Which New Construction Upgrades Are Worth It in Las Vegas? (2025 Guide)

Upgrade Decision Framework

Must-Get Structural Upgrades

These upgrades cannot be added after construction or would cost significantly more to retrofit. Get them from the builder or you will never have them.

Extended or Third-Car Garage

Builder cost: $8,000-$25,000 | Post-construction cost: $30,000-$60,000+

In Las Vegas, garage space is critical. No basements mean the garage stores everything. Extended depth (for workbench or storage) or third-car tandem garage dramatically increases livability and resale value. You cannot economically add this later.

Additional Electrical Outlets and Circuits

Builder cost: $50-$200 per outlet | Post-construction cost: $200-$500+ per outlet

Adding outlets after drywall means cutting walls, running wire, patching, and painting. Get outlets where you need them during construction: home office, kitchen island, garage, outdoor areas. Also consider 240V outlets for EV charging and future hot tub.

Ceiling Height Upgrades

Builder cost: $2,000-$8,000 | Post-construction: Not possible

If the builder offers 9-foot or 10-foot ceilings versus standard 8-foot, this dramatically improves how the home feels. You cannot raise ceilings after construction. Highly recommended if available and within budget.

Lot Premium / Location Upgrade

Builder cost: $5,000-$50,000+ | Post-construction: Not possible

Corner lots, cul-de-sac, larger lots, or premium views cost extra. This is a one-time decision that affects your daily experience and resale value forever. Worth considering carefully based on your priorities.

Pre-Wire and Pre-Plumb Options

Builder cost: $200-$1,500 | Post-construction: $1,000-$5,000+

Pre-wire for ceiling fans, surround sound, security system, and networking while walls are open. Pre-plumb for water softener, refrigerator ice maker, and outdoor sink/kitchen. Incredibly cheap during construction, expensive after.

Consider These Builder Upgrades

These upgrades can be done later but may be more convenient or comparably priced from the builder.

Upgraded Flooring

Builder cost: $5,000-$15,000+ | DIY/contractor: $3,000-$10,000

Builder flooring is typically overpriced by 50-100%. However, moving furniture twice (in, then out for flooring, then back in) is a significant hassle. If you can negotiate flooring into an incentive package, it may be worth it. Otherwise, consider doing it yourself after closing with better materials at lower cost.

Quartz or Granite Countertops

Builder cost: $3,000-$8,000 | Contractor: $2,000-$5,000

Builder grade countertops (basic laminate or low-end granite) disappoint most buyers. Upgrading to quality quartz or granite makes a huge visual difference. Builder pricing is high but avoids the hassle of demo and installation after move-in. Price shop before deciding.

Covered Patio

Builder cost: $5,000-$15,000 | Contractor: $8,000-$20,000

In Las Vegas, covered outdoor space is essential for 8+ months of the year. Builder pricing is often competitive with post-construction aluminum covers. However, custom pergolas or solid patio covers may be better done after closing with specialty contractors.

Kitchen Appliance Package

Builder cost: $2,000-$8,000 upgrade | Retail: Varies widely

Base appliances are typically basic. Stainless steel and upgraded brands add value and function. Compare builder pricing to retail appliance stores—sometimes builder packages are competitive, sometimes significantly overpriced. Watch for holiday sales on appliances as an alternative.

Skip These Builder Upgrades

These upgrades typically cost 2-4x at the design center compared to buying yourself or hiring contractors after closing.

Light Fixtures

Builder cost: $200-$1,000 per fixture | Retail/DIY: $50-$300 per fixture

Builder light fixtures are marked up 300-400%. Buy fixtures from Home Depot, Wayfair, or specialty lighting stores and install yourself or hire an electrician for $50-$75 per fixture. Significant savings on identical or better quality.

Cabinet Hardware

Builder cost: $500-$1,500 | DIY: $100-$400

Knobs and pulls are incredibly easy to install yourself. Builder pricing is extreme. Buy from Amazon, Home Depot, or specialty hardware sites and spend an hour installing.

Interior Paint Colors

Builder cost: $2,000-$5,000 for accent walls | DIY: $200-$500 in paint

Builders charge premium for anything beyond standard colors. Painting is straightforward DIY or hire painters after closing for a fraction of builder cost. Plus, you can take your time deciding on colors once you see the space.

Window Blinds and Treatments

Builder cost: $3,000-$8,000 | DIY/retail: $500-$2,000

Builder blinds are typically basic and overpriced. Buy from Costco, Home Depot, or specialty blind companies for significantly less. Custom shutters are worth quoting from specialty installers rather than builder.

Backsplash

Builder cost: $1,500-$4,000 | Contractor: $500-$1,500

Backsplash is purely cosmetic and easily installed after closing. Builder pricing is typically 2-3x contractor rates. Wait and choose exactly what you want with a wider selection of materials.

Las Vegas-Specific Upgrade Considerations

• Water softener loop: Las Vegas has very hard water. Pre-plumb during construction—essential upgrade.
• Enhanced insulation: With $300-$400 summer electric bills, upgraded insulation pays back quickly.
• Radiant barrier: Reflects heat from attic—valuable in desert climate.
• Solar pre-wire: If considering solar future, pre-wire is cheap during construction.
• Pool pre-plumb: If you might add a pool later, pre-plumb electrical and gas saves thousands.
• Tankless water heater: Gas tankless provides endless hot water and saves space.

The Bottom Line

Focus your upgrade budget on structural items that cannot be changed later: garage extensions, electrical, ceiling heights, and lot selection. Be selective on cosmetic upgrades—many cost 2-4x what you would pay doing them after closing. The model home is designed to sell you upgrades. Have a clear budget and prioritize before entering the design center.

I help buyers prioritize upgrades and avoid overspending at the design center. If you want guidance on which upgrades provide the best value for specific builders or communities, reach out before your design appointment.