Finding the Perfect Virtual House Plan

October 24, 2008

Once you have finalized your program and determined your budget, floor plan and exterior style preferences, lot restrictions and all the other items we have covered so far, now it is time to obtain your plans. 3D rendered house plans offer the added benefit of being able to visualize what the house will look like.

There are many sources you can use to obtain 3D house plans. These are the most common:

Stock Plans: Most stock plans are custom homes that were designed for private clients or plans specifically designed for the general public. Since these plans have been refined over time, you benefit from experience and a low plan cost. Stock plans are an excellent way to save thousands of dollars on home plans and because of the savings, affords a lot more people the opportunity to build their dream home. It is also the easiest method to obtain the dream home of your choice.

You may not find a plan that meets your requirements 100% but be aware that making changes in stock plans is very common and reasons can include changes to suit personal tastes, revisions to fit on your lot or to accommodate local ordinances and building codes. Whatever your reason, many stock plan providers offer modification and customization options as part of their service or will direct you to the appropriate method to achieve your changes.

Virtual house plans give you much more detail than static images and renderings, so you can visualize your favorite home plan from all four orientations. 3D feature will allow you to change exterior surfaces, windows and doors, roofing and much more so you can customize and envision your dream home before its built. Truly step inside your dream home and explore your design room by room.

Also many designers offer study plans or review sets, which are mini scaled plans for study and preliminary budgeting; they are not intended for construction and detailed budgeting, but could be helpful if you are uncertain about a particular plan. Thousands of stock plans in every size and style are available.

Residential Architects and Designers: Local architects and residential design specialists provide skill and knowledge of local styles, ordinances and building requirements. Look for a certified architect who carries AIA (American Institute of Architects) credentials, or a residential designer who is certified and belongs to a professional organization, such as the AIBD. Make sure your architect or designer has a thorough understanding of your budget and is familiar with the lot you have purchased. Expect costs for services to be between 2% -15% of the cost of the home, depending on the services provided.

Computer Plan Software: Computer software programs provide amateur designers the opportunity to design homes. These programs can be powerful and easy to use, but they do not warn you of design or structural violations. If you would like to play with these programs and design your own home, it is strongly recommended that you have both the design reviewed and construction drawings prepared by a professional.

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