lalexa wrote:
heather22003 - My list grows every time I visit the DC as well! My list is similar to yours
fahmidalipi - We considered a marble-looking tile for the front entrance foyer, but the level 1 tiles alone are more expensive than hardwood, so we will be going with hardwood in the foyer instead. I'm also going to get hardwood in the kitchen and possibly upstairs hall (if it makes the budget). Our first floor has an open concept layout, so I think one floor throughout will look best.
We are considering upgrading the tiles in the garage entrance and powder room, but not sure if it's worth it as this area in our model is separated from the first floor by a few steps.
We'll spend the bulk of the money in the kitchen. The wish list includes: upgraded cabinets, the "executive" or "master layout," stacked cabinets, and a few glass inserts. We will either delete the hood fan, or leave the existing hood fan and upgrade after close. And I'm interested in the faux island, but $1000+ for fake doors seems crazy! But I may cave and get it lol. We will do quartz/granite countertops after close.
We are also planning on upgrading the master ensuite with Lvl 1 tiles and cabinets (the standard white cabinets have an unattractive bumpy texture, and as heather22003 said, the cost of upgrading the cabinets in the bathroom isn't too bad - i think $100-200?) We may also do the double sinks but we're unsure if it's worth the cost ($1000). We will do quartz/granite countertops after close.
Other upgrades we going for are the gas line for the stove and bbq, and the plasma ready wall over the fireplace.
I'm also thinking of upgrading all the doors to smooth finish,but husband thinks this is a waste. And I also want to look at the cost of changing the sliding closet doors in the bedrooms but will need to find out if the cost worth it.
Soon after possession will do AC (necessary in July!), garage door opener, and the painting. Down the road we will do: quartz/granite countertops in the kitchen and bath, backsplash, wider baseboard and crown moulding, and island pendants, pot lights. And probably lots more I can't think of right now!
I know what you mean about stuff adding up quickly!! I liked riz1234 comment about starting up a go fund me page....lol
I would suggest you do some research before going all out as you can certainly save money on stuff. I priced out hardwood floors for the 2nd floor with Mattamy, vs going to the Flooring store in Milton and a flooring place in Norval, and was quoted a little less than 1/2 price for the material, there is no way that install will add up to what Mattamy is charging. I was going to do hardwood in the foyer possibly as well, however I was fortunate enough to work with a designer that helped me pick my colours and such, and she convinced me that is wasn't a good idea, since it is more a high traffic area, and more possibility of damage over the winter months with the salt and snow being tracked in.
I've contacted Frendel, and they tell me that you can order stuff directly from them after closing. You just need to wait 3 months, and they will colour match, just need to give them a door or something they can colour match it to. Might be an option if is you are somewhat handy and can install the faux doors after yourself. (The draw back is that you have to pick up and install yourself).
The double sink for sure is worth the money in the ensuites and adds value to the home. I was going to have it done by Mattamy, however there are other things I also wanted in the ensuite which Mattamy cannot do, therefore I will not be doing through them. I will be doing demo upon taking possession and redoing then ensuite.
I went with the fireplace, it is not in the DC book, however you can opt for a more modern looking insert. (black glass in lieu of the logs). I also priced that out with a local store and the price seemed reasonable. I would recommend if you have a TV above that you get the blower, as it will tend to get very hot. You may notice that the life your TV will be cut short do to the heat. (At least this is what both the fireplace store and my designer told me.)
Replacing the sliding doors were on my list to, however this is something I will do after moving in. I'm fortunate enough to work for a construction company, therefore know people in the trade and ran the list and pricing by them to get their advise as to what to do know vs. after.
One thing you may not have considered it the frost free bib in the back yard. Not that expensive with the builders, I think $69.00 if I recall, but I think would be well worth it.
Hope that helps a little with your decision process.