In today's world, there are many choices to be made when it comes to building a new home. You have to decide on everything from the style of the house to the builder you want to use.

But with many options, how do you ensure you make the right decisions for your family?

Here are seven things to consider before building your new home.

1. Compare Different Home Builders

During the preconstruction phase, you will need to choose the team that will help you execute your home-building project. The first thing you need to do is compare different home builders.

Not all builders are created equal, and you want to ensure you're working with a reputable company with experience building the type of home you want.

Note that your builder will not be able to provide a reliable quote unless you have architectural drawings available and can specify the finish you are after. A high-end finish will cost more.

If you don't yet have architectural drawings to share, your builder may only be able to provide you with a high-level estimate.

The high-level estimate can change dramatically once all your requirements are shared with the builder. It can also be affected during the build, by changes in requirements or specifications by your structural engineer.

2. Research the Building Regulations in Your Area

Before you start building, you need to research the building regulations and zoning laws in your area. These laws and regulations will dictate where you can build your home and what type of home you can build. Make sure you understand all the regulations before you start construction.

Some areas have very strict laws that only allow certain types of homes to be built (to preserve the look of an area) as well as introducing restrictions on the size of your home. Others are lax and will allow you to build the home of your dreams.

3. Find a Reliable Contractor

Once you've found a builder you trust, it's time to find a reliable contractor. The contractor will be responsible for building your home, so you want to ensure they're up for the task. Many design and build London based firms can be found with simple searches or through Houzz.

Request referrals from friends or family members who may have recently built a home. Then, interview several different contractors and compare their rates. Ensure to ask for references and check them out before you make your final decision.

4. Choose the Right Materials

The materials you use to build your home will significantly impact its overall quality. Your contractor can help you choose the best materials for your climate and your budget.

Be aware that cheaper materials may not last as long as more expensive ones. Also, while the quality is up to you and your budget, you may still have certain constraints as to the type of material you use. For example, your building permit may have a condition that you use products similar to those of your home.

And while you may well think that all bricks are the same, if your home is built with hard-to-find bricks (like London weathered Buff - a yellow brick with grey and black spotting) you may end up paying three times more to match it!

Also, check with your contractor about the equipment that he/she may need to rent during the build. For example, will they bring their digger or concrete mixer truck or will they be renting one?

5. Get Energy-Efficient Products

When you're building a new home, it's crucial to choose energy-efficient products. These products will save you money on your utility bills and help reduce your carbon footprint. Search for products with the energy star label when making your selections.

6. Consider Your Home's Location

The location of your home is just as important as the home itself. It would be best if you considered things like the schools in the area, the crime rate, and the proximity to amenities.

If you have young children, you'll want to be sure there are good schools nearby. And if you're looking for a quiet neighborhood, you'll want to find a community that meets your needs.

7. Stay Within Your Budget

You don't want to go into debt just to build your dream home. Instead, be realistic about what you can afford and stick to your budget. By doing this, you can be sure you'll be happy with your new home for years to come.

Additionally, you may want to consider building a smaller home. Not only will it be more affordable, but it will also be easier to maintain.

There are always ways to stay within budget if you are smart. If you want a dreamy kitchen that looks and feels high end for example: invest in mid-range cabinets but add high end quartz worktops. And talking about kitchen: have a look at the latest kitchen trends.

Other Things You Might Need to Consider

You might need to consider other things before building your new home. Some of these include:

• Hiring an architect: If you want a truly custom home, you may need to hire an architect. This professional can help you design the perfect home for your family: MP Chartered Architects, architects in Essex.

• Getting permits: You'll need the proper permits before starting construction. Your contractor should be able to help you with this process.

• Buying insurance: It's essential to have insurance on your new home. It will protect you in case of any accidents or damage during construction.

• Choosing a plot of land: If you're not buying an existing home, you'll need to choose a plot of land to build on. It can be a daunting task, but your builder should be able to help you find the perfect spot for your new home.

• Using metal structures as outbuildings to reduce the cost of building.

Building a new home is a big undertaking, but it can be a great experience if you're prepared. Be sure to research and compare different builders before you make your final decision.

Additionally, stay within your budget and choose suitable materials for your home. By following these tips, you can be sure you'll be happy with your new home for years.

Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.

Download her free bathroom renovation guide here.