Before you build
A home is more than lumber, windows, and carpet-- it's selecting the lot, clearing the land, installing the utilities, and on and on throughout the final interior touches. When you build, you want to remember the big picture-- not just the structure itself-- to ensure you are getting everything you want and staying within your budget guidelines.

• Your budget must include the home to be built and everything around it.
  The lot, the drive way, the taxes and many other factors must be considered when determining what you can afford
  
  
• Location, location, location. You've heard it a thousand times, and it's just as important now. Make sure the lot you purchase is perfectly matched to your needs. You'll want to consider factors such as size, shape, and accessibility when making the purchase.
  
  
• Be informed. Gather all the information you can regarding county and /or township zoning laws and building regulations. Check with your future neighbors, they may tip you off on some hidden problems.
  
  
• Arrange for a site evaluation. Ask you Nelson Home specialist about soil assessment, surveying and land development--all the things that make a particular lot good or bad. Your purchase offer should be contingent on an acceptable soil boring and percolation test results. Then discuss how your home plans work within your site.
  
  
• Make an informed value decision. Research the type, style and cost comparisons of the home options available to you. These include: pre-cut, panelized and manufactured homes, and well as the custom-built home. The total cost for these types of homes are surprisingly similar when the factors of labor input, materials and equipment/furnishing are all considered. This is where value of a custom-built Nelson Home really comes into play--you get exactly the home you want, and you don't have to pay expensive design modifications.
  
  
• Develop a plan to meet your family's requirements. This involves preparing a list of the rooms you'll want in your new home, how those rooms will be used and the items that will most likely be found there. Prioritize the list as to what is necessary and what fits our budget.
  
  
• Contact a Nelson Home designer. This professional will serve as your project manager from the initial planning stages through interior decoration of your finished home. Work with them closely, let them know all the goals you have for your home and don't be afraid to ask questions!