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ASSEMBLING YOUR TEAM
The responsibilities of the professionals on your design team may vary. However, the items you need to consider
typically include the following categories:
Financing
Whether you'll be paying cash or working with a lender, determining your budget at the onset is wise. Consider the tax implications of your purchase.
Compare loan programs from two or more sources. If you own the lot, you may arrange for construction and mortgage financing. Many lenders offer an
express or one-time close package that combines the two. this reduces paperwork, closing fees, and time.
Builder
Ultimately your home plans are transformed into reality by your builder. He or she assists with your plans and specifications, establishes a budget,
selects trade contractors and material suppliers, schedules the work, and oversees each step of construction. After move-in, the builder will provide
a limited warranty covering materials and workmanship, typically for one year.
Architect
Depending on the terms of your contract or the relationship between the builder and home designer, the architect may remain involved throughout
construction or may simply develop the plans then serve as a consultant if questions arise. The terms of your written agreements with the architect
and the builder should cover this point.
Plan Service
Plan services offer you another source of home plans. they publish catalogs of house plans that you can study and compare. For a fee, most plan
services will make custom changes to their plans and some offer prepackaged variations. Look for a plan service that offers:
- Plans drawn or reviewed by an architect or structural engineer
- Specifications that meet the standards of a recognized national building code.
- A procedure for custom changes or permission to make changes.
- Technical support for answers to construction questions.
- Alternate foundation designs.
- The option of purchasing a master from which copies can be made for trade contractors.
- A copyright release.
Plan Ownership
The question of plan ownership should be answered in your contract. Some designers will not authorize anyone else to build from their
plans. Others accept a fee for permission. Be sure you own or have the right to use the plans you build from! |
Interior Designer
You can rely on this professional to coordinate design details, finishes, and color selections for your home's interior. The same designer can assist
you in selecting window coverings and furnishings, so this relationship can continue long after move-in.
Landscape Architect
Decisions about placement of your home on the lot, preservation of trees, and configuration of the drive and walks affect your landscape plan and its
cost. If you're building in a covenant-protected community, make certain that your landscape designer is familiar with the association's requirements
and approval process.
Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent familiar with available land and new construction in the area can guide you through much of this process. Be certain the
professional you select specializes in custom building and knows the custom builders and related professionals in the area.
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