The Complete Idiot's Guide to Building Your Own Home

With even more instructions and illustrations, this revised and updated edition offers clear and concise guidance on every step of home building, from figuring a budget to finding labor and materials to all aspects of construction. This book answers every question readers have about building their own residence and a few questions they may not have considered.

Contains a visual dictionary of new construction terms and home components
Fully illustrated with step-by-step, easy-to-follow instructions
Sample bid forms, general contractor agreements, and legal advice on building codes and permits
Includes information on working with architects and drawing up your own plans

Dan Ramsey is the author of more than 20 books for home builders and buyers, including builder's construction guides, contractor business guides, kit home construction, and homeowner remodeling and repair books. Dan also wrote two editions of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care (Alpha Books). Many of his books are available on the Internet at MulliganPress. Additional resources on building your home are available at MulliganPress/byoh/.

Dan has extensive remodeling experience and has also worked as a successful real estate agent. He recently supervised the design, siting, construction, and move-in of his parents' new home in northern California.