The excitement to create and plan your new construction is mounting, yet total exhaustion is present as there are so many decisions to make. There is so much to think about and so many different phases of a new home.

Tom and I have built a new construction and I totally understand all the emotions that go along with building a home. I wanted to give you a few ideas on a couple of different approaches for decorating your interior. There are basically three ways to build a home.

1. Do it yourself
2. Hire a custom builder
3. Buy a home for construction from a larger building company

This is one of your first decisions when building a new construction. It doesn't matter which one of these three you decide on, the planning of the entire project is a big job. The key is to understand all the options that you may have and also, not jump the gun when decorating. I have been on consultations of new homes with people, and one of the things I like to talk to them about is a couple of options they may want to consider.

Building a house will differ in geographic locations, and if you are building your own home, you will have the ability to create more options for interior decorating. Many custom builders and larger companies offer different design plans, and upgrades. These are important items that need to be discussed before you begin to build.

From the foundation right up to the last phase of landscaping, create and plan or draft out your entire building project. Notebooks and a journal is a must, and I also recommend taking pictures from the start to finish.

I like to consider different phases with a new construction both inside and outside. In my other Web site, landscape solutions for you, there are a couple of pages on a new construction, and also a simple landscape design on building a new home. It is so important to plan for each stage of construction. Here are a few things to think about when building a home and maybe some of your options.

1. Painting - start with neutral colors throughout the home, condo or other living space. This option allows you live in the area for a little while and get comfortable with every room. If you are having the house built, find out if the walls are being primed properly. In the walls and ceiling section, there are some tips on how to create a good foundation for you rooms.



2. Flooring - there may be several options for you such as upgrades. Consider your long range plan when you pick out flooring. If you know exactly what you want to plan to have the flooring for a long time, go ahead and invest in your flooring of your choice.
   
   If you are unsure in different rooms, go with the basic and possibly upgrade at a later date. Remember your colors of your walls when you are picking out flooring. Factors for floors also include high traffic areas and the quality of flooring you have installed. Good quality flooring is a plus for high traffic areas.



3. Counter tops are an essential part of kitchens and bathrooms. Research the different possibilities that you have. Don't always go with the cheapest and don't overspend on certain counter tops, and regret when your budget is max out. Remember, your taste can change over the years.



4. Lighting - installed lighting is an important and is a necessity in a new construction. Again, look at the different options you have. Recessed lighting is very popular today.



5. Built in cabinets or bookshelfs are also a trend that has been popular over the last few years. Think about this option in certain rooms and also the position and space that is available for your furniture. I have found some people love the idea of a built in bookshelf, and then regret it after one year as they feel their furniture doesn't fit properly. Bookshelfs also can be a space saver, so take your time with this decision if you are considering built in shelfs.



6. Windows - Windows play an important role in your budget with heat and air conditioning. Know the quality of the windows, style, and also look at your north, south, west and east and how the sun will affect a room at certain times a day. There are many different styles to choose from today. Again, its a great idea to do a little research on companies and the quality of windows.

The six items above are just a few things to think about when you create the interior of your new home, condo, beach house, or other living space. I remember many times Tom and I were on overload when we built our home. So many decisions to make and some in a short amount of time.

As I look back now and see the mistakes, along with the right decisions, it was a great learning experience. I have been drawing up some draft plans for a possible retirement home for us. From building our first home, to living in many different existing homes, and helping other people formulate a plan to create their own haven, three things to review.

The first is to plan out the entire project. Don't rush to create the interior decorating just to get it done. Second, is to keep a journal and books with all the information on building. The third is to take pictures from the beginning to end. These simple three items can make your new construction a little less stressful, and a happy occasion.