Practical guidance for planning your home from the ground up
This clear, field‑tested guide explains how to choose the right architect and builder, set up contracts, and plan a site that saves time and money. It emphasizes integrity, expertise, and practical decision making to help you build with confidence.
The book walks you through the big decisions before you lift a shovel. Learn how to set a realistic budget, decide on a house type, and work with professionals who can translate ideas into a solid plan. It also covers how different contracts work, and how to guard against common delays, cost overruns, and disputes. You’ll find practical tips on evaluating land, water supply, drainage, and foundation issues, all framed to prevent surprises during construction. The guidance stays grounded in real-world concerns, from site selection to the final finish.
- Understand how lump-sum and percentage contracts work, and what they mean for cost and control
- Learn how to choose an architect and builder based on talent, integrity, and fit
- Get practical steps for site placement, water and drainage, and foundation planning
- Discover common pitfalls and guardrails to keep a project on track
Ideal for prospective homeowners and builders alike, this edition helps you approach building with a clear plan, informed questions, and trustworthy partners.