Funding your project

The first step of funding your project is essential but also one of the most complicated ones. If you don’t have any land to begin with, you’ll need to plan on having enough money to buy some to start building a house, but you’ll also need to prepare it, plus there are costs related to mortgage and notary services. Various costs will also be tagged on such as utility hookups or an unexpected rise in the cost of certain materials, which also should be considered.

Furthermore, there are several sources of aid to help you fund your project: construction and savings bonuses, assistance for rational energy use, etc. Luxembourg’s public Guichet service will provide all the information you’ll need in this respect.

Choosing the right land

Of course, the plot of land you choose should be in the perfect location, orientation, status, etc. That said, you’ll need to make sure it has a building permit granted by the City Administration. Also, is the land prepared? Are the water mains and electricity already hooked up or do they need to be factored into the project? Finally, you’ll need to be sure that you’re aware of all the easements attached to it. Your notary, the City Administration, and the local Cadaster service will inform you of this.

Choose your construction method

You have two choices: first, you could choose for customized construction. That way, you’ll be the project manager and you’ll select the artisans and architect that will come up with blueprints to meet your needs and who will determine the project’s cost. On the other hand, you may prefer turnkey construction or to go through a company in charge of doing the construction for you. The price will be set upon signing the contract, and in theory, will not change.

Administrative paperwork

Depending on which construction method you choose, the architect or company may take care of some of the paperwork. However, if you’re taking care of the construction yourself, you’ll need to file for a building permit with the City Administration directly with the burgomaster. Moreover, in order to get certain types of assistance, be sure you take the time to properly fill out all your requests and petitions. Keep every invoice and every estimate. Finally, be sure you have insurance for every step of the building process and demand proof of insurance from every artisan you employ.

Style and equipment

Building essentially comes down to choosing materials and aesthetics, but also the equipment for your future home. These decisions will be largely guided by urban planning and co-ownership rules, or even obligations pertaining to protecting the environment or historical sites. The local urban planning service will be your go-to contact in this field. As for heating and insulation equipment, any financial aid you may be eligible for depends on the choice of certified materials and authorized companies. Once again, the local administration will give you all the conditions you’ll need to meet.

Before finally toasting to your new home, you’ll need to do your interior design, lay floors, getting the painting, kitchen, and bathroom done, and get your move-in organized! These are even more steps you’ll need to take right away once the construction work begins!

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