Buying or building your dream home is one of the most exciting and important milestones in life. But between house hunting, monthly mortgage payments, and improvement projects, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when trying to decide where to spend and where to save money. Whether purchasing a fixer-upper or designing from scratch, prioritizing spending helps you make informed decisions that fit your financial situation and lifestyle.
At Deskins, Inc., we’ve helped countless homeowners through every stage of the home improvement process—from the initial home search to custom renovations. This guide will walk you through how to prioritize spending for your new home and ensure your money goes where it makes the most significant impact.
Before you choose features like hardwood floors or high-end appliances, the first step is to get a clear picture of your financial situation. Creating a realistic budget helps you determine what you can afford and provides a solid foundation for every subsequent choice.
Leave room in your budget (around 10–15%) for unexpected costs—repairs, changes in scope, or supply chain delays can and do happen.
Think of your home as more than a single box to check—it’s a long-term investment that should support your safety, comfort, and daily life. That’s why it’s essential to focus first on repairs and upgrades that prevent further damage and maintain livability.
Before you finalize your purchase, a professional home inspection can reveal critical issues that may be hidden. Look for red flags like:
Once essential repairs are handled, it’s time to prioritize improvements that enhance function, add value, and elevate your lifestyle.
Your must-haves are the features your family needs to live comfortably—think additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or expanded outdoor space. Your wish list may include upgrades like a water feature, bright lighting, or custom cabinets.
Consider adding access to outdoor amenities like patios, decks, or fire pits—especially if your property connects to scenic hiking trails or parks.
A new home isn’t just a project—it’s a living process. To maintain its value and your peace of mind, it is essential to plan.
Set aside 3–6 months of living expenses. This ensures you can pay your bills and handle unexpected repairs—such as a burst pipe or roof leak—without relying on credit.
Include regular maintenance in your long-term budget:
These routine tasks help save money by preventing major issues down the line.
Invest in energy-efficient upgrades, such as solar panels, double-pane windows, or smart thermostats. These reduce utility bills and support a more sustainable lifestyle.
Let’s say you’ve closed on a charming fixer-upper in a great location with room to grow. Here’s how you might prioritize:
This approach maintains a balanced budget while enhancing comfort, safety, and style.
Need to expand your home instead? See how our home additions can add functional space for a growing family without the need to move.
When it comes to home improvement and spending, there’s no one-size-fits-all process. By focusing first on essential repairs, understanding your financial limits, and balancing your must-haves with your wish list, you’ll make confident choices that bring your dream home to life, without breaking the bank.
★★★★★ Our Testimonials
“The professionalism of each person involved in the process, as well as the quality of the work, from the first meeting through the 1-year follow-up, was unsurpassed. All those involved were in tune with every detail from start to finish and guided us from an intimidating prospect into a seamless reality.”
— Elaine
At Deskins, Inc., we work with homeowners every day to plan renovations that reflect their values, goals, and budget. From custom home building to strategic remodeling and additions, we help you prioritize spending, improve your space, and build a better future.
Contact Deskins, Inc. to start your home project today.
In 2019, James and Sara Deskins embarked on a journey to create a construction company that not only serves their community but also upholds their values. With James’ hands-on expertise in building and Sara’s unwavering support behind the scenes, Deskins Inc. was born out of a shared vision. They currently live in Botetourt County with their 3 children, Noah, Rylan, and Kate, who keep them busy with various extra-curricular activities. Together the Deskins are committed to excellence and integrity and are guided by their faith, which has been the cornerstone of their business.
Darren Beckner, the Vice President of Construction, is leader of all superintendents and responsible for overseeing all aspects of a construction project. He is also involved in planning and managing the project from its earliest stages, including developing a budget and identifying potential contractors, to the final stages of the final walkthrough and budget reconciliation. Mr. Beckner has been with Deskins Incorporated since 2020 and comes with almost 15 years of construction field experience. Because of his commitment to excellence, in April 2024, James brought on Darren as partner, and they are working together to build an organization that honors God. Darren is married to Lauren. He has four daughters: Savannah, Brooklyn, Harper and Millie.