario, it is likely to become a more permanent reality. Especially considering the development of technology that allows people to do so. People will be able to live further away from their company’s headquarters and, consequently, live further away from larger cities.
In the survey mentioned above, members of more suburban areas were less likely to consider a move to a less populated area. These people have already discovered the value of more space by spreading outside of the urban core of their city. These suburban areas have been shown to be more attractive to millennials even before the pandemic. This further shows us the value that is being placed on free space.
Wyoming has never been known to offer the same types of employment opportunities as large urban areas. But with the possibility of remote work being drastically more available to the workforce, location isn’t going to matter as much. We could definitely see the value of freely available space overcome the value of location. Even though an economic recession is known to discourage people from making big moves, there is no shortage of opportunity here. As home builders, we have seen this first hand.
As the pandemic and economic shutdown have progressed, In Yarak Construction has maintained all operations. While adhering to all safety regulations, we have continued to develop our current builds and are still receiving plans for future builds. We are safe and we are busier than ever, suggesting that opportunities to buy and build homes in the Wyoming area are only going to keep to growing. When the area is as breathtaking and welcoming as Wyoming is known to be, it’s hard to argue that more people will not be looking at living here. We believe that the value of living space in Wyoming will continue to increase as we move forward. What are your thoughts?
