Buying an existing house seems like the best idea because you can see the quality and any flaws in workmanship. However, there is no reward quite the same as drawing out the plans yourself to have that dream home you want. Before you get started, make a huge list of everything. Use your computer to quickly Cut & Paste items as needed to keep them in proper order. Be sure to read the following 10 tips.

Prepare before contacting a builder

If you want a reasonably close estimate of the completed building, do not be in a hurry to contact a builder. The first thing you need is a drawing of the structure. You can find free OpenSource software for drafting on the Internet, just in case you worry about your artistic abilities.

Decide what you want by considering the scope of the project

If building a large commercial project, the contractor has teams of workers who work around the clock and speed is of the essence. Home building is smaller scale and less hectic.

Do you need a specialist or just a general contractor?

There are specialists in basements, garages, staircases, etc. A good general builder who knows what you want can coordinate these teams and build what the blueprint shows.

Establish one person for responsibility

Chaos rules when no one is officially in charge. In most companies, the contractor is held responsible for the completed job so let him or her hold that position.

Let the builder handle managing the project, but listen when you can

Remember that most of the workers have probably worked for this contractor on other jobs and they work well together. Let the builder do the project managing.

Be specific in what you want

If you want a particular type of marble, provide a small sample, or better yet, deal directly with the supplier. Contractors often agree to let you get such things as fixtures, and it usually saves you about 10% off the items.

Give serious consideration to bidding

With blueprints, samples, and statistics in hand, shop around. Attempt to get at least three bids on the total job.

Thoroughly understand what the importance is of a building contract

Always read the fine print. Building contracts should have a copy of the blueprints and schedules attached and states the “what ifs” such as changes in the way or the job takes longer than stipulated.

Establish who does the rough-in work, and who does the finish work

A framing crew typically puts up the wooden walls and flooring. Other teams handle plaster, Sheetrock, and other wall coverings. Each facet of the job has a crew, so make sure which one is to do which jobs.

Always have a comprehensive inspection list or hire an inspector for 203K loans

If building a home and planning to finance through FHA, licensed inspectors are a must and follow the job from digging the foundation to putting on the roofing.

Try not to dwell on stories about terrible contractors who ripped off a lovely family building a home. These days, those situations are rare, and when they do happen it is due to lack of planning and failure to provide blueprints and precise instructions. While interviewing contractors, please include Alair Homes as one of your choices.