Many people are wondering if their next home should be a spec home or a custom home. A spec home is one that is built already by a home builder and it has been put up for sale. A custom home is one that you’ve designed yourself and it is one of a kind.

There are many factors to consider when making your decision and deciding which is best for you and your needs. There is a convenience in a house that is already built but there are benefits of getting exactly what you need in building. Here is a guide to decide what makes the most sense for your family’s needs.

Budget

To make your decision, you’ll first need to look at your budget. A custom home is typically going to run higher because everything is customized, has unique features and design elements. Spec homes tend to use similar materials, products, and floor plans which keeps cost lower and consistent.

Which is more appealing?

Are you looking for something that you can call your own, create to your specific needs, and to have fresh everything feel fresh and new? Are you more interested in something that is ready to go, where you can avoid any of the planning work, and that will make life simpler?

You have to decide which route makes more sense for you. Some people prefer to create something of their own that is unlike their neighbors home, while others are looking to take some of the work out of the process and have a home that’s been designed and built for them.

Time frame

Do you need to move in soon? You will have to wait a while for a custom home to be built while your spec home is already ready for you. Consider your family’s time frame.

The biggest thing people need to do is prioritize what matters most to them, so that they can decide if a custom home or a spec home will meet their needs better. An alternative option is to get a semi-custom home in which you select certain features but not all, which saves time and is the best of both worlds.