ᐅ House Planning – Avoiding Mistakes in the Early Stages

Hello everyone,

I/we plan to start building in about 3-4 years, and I am already researching diligently. Better too early than too late. 🙂
I’m not sure if there is already a thread like this, but I couldn’t find anything with my search terms. If there is, please forgive me. Also, is this topic even in the right forum?

We already have a rough plan in mind for our future dream house. The design and layout are inspired by the "Modo Home MH5." May I post a floor plan of this house here for a rough overview?

The suitable plot of land is around 4000 sqm (43055 sq ft) and mostly flat (no typo) — the connection request is already in progress.
Brief keywords:
- Bungalow with a flat shed roof facing east → large windows facing south/west
- Double garage
- Covered large terrace
- Approximately 220 sqm (2368 sq ft) of living space
- No basement
- Large photovoltaic system + battery (our next car will very likely be a BEV. Smart charging with photovoltaic power)
- Controlled mechanical ventilation with heat recovery
- Possibly KNX control system + alarm
- No roof windows or roof structures (chimneys, satellite dishes, etc.)
- Budget for the house is about €400,000-500,000

Since we are still at the beginning of the planning phase and I am also researching materials (solid construction, timber frame, etc.), efficiency classes, heating methods (air/water or ground/water heat pump), I wanted to ask what you would have done differently right from the start or what should be taken care of early on.

I would find fundamental advice like “definitely don’t build solid because…” as helpful as small tips like “make sure to have a power outlet in area XY.”
My plan is to build the house as “finished” as possible, to avoid things later like high ongoing costs, early remodeling, or avoidable multiple power strips and cables.

So far, these are the things I have considered:
- Completely single-story and barrier-free (including showers, etc.)
- Wider doors (in case a wheelchair is needed someday)
- Wastewater heat recovery in the shower
- Centralized technology, e.g., ceiling speakers with a central amplifier, and devices like an AV receiver and computer/server will all be placed in the technology room
- Many LAN/fiber optic connections in rooms and the ceiling (for access points)
- Many power outlets with integrated USB-C ports
- All cables that can become outdated are installed in conduit pipes to allow easy replacement

As you can see, this list is still very tech-focused since we both work in IT. 🙂
I am currently reading up and gathering information in other areas as well.

This thread is also meant to highlight things other “home builders” might not have thought of yet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.

Best regards