Having done all the research, toured model homes, and narrowed your search to a plan that you like and a builder you want to work with, it's time to think about customizing the plan for your new home.

Being able to add a little space to the master bedroom or kitchen, move that doorway slightly to accommodate your china cabinet, or fine-tune exterior details are benefits of being involved right from the start.

Ask what features or upgrades are available, as it is often much less expensive and disruptive to add these during construction. Some areas to consider:

Exterior
Choosing a premium version of your home's elevation (how it looks from the street) can not only give you satisfaction, but may up resale value. Examples include front porches, bay windows, stone trim and a room over the garage.

Kitchen
Choices in cabinets, countertops, sinks, faucets and appliances seem unlimited as this room has become the hub of the modern home. Often open to a family room, entertainment area or great room, cabinets have taken on the look of furniture with a variety of finishes and styles incorporated into one cohesive design.

Flooring
Rich-looking yet easy-to-maintain hardwood flooring remains popular. Installing one later by yourself is not something most people can do well or cost-effectively. Ceramic tile for kitchens, hallways and bathrooms is also popular, thanks in part to the diverse colours and sizes available and the talented craftspeople in this area.

Plumbing
An extra bathroom provides value right from the start and will prove invaluable if grown kids move back home. It also can enhance resale value. Upgraded faucets and fixtures can add to the profile of a kitchen and bathroom and go a long way to define or enhance the decor.

Electrical
Items such as computer network cables and pot lights can be costly to retrofit. Pre-wiring for built-in audio systems, computers, telephones and overhead fixtures can save a lot of money. You also can have your builder install conduits from the basement to strategic areas of your house to accommodate future technologies.

Air Conditioning
For some, it's a luxury, for others, a necessity. If you install a system later, you'll void the warranty on your mechanical system. If you have budget constraints, at least consider having it roughed in.

Natural Gas
You can also ensure your home is gas-ready -- prepared to accommodate natural gas fireplaces, pool heaters, barbecues and other appliances. With the gas line in place, future connection will be easier and resale value will be enhanced.

Trim Details
Chair rails and crown or cornice mouldings add elegance and presence to any room. Available in paint or stain finish, trim's an easy way of distinguishing your personal style.

Windows and doors
Always dreamed of curling up and reading in a bay window overlooking a garden? Check to see if there is a spot in the home plan you've selected. If the plan doesn't show one, that doesn't mean a regular window in the master bedroom or family room can't be changed. Interior and exterior doors also come in a variety of styles.

Colour
Whether you like the tranquillity of one paint shade throughout your home or the pop that fresh new colours can provide, ask your builder what's standard. Some dark colours can be an upgrade due to the labour required for extra coats.

Break out your imagination -- the sky and your budget are the only limits!