We haven’t really discussed much about the equipment yet (still). Actually, only the following items:
- Basement yes/no
- Kitchen open or not (how much does such a drywall partition cost? We can also install it later if the open plan bothers us…)
- Underfloor heating or radiators (radiators 5k cheaper, I still have to read up on whether one or the other differs in energy consumption in the long run?)
- Air conditioning (I can never get warm enough anyway, he liked the idea but didn’t think it was important)
- Blinds (not included for now, I know the pros and cons but not yet)
- Windows colorful or standard white (why would we want colorful windows???)
- Fireplace and corresponding chimney (said no in conversation, already regretted on the way back that we didn’t ask about the costs…)
As you can see, I still need to study a lot. For existing properties, such considerations are unnecessary because you have to take what’s there.
As far as windows are concerned, we haven’t discussed any options yet. The floor plan includes floor-to-ceiling windows (or doors) in the living-dining-kitchen area, which are intended as access to a terrace/garden. The other windows seem small to me, which of course could be beneficial for energy efficiency. I will study the floor plan again carefully this evening. The drawn kitchen area seemed too small for our purposes, but the open floor plan allows, for example, to add a central island. If we want that, though, we have to think about connections.
Otherwise, I can imagine that additional costs will arise during the final selection (Bemusterung). The included equipment is definitely rather inexpensive, and I don’t necessarily want red tiles in the bathroom just because they were on offer.
A slightly larger bathtub is already included; the standard size is apparently not suitable for bathing for tall men (as long as the rest of the bathroom fittings have space, these are also manageable costs, I don’t care, I have the "standard size" — so I rely on my friend’s statement).
I find the comment about the garden accurate. Why should I care what color the wood of the stairs is? The main thing is that it’s cozy inside when I come in from outside. But certain things we do have to consider, for example, we need separate workspaces, preferably individual rooms. That’s why I understand that he wants a basement if at all possible (at worst a hobby garage or something similar). You don’t want the mess from crafting and the smells from soldering, from greases, etc., inside the living area.