How to Buy Home Building Plans

1. Determine the size of your new home. Deciding upon the size of your new home may rely on a few different factors. Cost may be a determining factor for some, while lot size is a limiter for others. If cost is an issue, you can view the National Association of Home Builders website at www.nahb.org in order to utilize their construction estimation calculators which enable users to estimate cost per foot of a particular type of home.

2. Make a shopping list. It is crucial to review the features that you require in your new home. Requirements might include accessibility, wheelchair accommodations or reduced cabinet heights. They might also include a swimming pool, large sunny deck or extra bathrooms for your guests. Compose this list before reviewing home plans. Think big, you can always eliminate this list later. It is easier to remove items than to include them after the plans are purchased.

3. How will you live? It may seem a little odd to ask yourself that question; however it is important to consider your lifestyle when determining the home plans that meet your needs. A family with children may want at least one room separate from the formal living room in which the kids can play or watch television. A homeowner with elderly parents may need to provide living space for those parents in the future, and so a bedroom or guest suite on the first floor may be something to consider in the search for the perfect home plans.

4. Look at the lot! The size, landscape and terrain of the lot on which you will build your home all factor into the decision of what plans will work for your needs. If you are functioning in reverse on this one, you will need to select the lot based upon the requirements of the house. There are advantages to both methods, but you should try to make sure that house and lot are good complements to one another.

5. Budget. On average nationally, a set of home plans will cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $500 - $1500. Some will cost more, depending on the designer. Some will cost less – if they are able to be mass produced and are popular sellers. Consider in budgeting the cost of home plans whether you are allowed to duplicate the plans for your contractors. You may also need a copy for the building inspector or zoning review board. If the company from which you purchase your home provides non-reproducible plans in singular, you may need to purchase up to ten additional sets of plans. Be sure to ask this question while reviewing possible plans for your dream home.

These recommended topics to follow in the selection of the perfect home design plans are of considerable importance. Choose your home plans carefully, as they will be the foundation on which your future will eventually be built.

This home building article by:
Michelle McClory with BuildingPlans.com

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