Interior Finishes
When you are absolutely certain that everything has been roughed-in properly, it is time to finish the walls, install the doors & trim, hang the cabinets, put down the hardwood flooring, install ceramic tile, and cover everything that doesn’t move with either paper, plastic, or paint.
This is also just about the time that you start worrying about the fact that your existing house still hasn’t sold and the kids are going to have to change schools midterm. Well don’t get too concerned yet. There is still a lot of work to do before you will be able to move into a completed home.
After the paint, the next things to be installed are the light fixtures, counter tops, appliances, plumbing fixtures, mirrors, shower doors, security systems, door knobs, towel bars, and toilet paper holders. Most of these things will even be installed in the correct locations.
Exterior Finishes
While work is progressing inside, there is much to be done outside as well. Keep in mind that almost all of the exterior finishes need to be designed and installed to keep out the elements and protect the main structure for as long as possible.
The exterior finishes might be any combination of brick, stone, stucco, vinyl, aluminum, concrete, or wood. Before you make a final decision, you need to take into consideration the weather conditions in the area where you are building and how much time you will be able to spend on maintaining the outside of your house. How much will you really save by not using brick if you are going to have to paint every few years?
Landscaping
Landscaping can tie your house together with the land. Properly placed trees can help keep your house cooler in the summer, and protect it from cold winter winds.
The walks, patios, pool, walls, pond, and plantings that make up a landscape can easily represent a sizeable expense, yet they are very important in making a new house look and feel like a home.
All too often, because this is one of the last phases of the job, people forget about the importance of blending the structure with nature. Be sure to make a reasonable budget for landscaping and try very hard not to spend it on something else.