Maximizing Your Custom Home Build With Resale Value in Mind

Top Home Features That Will Add Value When You Build

Building a custom luxury home is an exciting endeavor, especially when you have the opportunity to design a space that perfectly suits your needs and desires. However, as you plan your custom home build, it’s crucial to think about its future resale potential—even if that time is years away.

While your custom home will be tailored specifically for you, by focusing on key features known to enhance resale value, you can create a luxurious living space that not only suits your lifestyle today but also offers incredible long-term value in sought-after areas like Ancaster, Dundas, Burlington and Oakville.

Partnering with an experienced custom home builder like Kennedy + Kenel can help you incorporate sought-after features, ensuring that your home will be both comfortable and appealing to potential buyers in the future.

Your Kitchen: The Heart of the Home

The kitchen is the centerpiece of a home and provides one of the highest returns on investment. Whether you build with family dinners, entertaining friends, or simply daily use in mind, a well-designed kitchen significantly boosts the appeal of your home.

During the design phase, keep in mind that potential buyers are looking for functionality, quality finishes, and an open, welcoming space.

Kitchen Features to Implement:

• High-end, durable countertops such as quartz, granite, or marble
• Modern, energy-efficient appliances
• Custom cabinetry with plenty of storage space
• An open-concept layout that encourages flow and easy entertaining
• Ample lighting to brighten the space, including large windows for natural light

When it’s time to sell, a well-appointed kitchen with premium finishes will be a top-selling feature for buyers in areas like Ancaster, Dundas, Oakville and Burlington, where buyers are looking for luxury and functionality in their dream homes.

Flooring: Durability and Aesthetic Appeal

Flooring is one of the first things potential buyers notice when entering a home. Choose flooring materials that are both stylish and durable–and preferably neutral. Durable hardwood and engineered hardwood are popular choices that appeal to a wide range of buyers due to their longevity and timeless appeal.

Flooring Considerations:

• Hardwood floors are timeless and appeal to most buyers, providing a warm and welcoming, natural aesthetic
• Neutral-colored tiles or natural stone in bathrooms and kitchens offer a clean, polished look

Choosing quality flooring that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing will help you enjoy your home but also boost its appeal for prospective buyers.

Bathrooms: Luxury and Functionality

Bathrooms can be selling points in homes, especially in the luxury market. While building your custom home, work with your designer to create bathrooms that offer both luxury and practicality. Opt for spacious, modern layouts with high-end finishes that will appeal to a wide range of potential buyers in high-demand markets like Burlington, Oakville and Ancaster.

Bathroom Features That Add Value:

• Frameless glass showers or soaker tubs that create a relaxing spa-like feel
• Double vanities for added convenience
• High-end finishes like marble countertops, designer tile and energy-efficient plumbing fixtures
• Plenty of storage with custom cabinetry

A well-appointed bathroom with high-quality finishes can help elevate your custom home’s resale value and make it more appealing to buyers.

The Basement: Maximize Usable Space

It can be tempting when planning out your custom home build to leave the basement unfinished, but keep in mind that finishing your basement is a great way to increase the livable square footage of your custom home, adding comfort and value. If you’re building a home in Oakville or Burlington, where additional living space is highly valued, consider designing a basement that can be used for a variety of purposes—whether as a family room, gym, guest suite, or home theater. When it comes to resale value, buyers are often looking for additional flexible spaces that fit their needs so making the investment in a finished basement pays off!

Basement Choices with ROI in mind:

• High ceilings and ample natural light (if possible) to create a bright, open feel
• A reputable builder will ensure that insulation and proper moisture protection provide a dry and comfortable space–most buyers will be looking for this in an inspection report
• A bathroom or wet bar for added convenience and appeal

A finished basement with multi-use options is a great way for you and your family to enjoy extra living space without needing to add a full additional floor; it also provides great value for the future as a selling feature.

Landscaping: Curb Appeal Matters

When building a custom home, don’t overlook the importance of curb appeal. The first impression of your home—both to buyers and anyone passing by—starts with landscaping. Kennedy + Kennel provides a landscaping package as an option when building. The strength in contracting your builder for the property’s landscaping is that they already have working knowledge of the plans for your home and can design a more integrated look that will compliment the house best. In terms of re-sale, a well-maintained yard and thoughtful landscaping enhances your home’s aesthetic and signals to prospective buyers that the property has been well cared for.

Landscaping Tips:

• Low-maintenance landscaping with drought-resistant plants
• A neatly manicured lawn, along with lots of greenery and flower beds
• Consider hardscaping elements such as pathways, patios, or retaining walls to add visual interest and provide inviting outdoor living spaces
• Ensure your front and backyard are functional spaces that are easy to enjoy

Hiring a professional landscaper who can implement the above and put together a functional and beautiful outdoor plan is worth the investment. A home with great curb appeal provides an inviting space to come home to each day but also stands out to buyers, helping your property to attract attention and make a positive first impression.

Your Garage: A Functional and Attractive Space

The garage is often one of the largest and most functional areas of a home. A well-designed garage not only provides storage and convenience but can also add to the overall aesthetic of the home. Integrate features into the garage that will appeal to potential buyers, such as extra storage, high-quality doors, and a clean, tidy look.

Garage Features to Include:

• Make sure the garage is insulated for added energy efficiency
• Prioritize organized storage options, such as built-in shelves or cabinetry
• A clean, polished floor to create a neat and welcoming space

An organized and visually appealing garage can add both functionality and value to your custom home, making it a strong selling point in the future.

Entry Door and Foyer: The Gateway to Your Home

The entry door provides the first contact with your home, making it a critical showpiece. A stylish, high-quality front door sets the tone for the rest of the home and enhances curb appeal. Choose a door that complements your home’s architectural style and adds to the overall charm of the property.

An Impactful Entryway:

• A modern, durable door made of wood, steel, or fiberglass
• Elegant hardware and custom features that match the overall home design
• A welcoming, open foyer with a functional design

A high end entry door provides not only security and energy efficiency but also makes a lasting first impression on buyers.