by James Richardson

Created on: May 24, 2010   Last Updated: May 26, 2010

In order to reduce costs in any new home construction project, begin with the print you desire, and work from there to decide how to proceed.  By following the few simple steps below, you should be able to get to end of the project by simply keeping yourself informed each step of the way.

Choose Prints:  Many consumers begin by looking at floor plans in books and magazines.  There are also some excellent websites like

HousePlans.com  and e that offer more interactive resources.  More than likely, you will not find a plan that fits your needs just right. Redline (mark-up) a set of prints showing all you want taken away as well as all that you want incorporated into the drawings.  Although the tendency is to add, this is also a great place to think of cost cutting measures.   Finish basement later, add wine cellar later?  Can you reduce the overall footprint print of the house without compromising bedroom sizes?

Architect:  Many cities and municipalities require a raised stamped copy of the architect.  If you have made a lot of redlines, it may be beneficial to seek a local building architect.  If you would rather not go that route, most online companies, can make the all changes, and then have them stamped and shipped back.

Land:   Now that you know the dimensions of the house as well as the exterior elevations, it is time to find an appropriate piece of land.  Many people like to try and find a lot in an existing subdivision.  Be careful, lots not used by the developer could mean that it is a troubled lot (flood pain, erosion problems? non-compacted fill dirt?).  Make sure you do your homework.  Still, others like to move away from developments and onto larger parcels of land.  Home place layout is not nearly as crucial as long as there is enough land for the well and the septic system, assuming they are not in place as of yet.

On Your Own or With A General Contractor:  For those who never built before, the process may look easy.  These looks, however, can be very deceiving.  There is a lot that goes into building a house, both at the site and behind the scenes.  In most instances, the builder has negotiated prices under advertised price.   Unless you have experience the time, I strongly encourage you hire a contractor.  You can utilize your local BBB to see if the company you are interested in has any problems.  Go and look at their “resume” of work.  Are the yards clean?  Unused materials stacked nice on the garage?   What you see on the outside is usually a good indicator as to what you will get on the inside.  If you don’t feel comfortable, check out more builders.  You will be building, albeit temporary, a relationship that is going to last for several months.  You need to feel good about the builder that you choose.  Remember, they are the ones that are going to building your dream home!

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