re: Building a house soon, just looking for advice/tips

1. Look up an architect in Arkansas named Doug Rye. I was listening to him on talk radio before I built 20 years ago and he mentioned a tape or cd on how to build an energy efficient house. I bought it and used about 60-70% of his suggestions. It cut my energy bill in half while doubling by sq. ft.

2. Sit down with the permit officials and make sure you understand the process and cost including inspections. Check with all utility companies about issues and cost on supplying you service. As an example you may prefer to cook with gas over electric. NG may not be available in your area but propane can be with a tank. Check flood requirements and when designing go at least 1' if not 2' above the requirement. The higher you go above base food elevation the cheaper you flood insurance will be. Check with your insurance agent on this $2,000 extra cost in dirt now may save you $500 per year in premiums.

3. Visit open houses and home and garden shows to get an understanding of what you like about counter tops, cabinets, floors, crown molding, plumbing fixtures, wall colors, lighting fixtures, appliances, bricks etc. Have most of that picked out prior to beginning construction. For lighting, plumbing fixtures and appliances I preferred dealing with a business that specializes in just those items rather than a big box store. In my area they all have consultants ready to help you at no charge once you have house plans drawn up. In addition the consultants may offer suggestions on minor modifications to your plans to make things better. You don't know how may times it crossed my mind "I never thought of that" while talking to a consultant.

4.Make sure you allow for electrical, water or gas expansion for any future needs such as out buildings, outdoor kitchen or whole house generator.

5. We bought several books titled 101 house plans. Bought the plans to about 4-5 houses in them. We combined what we liked about each of them into our custom house. I did the first draft and then let a house draftsman take over.