Use some great home design software to help you visualize your desires for your home construction or additions. You can even "see" what your design would look like with some of the 3D home design software. Not intended to replace the expertise and services of architects, these house plan software programs can help you decide what you really want.
House plans and quality construction blueprints by architects will save you money and heartache in the long run. Gather photos and ideas and organize them to show and help your architect design exactly what you desire at less cost through clear communication and less time expended.
Excellent house plans are published in books, CD's and online. Check these sources to find your perfect home plans and blueprints.
Good communication with your contractor is vital. Keep a written record of any verbal exchanges. Communicate effectively with your contractors to maintain a good working relationship, and keep a paper trail of records to assist resolution should any problems arise.
Your new home construction can be the dream you imagined if you plan ahead. Avoid these construction problems for starters for years of contentment.
Construction requires you to get organized in advance to avoid costly changes and assure that your chosen amenities are the ones actually delivered. Keep your multiple decisions organized in a three ring binder with sections for each room that store all details for that room so that contractors and you can check back. Getting organized will eliminate very costly change orders as long as you stick to your decisions. Make changes during building and be prepared to pay the price!
Contractors should be asked for an itemized bid. Obtain an affidavit from each party at time of payment. Do not pay for unfinished work. Compare bills with work performed by the contractor to assure they match. You will avoid many headaches with your construction bids if you follow these simple procedures.
An affidavit and materialman's certificate are important to avoid a mechanic's lien against your property from contractors or subcontractors. A professional contractor will not hesitate to provide these forms.
Affidavits and liens protect homeowner and contractor. Consult a good real estate attorney concerning laws in your state before a problem ensues.
Obtaining a bid stresses homeowners. Arm yourself with information by reading about the work you want to do, draw a plan outlining your needs as precisely as you can, or develop a good description of your desired job to give to all contractors. This will obtain bids on the same work so that you can make comparisons.
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