For Greyhead and anyone else who has recently built a house

[UNC71-00]

just came to terms to purchase 9 acres and we are going to build our house there.

My first question: other than scouring the internet for house plans, how else would one go about figuring out what to build? We have some run of the mill things that we have to have, but a lot of stuff is wide open. How hard is it to modify plans found on the interwebz?

Im pretty sure we have our GC, but my question here is: how responsive should I expect him to be when I call? If he doesnt answer, what is a reasonable time to allow for a call back?

And as far as GCs go, if I dont end up using this guy, what should I look for when selecting one? Price is a concern to a degree, but i dont mind paying more money for better value.

Anything else I should bear in mind?

 

[Grayhead]

Find a set of plans that is close to what you want. Some of the plan vendors allows for modifications to their plans. If you find a style that is similar, you can also take that to an architect or designer and have the plans drawn. That will be the best route. Most contractors should be able to point you to someone who can draw the plans for you. I had someone who would draw the plans for $1.50 per sq foot. Basically design plans.
You should have a wish list of items you need to have. Things such as flooring, cabinets, trim styles, ect...

If you are using a contractor who owns a large company, then you will most likely deal with the superintendents rather than the actual contractor. If the GC is a smaller operation, then yes he should answer the phone. I have alwaysade it a point to answer my phone. You should develop a good relationship with him. If he doesn't answer the phone now, it should raise flags. He should be working to sell you his services. Get multiple prices. Not to look for lowest price, but to get the best bang for your buck. A smaller contractor will often help you more. If they build 100 homes a year, you become just another number to them. I'll add more later