Options

How do you decide what is really necessary, what is important for re-sale, and what is just plain superfluous? We had chosen the smallest model available in this development. Therefore by definition ours would be entry level for second generation buyers. However, we wanted to insure that potential buyers would see value in the house, with enough 'extras' to make it attractive.

The 'morning room' was certainly an essential for us. It gave us the necessary living space to make this an effective solution. Washer/Dryer upstairs, as well as two bathrooms were also essential options for the three of us. We also elected to have shower stalls instead of tubs in the two bathrooms. It is too hard for us 'older folks' to negotiate stepping over the high wall of the tub every day. This choice may be a detractor to the next buyer, but I felt it was a mandatory option for us. We opted for larger master closet space, giving up the two story open foyer.

Downstairs we had another choice. We decided to maximize our perception of space by opting for 9 ft ceilings. Hopefully the increased volume will alleviate the downsizing effect of less floor space. It also allows to get the 42 inch cabinets in the kitchen (needed storage). A 'splurge' was adding hardwood floors from the foyer, extending back through the kitchen.

We also added "whole house smart wiring" a security system (including intercom) and another splurge, speaker wiring for the Great Room. However the biggest extravagance was for a central vacuum system. We felt that this would bring added value to the small house and raise our comfort and enjoyment level up a notch. Otherwise, we went with standard builder carpeting, faucets and counter tops. These will be upgraded later, probably with multiple trips to Home Depot.