Upgrades Nor or later for a new Home

[FloridaKash]

I say, as a first time homeowner you need to get hubby out there and learn how to be handy if he isn't already. The only way you learn is by getting your hands dirty. His first few projects will probably either A) Not look real good or B) Take forever to do.... until he gets the hang of things. It's growing pains but well worth it. I rarely ever hire anybody to come in my home and do some work. I do have a couple of projects coming up that require cutting holes in my cinder block exterior walls, for this I will hire a professional. I'll put the window in myself though.

[Briolat21]

Builders make most of their money on these upgrades...

I would pay for the rough-in for the laundry sink, but not the sink installation itself. Other than that, I'd wait and learn some DIY skills and do these things myself.

I also wouldn't have a builder build a deck (they overcharge terribly), but doesn't sound like that's an option.

[fallingwater]

I would not pay that kind of money to have the garage door opener installed. You can go buy one at Sears and have them install it for less than half of what the builder wants. The rest of it I would probably pay to just to have it done before I moved in. Its a rip off yes but there is a lot of stress in building a home and moving.

[nynraleigh]

Are you able to negotiate a better price if you do all of these items through the builder? I would state to the builder...I'm spending x amount on the house already, I want these items done and I'm willing to pay x amount. See what he/she states...worth the attempt. Also, where is your buyer's agent to help with your negotiations?