Many homeowners make common mistakes when looking for the best floor plan to fit their needs. Whether you are getting ready to design your floor plan with an architect or you are house hunting to look for the perfect home, take a look at these 5 floor plan mistakes and learn how to avoid them!

1. Don’t assume every floor plan fits your lifestyle

Lifestyles and family needs differ from individuals and families depending on their cycles, stages and future plans for the home they want to design. Features that newlywed couples look for in a home plan are vastly different from the characteristics that a retired couple might find important.

2. Will this home be big enough – or too big – in five or 10 years?

Regardless of your current stage of life, a home that is just the right size now won’t necessarily be just right in the future. A flexible house plan allows you to convert spaces as your needs change. A playroom can become a bedroom when another child is born. A child’s bedroom can become a den or sewing room later. If a home office has an adjoining bath, it can be used as a suite for overnight guests, provide housing for an aging parent, or become your main-level master suite in later years.

3. Ensure architectural features won’t cost you more in the future

There is nothing like getting excited about architectural features that look beautiful on a 2D floor plan and feel even nicer when standing inside of the finished home. Details like expansive floor to ceiling windows, skylights and other architectural features could have an impact on heating and cooling your home when your energy bill arrives. While it may not be a concern now, think of green cost savings on your architectural features of your floor plan for future living too.

4. Choose a floor plan that works with your budget now

One mistake homebuyers often make when looking at floor plans is over spending for the future, rather than planning for the present. You can always upgrade your home. From finishes and innovative additions to possibly adding area and amenities. Don’t get oversold from a home selling agent or a developer’s representative – only you know your budget. Plan for your budget now so you will feel comfortable living in your home and not feel “financially strained” each month to make payments on your home.

5. Location, Location… Changing your floor plan options

While you can change your floor plan in the future, remember you can’t change the location. With this in mind, don’t make the mistake of falling in love with a floor plan and forgetting about the property and surroundings of your home. If you fall in love with the layout of a master bedroom in a floor plan, but don’t like how it looks out over the street in the model home – chances are your home in your location will have a totally different aesthetic, view and therefore feel different. Remember when choosing a floor plan; ensure the interiors will fit with your location.

View a sample of homes to find a plan that fits your needs and your budget on the HUB!

Thanks for the info from * The Freshome