The things that will be difficult to do later but make life much better (electrical, insulation, lighting, sound, plumbing, outlets- anything in the walls) you would be better off doing through the design center. Some of our neighbors bought, then waited as they tore out everything that was basic and put in their own flooring, paint, window coverings, counters, etc. You have to plan lots of time and money after buying. Rent back is part of what people do to accomplish this. The hassle needs to be considered. Window coverings, crown molding, landscape seem to me easier to do when you occupy a residence. The rest are a pain in the neck if you live in the home.