Log Homes for Beginners - 10 Steps to Success

For those who may be thinking of building a new log home and enjoying the lifestyle that comes with it, there are a number of steps you should take to make the process smoother.

1. Decide on a home style by reading log home magazines and visiting log home shows in your area. Attend log home company seminars. Do you want a single-story, one-and-a-half story, or two story house? Do you prefer a traditional cabin style, or a more contemporary look? Do you like round logs or square logs?

2. Decide on a rough floor plan. Based on the plan, determine how many square feet of living space you'll need. Find standard floor plans at log home shows and on log home company web sites. Standard plans can be customized if needed.

3. Narrow down your choices of log home companies you think you would want to work with. Contact their representative in your area and discuss your plans. Visit model homes build by each company.

4. Based on the plan you choose and the number of square feet of living space, determine the rough turn-key cost of building your home. Remember, the cost of a log home "kit" is only part of the overall cost of your home. Cost estimator calculators are available on some log home company web sites, and on the Log Home Advisor web site.

5. Based on the estimated cost to build your home, determine if the cost is within your budget and your ability to be approved for a mortgage. If not, go back to Step 2 and make changes to reduce cost.

6. If you're OK on the financing, locate and secure property. Make sure that there are no problems with road access, zoning, building restrictions, utilities, or services.

7. Arrange your financing with a bank or finance company that understands log homes. Many banks don't offer log home mortgages.

8. Get a contractor/builder who has log home experience, preferably experience with your particular log home company's building methods. Sign your log package contract with your chosen log home company, and arrange for delivery.

9. Monitor the construction process closely to make sure everything is going smoothly and correctly.

10. Move in and live your dream.

Al Hearn is owner and operator of Log Home Advisor, a web site dedicated to the needs of log home enthusiasts.

---

What You Should Know About Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring imitates the aspect of traditional wood. Their biggest... Read More

Guide to Bathroom Design

The first step is to plan the design ? as... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Trees and How They Can Affect Development when Applying for Planning

Like most folk, I believe that more can be achieved... Read More

How to Modify Your Landscaping to Protect Your House from Burglars

Believe it or not, landscaping can be an important part... Read More

Would You Steel Your Household Appliances

Would you steel your appliances? That is a question many... Read More

How To Clean Your Air Conditioner Like A Pro

Jack Frost is nipping at our nose and Santa Clause... Read More

Here Comes The Sun: Solar Energy is Becoming More Attractive for Mainstream Consumers

The price of a barrel of oil has never been... Read More

Your Candles Are Killing You and Your Furniture - Substitute It!

Even though most of the houses are well lighted with... Read More

The Dangers of Pesticides and the EPAs Harrowing Plan to Test Them on Kids

Pesticides are a ubiquitous toxin in our environment. We spray... Read More

Color Help: Color Theory and Design Psychology

Color theory is an entire science unto itself, and to... Read More

A Guide to Home Dehumidifiers

It can be difficult to choose from among the countless... Read More

Your Building Your Dream Home, But Where Do You Start?

You have finally found the perfect lot, in the neighborhood... Read More

Garage Doors

You may think choosing garage doors is straight forward, however... Read More

How to Select Exterior Shutters

Installing exterior shutters is a relatively quick way to add... Read More

Choosing a Vinyl Replacement Window Contractor

Whenever I write an article, it's usually tailored to the... Read More

The Ten Most Important Feng Shui Design Tips

If you wish to learn how to manage interior design... Read More

Beat the Summer Heat - What Size A/C Do I Need?

A larger air conditioner will not always provide more cooling.... Read More

Planning Permission and Building Regulations for Conservatories in the UK

Do I need planning permission for a conservatory?Do I need... Read More

The Benefits of Radiant Heat, Comparison

What are the Benefits of Radiant Heating and how do... Read More

Make Your Home Secure

The following list offers some inexpensive ways to make your... Read More

Buy Area Rugs on the Web? What a Site!

After spending hundreds of dollars on your favorite Picasso print,... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - What To Show And What Not To Show On Your application Drawings

Many successful business deals are the result of being a... Read More

New-age Paint Thickening & Rheological Additives : Solvitex & Solvizen

For Paint Manufacturers worldwide, there has come a radical new... Read More

6 Saving Tips When Moving

Moving households, whether it is due to a job transfer... Read More

Create a Joyful Home with Living Accessories: Houseplants

Houseplants can be soothing because of their visual impact. Besides... Read More