How to Manage the Construction of Your Own House?

Once you have your lot, the next step is to manage your construction team and direct them towards your goals. This can be a very inexpensive task. At one end, there are the ready-made plans which are available through the mail from building magazines (just check your newsstands). At the other end of the spectrum you can hire an expert architect to draw up a set of plans just for you. This is not only economical but also a great way to prove your management skills. visit http://www.solvemyproblemm.com/faq

Dos

·         Be careful if you buy through-the-mail plans.  A ‘working set’ includes all elevations as well as details of all unusual construction. They definitely give you enough to see what the house will look like, but they’re a far cry from being detailed enough for you or a builder to work with.

·         Visit the building site and design the plans to fit the contour of the land. In addition, make sure your hired architect listens carefully to your desires for a home and incorporates those features that you want.

·         Get to know your local building inspectors and ask for advice. They may save you hours of time and thousands of dollars by suggesting  approved  methods  of   building  that  you  may  not  have thought of yourself.

Don’ts

·         Don’t underestimate the architect’s track record. Interview him as you would any other person you are hiring.  Ask to see plans that the architect has previously done. Find out whom he has designed houses for and then call up those owners.

·         Find out first what the costs will be. Some architects work on an hourly basis; others have a set fee. Don’t assume that the costs will be minimal. Plans can be very expensive.

·         Be aware of building codes and of building materials costs in your area and design a house to take advantage of whatever cost savings are possible.

Why Do It Yourself?

In most areas of the country if you agree to live on the property for at least a year, you are permitted not only to do all or most of the construction yourself but also to draw up the plans. No, this is not an impossible task. A lot of enthusiastic homeowners have done so themselves with no background in architecture or drafting. Work with your local building department as a solution seeker, not against it. Find out in advance what special requirements it has (snow load, wind resistance, insulation, sewer systems, and so on).  Incorporate these features into your plans at an early stage.