How to Choose the Perfect Finishes

Taylor Law • March 28, 2022

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Finishes for Your Custom Home


Building a custom home is an exciting journey that allows you to create a space tailored to your style and needs. However, deciding on finishes—such as flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures—can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To make the process enjoyable and stress-free, here are some expert tips to guide you through selecting the perfect finishes for your dream home.


1. Start with Your Vision and Lifestyle

Before diving into options, consider how you want your home to feel and function. Are you dreaming of a sleek, modern look, or do you prefer a cozy, traditional style? Think about your lifestyle:

Do you have kids or pets? Durable, easy-to-clean materials like LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) or quartz countertops may be your best bet.

Love to entertain? Opt for finishes that wow your guests but are practical, like a statement kitchen backsplash paired with low-maintenance surfaces.


2. Set a Realistic Budget

While it’s tempting to go all-out, custom homes are a balancing act between splurge-worthy items and budget-friendly choices. Allocate more of your budget to high-impact areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, or flooring while saving on areas that can be updated later, such as light fixtures or cabinet hardware.


3. Work from the Ground Up

Your flooring sets the tone for your home. Whether you choose hardwood, tile, or carpet, ensure it complements the other finishes. Select flooring first, then match countertops, cabinetry, and paint to create a cohesive palette.


4. Stick to a Color Palette

Consistency is key when tying together a custom home’s design. Choose a color palette of 3–5 complementary shades for your entire home. Neutral tones with pops of color can create a timeless look, while bold colors work well for accent walls or smaller details.


5. Prioritize Functionality

Beautiful finishes are only worthwhile if they suit your daily needs. For instance:

Opt for matte finishes in high-touch areas to minimize fingerprints.

Choose stain-resistant and durable materials in areas prone to spills or heavy use.


6. Embrace Expert Guidance

Your builder, designer, or contractor has seen it all. Lean on their expertise to navigate trends, identify quality materials, and find solutions that fit your style and budget.


7. Test Samples in Your Space

Lighting and surroundings can significantly impact how finishes look. Request samples of flooring, paint, and countertops, and view them in the room they’ll be used—at different times of day—to ensure you’re happy with the choice.


8. Don’t Forget the Details

The smaller details, like cabinet hardware, faucets, and lighting, bring your design together. Think of these as the “jewelry” of your home—they add personality and polish to your space.


9. Consider Long-Term Appeal

While it’s fun to follow design trends, consider how your choices will age. For a timeless home, opt for classic styles and add trendier elements through easily changeable décor.


10. Take Your Time

Don’t rush your decisions. Choosing finishes is a significant part of building your custom home, and taking the time to find what you truly love will result in a home you’ll cherish for years to come.


Ready to Build Your Dream Home?



When building a custom home, every decision counts, and choosing the right finishes can make your space feel uniquely yours. If you’re unsure where to start, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way. Let’s work together to bring your vision to life!

Contact us today to discuss your dream custom home and explore finish options tailored just for you!

A living room with a brown couch , white chairs , a coffee table and a large window.

The Importance of Staging Your Home to Sell

By Taylor Law • March 28, 2022
The Importance of Staging Your Home to Sell When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter. Staging your home—strategically arranging furniture, décor, and spaces—can transform it into an inviting, market-ready property that attracts buyers. A well-staged home not only stands out in photos and showings but also helps buyers envision themselves living in the space. Here’s why staging is a crucial step in the selling process and how it can help you achieve a quicker, more profitable sale. 1. First Impressions Happen Online In today’s digital age, most buyers begin their search online, scrolling through listings before scheduling a showing. High-quality, staged photos can grab their attention and encourage them to take the next step. Staging highlights your home’s best features, from spacious living areas to natural light. Professionally staged homes often look more polished and appealing in online photos, increasing the likelihood of showings. 2. Helps Buyers Visualize Their Future Staging creates a neutral, welcoming environment that allows buyers to see themselves living in your home. By minimizing distractions and showcasing a home’s functionality, staging helps buyers: Imagine how they would arrange their furniture and belongings. Focus on the space itself rather than your personal décor. Feel emotionally connected to the home, which can lead to faster offers. 3. Highlights Your Home’s Best Features Every home has unique selling points, and staging helps draw attention to them. A cozy fireplace can become the focal point of a living room with the right furniture arrangement. Neutral bedding and clean lines can transform a bedroom into a serene retreat. Clearing clutter from countertops makes kitchens and bathrooms look larger and more functional. Staging ensures no feature goes unnoticed. 4. Maximizes Your Space Staging is especially important if your home has unique layouts or smaller spaces. Properly placed furniture can: Make small rooms feel larger and more functional. Define open-concept layouts by showing how each area can be used. Balance awkward spaces, helping buyers see potential where they might otherwise see challenges. 5. Minimizes Flaws No home is perfect, but staging can help downplay minor imperfections. A fresh coat of paint and modern décor can distract from outdated finishes. Stylish rugs or furniture arrangements can mask less-than-ideal flooring or awkward layouts. Staging helps buyers focus on the positives rather than the flaws. 6. Creates an Emotional Connection Buying a home is as much an emotional decision as it is a financial one. Staging sets the stage—literally—for buyers to feel a sense of “home” when they walk through the door. Thoughtful touches like fresh flowers or a cozy throw blanket can create warmth. Neutral yet inviting décor ensures buyers feel comfortable and welcomed. 7. Increases Perceived Value A staged home often looks more expensive and well-maintained, which can justify a higher asking price. Buyers are more likely to perceive your home as move-in ready, reducing hesitations and increasing their willingness to pay. 8. Sells Faster According to real estate industry data, staged homes typically sell faster than their non-staged counterparts. The quicker your home sells, the less time you spend worrying about upkeep and the sooner you can move on to your next chapter. 9. Staging Works for Any Budget Contrary to popular belief, staging doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple, cost-effective updates like: Decluttering and depersonalizing. Rearranging existing furniture for better flow. Adding a few decorative touches like throw pillows or mirrors. If you have the budget, professional stagers can elevate your home’s appeal even further. Final Thoughts Staging your home is an investment that pays off by helping you sell faster and at the best possible price. It showcases your home’s potential, appeals to a wider range of buyers, and ensures it stands out in a competitive market. If you’re preparing to sell your home, consider staging as an essential step in the process. Contact us today for expert advice on staging, marketing, and selling your home quickly and successfully!
A living room with blue furniture and a wooden coffee table.

Features Homebuyers Expect in West Texas

By Taylor Law • March 28, 2022
Features West Texas Homebuyers Expect in Today’s Market West Texas is a region known for its unique blend of wide-open spaces, warm weather, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re building a custom home or planning to sell, it’s important to consider the features that appeal to buyers in this area. From energy efficiency to outdoor living, here’s what homebuyers in West Texas expect in today’s market. 1. Energy-Efficient Designs for the West Texas Climate With long, hot summers and cool nights, energy efficiency is a must for West Texas homes. Buyers look for: High-quality insulation and energy-efficient windows to maintain consistent indoor temperatures. Smart thermostats to optimize cooling and reduce energy bills. Solar panels, which are a great option in this sunny region and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. 2. Outdoor Living Spaces West Texans love spending time outdoors, so functional and comfortable outdoor areas are highly desirable. Popular features include: Covered patios to provide shade and a space to relax during hot afternoons. Outdoor kitchens with built-in grills and prep areas, perfect for hosting family and friends. Low-maintenance landscaping with drought-tolerant plants and xeriscaping to conserve water while adding curb appeal. 3. Open-Concept Floor Plans With an emphasis on family gatherings and entertaining, open-concept layouts are a priority for many West Texas buyers. A seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas allows for easy interaction and maximizes space. 4. Durable and Stylish Flooring West Texas homes often experience heavy foot traffic from families, pets, and outdoor activities. Buyers prefer: Durable options like luxury vinyl plank or tile that can withstand dirt, dust, and wear. Warm, neutral tones that complement the natural aesthetic of the area. 5. Gourmet Kitchens with Southwestern Charm The kitchen is the heart of the home, and in West Texas, it’s also a hub for entertaining. Buyers look for: Large kitchen islands with seating. Durable countertops like quartz or granite. Southwestern-inspired touches, such as tile backsplashes with bold patterns or earthy tones. 6. Climate-Smart Features Homes in West Texas benefit from features designed for the region’s specific weather patterns, such as: Metal or composite roofs that are durable and energy-efficient. Rainwater collection systems for irrigation during dry spells. Storm-resistant materials to protect against high winds common in certain areas. 7. Spacious Primary Suites West Texas homebuyers appreciate primary suites that serve as a retreat. Must-haves include: Large windows that let in natural light. Walk-in closets with ample storage. Bathrooms with walk-in showers, double vanities, and soaking tubs for a touch of luxury. 8. Secondary Living Spaces and Flex Rooms With many families in West Texas valuing space and flexibility, extra rooms are highly appealing. These can be used as: A home office, which is increasingly important for remote work. A game or media room for family activities. A guest suite for visiting relatives and friends. 9. Oversized Garages and Storage Solutions Given the active lifestyle of many West Texans, ample storage is a must. Buyers look for: Oversized garages that can accommodate trucks, recreational vehicles, and tools. Mudrooms with built-in storage for boots, jackets, and outdoor gear. 10. Location-Specific Landscaping The natural beauty of West Texas calls for landscaping that complements the environment while being practical. Popular features include: Native plants that thrive in arid conditions. Gravel or stone pathways instead of grass lawns, which require less maintenance and water. Outdoor lighting to enhance the appeal of patios and gardens at night. 11. Smart Home Features Technology is increasingly expected in West Texas homes. Buyers appreciate: Smart security systems to monitor wide properties. Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats, lighting, and irrigation systems for convenience. Built-in sound systems for entertaining both indoors and outdoors. 12. Community-Focused Design West Texas communities are often tight-knit, and homebuyers value designs that promote connection, such as: Front porches for casual conversations with neighbors. Open living areas ideal for hosting gatherings. Spacious yards for kids and pets to play safely. Final Thoughts? By incorporating these features, you can ensure your West Texas home meets the expectations of today’s buyers while maximizing its value. Whether you’re building a custom home or upgrading to sell, focusing on what appeals to the local market will help you make the most of your investment. Contact us today to learn more about designing a home that perfectly suits West Texas living. From energy efficiency to stylish finishes, we’ll help you create a home that buyers will love!
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