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According to bankrate, the 10 features listed below add a lot of value to your home. Based on my recent purchase of a new construction single-family home, I have added my comments for each of these features.
1. An updated kitchen
When we visited the model home, we really liked the granite counter tops, new appliances (that got me excited too!), lot of cabinets for storage, and an island in the center of the kitchen. The island is can be used for more counter top space as well as a small eat-in area. For my wife, this was the biggest selling point of the home.
2. Modern bathrooms
This is an important one. The master bathroom must have double vanities. That means, you and your partner each have their own space with a sink to get ready. Modern bathrooms also have a separate jetted bath tub and shower area. Modern light fixtures are a plus.
3. A well-appointed master suite
For me, the master suite was the selling point. A master suite must, at least, have enough space for a king size bed, dresser and 2 night stands. Separate space for a sitting area, tray ceiling, crown molding at to the value.
4. Natural materials
In floor coverings, especially bathrooms or kitchens, look for ceramic tile or wood rather than linoleum. If you have carpet, it should be a good product and well-maintained.
5. Curb appeal
Again very important. When you come home from work, your home's appearance should be a welcome sight. Nicely trimmed lawn area and uncluttered driveway go a long way in achieving good appeal.
6. A light, airy spacious feel
There should be enough light and cross air ventilation coming into the house. Being of Indian origin, we always consider a home where the front door faces the southwest direction.
7. Good windows
The house should have a lot windows. All windows must be properly insulated. Personally I prefer to have blinds on all the windows. Well-placed skylights are also a good touch to add value. Unfortunately, I don't have any in my house.
8. Landscaping
Always have a well manicured lawn. A few plants wont hurt either. We are planning to have our back yard fenced for added privacy. I wouldn't mind having a swing, but that means less play area for my daughter.
9. Lots of storage
You couldn't go wrong with an over sized garage, some attic space and plenty of closets. We have a good sized 2 car garage, but we currently just have one car. So more storage space for us.
10. Basement
Having a finished basement adds even more value. Basements add a lot to your resale value. Unfortunately, we don't have a basement.

Architectural styles denote the classification of architecture in terms of form, techniques and materials in an integration of architecture designs from over lapping periods of time. There have evolved various and diverse types of architectural styles over the years; listed blow are some of the more popular ones.
Art DecoThe Art Deco style was an echo of the Machine Age and became popular in the 1920s. It was stylized by geometric decorative elements and a vertically oriented design. Towers and other projections above the roofline enhance the vertical emphasis of this style while flat roofs, metal window casements, and smooth stucco walls with rectangular cut-outs are symbolic of the Art Deco exterior. Facades are marked with zigzags and other stylized floral, geometric and sunrise motifs. A distinctly urban style, Art Deco in American architecture was used widely and popularly for commercial buildings during this period.
ColonialMore than simply the design elements, Colonial architecture refers to the time period in American architecture, between the early 1600s, when the first colonists began to build settlements and 1776, the year the colonies declared their independence from England. Economical, refined and basic, the colonial designs reflect the buildings practices of America’s early settlers. Although Colonial architecture is often thought of as stately and symmetrical with an orderly arrangement of windows, it actually comes in several sizes, shapes and styles reflecting the diverse cultural traditions of the English, Dutch, Spanish and French.
ContemporaryContemporary-style homes became hugely popular between 1950 and 1970. There were two types of contemporary American architecture – the flat-roof type and the gabled roof type. These were characterized by odd-sized and often tall windows, lack of ornamentation, and unique mixtures of wall materials like stone, brick, and wood. Both types of designs were one-story tall and designed to incorporate the surrounding architectural landscape into their overall look.
GeorgianFanciful and royal, the Georgian architecture was styled in honor of the first three monarchs of England, all of whom were named George. Formal and majestic Georgian homes are known for their refined and symmetrical design with paired chimneys and a decorative crown over the front door. Another unique feature is the orderly row of five windows across the second story. With sport side-gabled roofs, Georgian houses are two to three stories high, and constructed in brick. Besides symmetry, this kind of architecture is symbolized by rich classical detail such as large Greek or Roman style columns, elaborate entryways with beautifully arched windows resting atop them and elegant ornamentation.
Gothic RevivalGothic Revival became popular in the mid 1800s. This style was largely influenced by English romanticism and intricate wooden millwork. It was characterized by Gothic windows with distinctive pointed arches and featured exposed framing timbers and steep vaulted roofs with cross-gables. They also included extravagant features such as towers and verandas.
InternationalEuropean architects initiated the modern style of architecture in the 20th century. Using materials such as concrete, glass and steel, it was devoid of ornamentation or decoration. The architectural landscape in the international style introduced the idea of exposed functional building elements such as elevator shafts, ground-to-ceiling plate glass windows, and smooth facades.
Prarie HouseThe first Prairie-style house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in Chicago in 1893. This American architectural style peaked between the years 1900s and 1920s and focused on modest homes that blended the natural beauty of the Midwestern landscape. It consists of two main styles - boxy and symmetrical or low-slung and asymmetrical and the materials used are brick and clapboard. It has low pitched gable roofs with eaves extending well beyond the walls, creating an effect that allows it to blend with the scenery. Other details included pronounced overhangs, stone belts to accentuate the horizontal designs, rows of casement windows, one-story porches with massive square supports as well as stylized floral and circular geometric terra-cotta or masonry decorations around doors, windows, and cornices.
Shingle VictorianThis American architectural style was used widely in cottages along the trendy, wealthy North-eastern coastal towns of Long Island and Newport in the late 19th century. Wide porches, unadorned doors, windows, and cornices, steeply pitched roof lines are symbolic of this style. Continuous wood shingles cover the entire surface of the home, giving it a cohesive look. Some unique features in this style include dormers, recessed balconies, and side towers with bell or conical roofs structured under the shingles.
TudorThis architecture was initiated in the 1920s and 1930s, but continues to remain a popular architectural style in suburbs across the United States even today. It is characterised by half-timbering on bay windows and upper floors with facades that are pronounced by one or more steeply pitched cross gables. Patterned brick or stone walls, rounded doorways, multi-paned casement windows, and large stone chimneys are also some of the features of this architectural style.
VictorianVictorian architecture in America originated in the second half of the 19th century, when America was identifying new approaches to building and design. Victorian styles include Second Empire, Italianate, Stick, and Queen Anne among others. Advances in modern technology ensured the incorporation of ornamentation such as brackets, spindles, and patterned shingles into the Victorian designs.

Architects have been and will remain at the forefront of designing the built environment that surrounds us. As professional experts in the field of building, design and construction, architects use their creativity to simplify the complex process of designing and build socially and economically sustainable cities and communities. Following are some world famous architects known for their unique creative skills, vision and contributions.
Frank Lloyd WrightFrank Lloyd Wright is one of America’s most famous architects. Although he had no formal education in architecture, he believed that his work as a farm hand in Wisconsin made him very perceptive and helped develop his spatial abilities. After studying engineering at the University of Wisconsin for a few semesters at the age of 15, he left to apprentice with J.L. Silsbee and Louis Sullivan. After working with them for six years, Wright opened his own practice. During his 70-year career, Wright designed 1,141 buildings, including homes, offices, churches, schools, libraries, bridges and museums. One of his most important contributions was the Prairie House style of architecture. He experimented with obtuse angles and circles, creating unusually shaped structures, an example of which is the spiral Guggenheim Museum (1943-49). He also developed a series of low-cost homes which he called Usonian. Although he earned recognition in the early 1900s as one of the popular modern architects he became the recipient of the American Institute of Architects only in 1949.
Some of his more famous projects were:
Frederick C. Robie House 1909 Unity Temple 1906 Fallingwater 1936 Johnson Wax Administration Building 1936
I.M. PeiI. M. Pei one of the most famous modern architects was born in Canton, China in 1917. Pei grew up in Shanghai, but in 1935 he moved to the United States to study architecture and engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and later at Harvard University. He became the Director of Architecture at the real estate development firm, Webb & Knapp in 1948 and then founded his own firm in 1958.
Over the past fifty years, Ieoh Ming Pei has designed more than fifty buildings across the globe including industrial skyscrapers, museums and low income housing. Concerened more with function than theory, the defining feature of I. M. Pei’s style is the use of large, abstract forms and sharp, geometric designs. His glass clad structures are born from high tech modernist movement.
During his career, Pei and his firm have won numerous architecture awards. He won the prestigious Pritzker Prize in 1983.
Some of his more noteworthy buildings are:
The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University Bank of China Tower John Hancock Tower Louvre Pyramid National Gallery
Le CorbusierLe Corbusier, born in the late 19th century, was a pioneer of modern architecture. He founded what is popularly known as the International style or the Bauhaus. The essence of modern architecture as advocated by him was described in his 5-point theory that later became the guiding principle for many of his designs.
Freestanding support pillars Open floor plan independent from the supports Vertical facade that is free from the supports Long horizontal sliding windows
Roof gardens While the earlier buildings by Le Corbusier, called pure prisms were smooth, white concrete and glass structures elevated above the ground, his later designs used rough, heavy forms of stone, concrete, stucco and glass. He was a visionary who not only anticipated the role of the automobile but envisaged that cities would have big apartment buildings with park-like settings. Le Corbusier, as a famous architect was also known for his innovations in urban planning and his solutions for low income housing. Moreover, he believed that the stark buildings he designed would contribute to clean, bright, healthy cities. Le Corbusier's dreams of such an urban haven were aptly realized in the Unité d'Habitation, or the "Radiant City," in Marseilles, France which was built to incorporate shops, meeting rooms, and living quarters for 1,600 people in a 17-story structure. During his long life, Le Corbusier designed buildings in Europe, India, and Russia. Le Corbusier also designed one building in the United States and one in South America.
His most famous buildings are:
Palace for the League of Nations, Geneva 1927 Villa Savoye, Poissy, France 1929 Swiss Building, Cité Universitaire, Paris 1931 The Secretariat at the United Nations Headquarters, New York 1952
R. Buckminister FullerBorn of poverty and bankruptcy, Buckheimer Fuller had contemplated suicide before his life changed courses and he became a famous architect known for his unique architectural styles dominating the 20th century. He believed that his life was an experiment and that it belonged to the universe. At the age of 32, he embarked on a journey to discover what a penniless and unknown individual might have to offer effectively to humanity. He searched for ways to do more with less so that all the people could be fed and have a shelter over their heads.
Although he never obtained a degree in architecture, he was a modern architect and engineer who designed revolutionary structures. His famous Dymaxion House was a pre-fabricated, pole-supported dwelling. His Dymaxion car was a streamlined, three-wheeled vehicle with the engine in the rear while his Dymaxion Air-Ocean Map projected a spherical world as a flat surface with no visible distortion. However, Fuller’s greatest contribution is perhaps the geodesic dome - a remarkable, sphere-like structure based on theories of "energetic-synergetic geometry'' which he developed during WWII. Efficient and economical, the geodesic dome was widely hailed as a possible solution to world housing shortages.
Although his Dymaxion car did not achieve popularity and his design for geodesic domes is rarely used, Fuller made his mark in areas of architecture, mathematics, philosophy, religion, urban development and design.
His most important works included:
1932: The portable Dymaxion house manufactured 1934: The Dymaxion car 1938: Nine Chains to the Moon 1949: Developed the Geodesic Dome 1967: US Pavilion at Expo '67, Montreal, Canada 1969: Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth 1970: Approaching the Benign Environment

An architectural career is both, demanding and challenging and involves a creative as well as a technical education. To be a top, professional architect one needs to learn the skills, techniques and computer aided software by attaining an education of the highest quality. Listed below are some of the best architectural school in America today.
Westwood CollegeWestwood College of Technology is committed to ensuring success in the career that you pursue. The Computer-Aided Design Program (CAD) is one of the best in the country and will help you to acquire the skills needed for a profitable architectural career. One of the top architectural schools, it boasts of rewarding hands-on-experience with training of the recently released AutoCad, combined with interesting lecture sessions and a rich laboratory environment. The programs offered are Associate CAD and Architectural Drafting.
Lincoln TechLincoln Tech's Architectural Drafting Design and CAD Technology program is one of the best in the country where you are taught the essentials needed to function as a draftsperson. It emphasizes on developing specific drafting skills and helps you to build a solid foundation on which to begin your architectural drafting career. The Diploma program focuses on a full range of technologies to prepare you to work as an entry-level drafting technician. With hands-on traditional table techniques along with up-to-date computer aided drafting (CAD) techniques for designing residential and commercial buildings, you will soon not only be designing but will see your dreams to fruition with an education at Lincoln Tech. The programs offered at this top architectural school are...Associate Degree in Architectural Drafting Design & CAD technology Diploma Program in Architectural Drafting Design & CAD technology
NewSchool of Architecture & DesignThe NewSchool of Architecture & Design located in San Diego, California offers a holistic view of teaching and will make you change the way you view the world. NewSchool known as one of the most innovative and best architectural schools in the country strives to meet the ever evolving dynamics of the architecture profession by providing an instructional program that explores a student's artistic passion and transforms it into professional excellence. NewSchool is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) as well as the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and grants Bachelors and Masters degrees. The programs offered are
Bachelor of Architecture Bachelor of Arts in Architecture Executive Master Master of Architecture Master of Science in Architecture Pennsylvania Institute of Technology
There are two main programs offered at the Pennsylvania Institute of Technology.
Associate - Architectural/Civil Engineering – teaches the students the basics of building design and construction as well as the unique and complex elements that are a part of this field. The courses offered are Architecture Design, Structural Design and Construction Technology with an emphasis on Computer-Aided Design, materials and methods of construction and building codes. While Mathematics, physical and applied sciences, project management, and basic communication skills are fundamental elements in the program, advanced courses present opportunities to solve complex technical problems.
The degree program in Computer-Aided Design Technology (CAD) was developed especially for students planning to start their careers with CAD software. This program provides comprehensive skills and knowledge necessary for the development of accurate computer-aided graphics, design and drafting applications. It also focuses on the use of several CAD applications such as AutoCAD, Architectural Desktop and Microstation coupled with graphic theory and the related fundamentals of technical design.
Cornell University The architecture department at Cornell is regarded as one of the most prestigious in the world today and offers some excellent programs in undergraduate and masters of architecture. Cornell University has one of the oldest and most respected schools of architecture in the United States. With a tradition of more than 130 years, they not only strive to offer the best architectural education available but also continue to evolve, to meet current and future challenges.

Sustainable architecture is designing buildings keeping in mind environmental goals and sustainable development. The terms green architecture or green buildings are often used interchangeably with sustainable architecture to promote this definition further. In a broader sense and taking into account the pressing economic and political issues, sustainable architecture seeks to reduce the negative environmental impact of the buildings by increasing efficiency and moderation in the utilization of building materials, energy and development space. Similarly, green architecture denotes economical, energy-saving, environmentally-friendly, sustainable development and explores the relationship between architecture and ecology.
In a case strongly promoting sustainable architecture, some experts have laid down certain basic elements that will help us to contribute to this matter further.
Small spaces Large houses generally use a tremendous amount of energy to heat and cool. They also consume far more building materials which may have their own environmental consequences. In a move to do away with such wastefulness, small houses are now being preferred allowing one to conserve energy and avoid unnecessary depletion of natural resources.
Solar Energy Nothing can be more comfortable for body and mind than living in a good solar-heated house. If designed ecologically, good passive solar energy provides just enough sunlight into the rooms to be absorbed by the surrounding thermal mass which acts as a heat battery and gives the warmth back into the room when the sun goes down. Crushed volcanic rock and straw bales make for good thermal mass insulation and designs in a green house
Renewable Energy Among the several ways to conserve fossil fuel and produce electricity are using the natural powers of the sun, wind, or water.
Conserving water The use of low water capacity toilets, flow restrictors at shower heads and faucet aerators are now being used as a part of sustainable architecture. More radical water conservation approaches include diverting gray water from bathing, clothes washing and bathroom sinks to watering plants; catching rain water from roofs and paved areas for domestic use. Landscaping with drought tolerant plants can also save water.
Using local and natural materials Nature has been benevolent enough to provide us with several materials to build with, no matter what region you live in. If you use local materials for construction, processing and transporting hassles are minimized thereby also keeping environmental and economic costs low. From both, an aesthetic and health point of view, building with natural materials also helps sustainable development. Natural materials would include stone, glass, lime or mud plasters, adobe or rammed earth, bricks, tiles, untreated wood, cork, paper, reeds, bamboo, canes and grasses as well as all natural fibers. Including plants in your living space can greatly enhance the natural ambiance. Plants not only look nice, but they also release oxygen into the air, and some of them can actually filter some pollutants out of the air.
Saving our forests While wood is most definitely a renewable source of energy we have gone beyond sustainable harvesting and ruined our eco-systems through deforestation. Wood must be used as little as possible and mainly for decorations. Cull dead trees for structural supports. Use masonry, straw bales; paper crepe, cob, adobe, rocks, bags of volcanic rock, etc., instead of wood. Homes can be made with certified sustainable harvested trees. This means that the forests where the trees are cut down from are carefully monitored to ensure that the health and character of the forest is maintained. Only certain trees are culled periodically, leaving the remaining trees to grow and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

Nestled between the coastal communities of Carlsbad and Vista, San Marcos is one of the fastest growing cities in Northern San Diego County. Located approximately 40 miles from downtown San Diego, the San Marcos real estate community offers a wide variety of housing options, and strives to accommodate almost any potential home buyer.
Prime Location an Advantage for the San Marcos Real Estate Area
Located only miles away from prominent coastal communities, the San Marcos real estate area has a prime geographical location. Only 12 miles west of the beautiful Carlsbad beaches, San Marcos is also surrounded by Vista to the North, Escondido to the East, and La Costa to the South.
The San Marcos real estate community also has access to several notable interstates. Located along Highway 1-15, the business friendly city of San Marcos draws visitors from all across the country for its selection of home furniture and electronics. Highway 78 is also available to the San Marcos real estate area, running completely east to west through the city, past Vista, all the way to the Pacific Coast.
San Marcos Real Estate Steadily Expanding
The San Marcos real estate area has a population of more than 64,000 residents, 29 percent under the age of 18. With only 40 percent of the area’s suitable land developed, the San Marcos real estate area has a capacity for much more growth. Design and construction of one of the largest home developments in the history of San Diego County has begun, and will prove to be an advantage for the enterprising San Marcos real estate community. The community of San Elijo Hills is projected to increase to 3,400 homes on 2,000 acres in the next ten years. The location for this San Marcos real estate expansion will be centered along the hills of Lake San Marcos, which resides on the western border of the city.
The San Marcos real estate of today is composed of medium-sized, middle-class homes, some with a Mediterranean flair, and almost all with well-maintained land. The average price for a single family home in San Marcos is approximately $550,000. However, prices can greatly vary according to location.

“For every action, there is an opposite reaction.” So said Isaac Newton in his 3rd Law of Motion. Newton’s law is true for an apple falling from a tree or building a new home. Consider three primary opposing forces at work when building a new home – Cost, Quality and Time. We call this the CQT Triangle. Understanding the opposing forces of the CQT Triangle is critical when selecting the right builder to build your new home.
The CQT Triangle has three opposing corners that tend to pull at each other – Cost, Quality and Time. Putting emphasis on one corner tends to have an opposing, negative effect on the other corners.
For example, if your primary concern is meeting an aggressive timeline, then it’s more likely cost will increase. There is also the risk that quality will be compromised in order to meet an aggressive timeline. Conversely, if the builder has a more flexible building schedule, it may allow him the time to achieve a higher standard of quality and more opportunity to better control costs. If quality is your primary consideration, the cost will be higher and the construction may take longer. If your primary concern, however, is staying within a specified budget, accepting a more modest quality standard may be required. For example, tile countertops might be perfectly acceptable as opposed to granite countertops and will save on costs. Or, carpeting the bedrooms and limiting hardwood to the great room and kitchen areas might be an opportunity to save costs.
Understanding the relationship of Cost, Quality and Time is important in choosing the right builder. The Due Diligence Report provided by PrecisionCraft will give you much needed information about prospective builders. It’s not uncommon for builders to have more strength in one or two of the CQT corners. For example, a builder that specializes in a high quality craftsmanship might have an “artwork” standard. But, there is a price to pay for “artwork” usually in time and/or cost. Aligning your priorities with the strength of the builder will help you achieve your objective.
The information in the PrecisionCraft Due Diligence Report combined with a clear understanding of your CQT priorities will help you make the right choice in selecting a builder. It is always best to talk with your PrecisionCraft Project Manager and the prospective builders about your expectations and priorities.
Idaho's award-winning industry leader in log home architecture, log home design and log home materials and construction. PrecisionCraft Log Homes offers a complete Total Home Solution for log homes & timber frame homes: premium custom handcrafted, timber frame & milled log homes, onsite setup of the log & timber structure. Since 1990, we have provided unmatched quality from concept to completion.

Sarasota, Florida certainly is a magnet for those seeking the ultimate vacation house, as well as the permanent home, since the place offers a wide variety of enlightening experiences within beautiful surroundings.
Historically, people are not quite sure how Sarasota derived its name. One theory is that it was named after the daughter of Hernando De Soto, Sara. De Soto, along with Ponce de Leon and Panfilo Narvez, were the first explorers to land on the Gulf Coast in search of gold and silver. Another legend says that the name may have been derived from the Spanish "sarao sota", which when translated means "a place of dancing."
Sarasota, Florida is a fantastic, and colorful city. With a population of over 53,000, there are a lot of options for housing that are accessible to prospective homeowners. If you are considering building a home in Sarasota and need more information in regard to modular homes, there are assorted companies available to provide you and your family the very best home for your needs.
The Sarasota market continues to gain strength compared to the overall state of Florida, according to the Sarasota Association of Realtors. For example, Condominium purchases went up by 12% in July 2007, as compared with 141 sales in July 2006. The median sales price was up 14.8%, from $269,990 in July 2006 to $310,000 in July 2007. Single family home sales went up by 5% from 351 in July 2006 to 369 in July 2007, but median sales price was down 14.5%. Statewide however, the real estate market saw a decline of 24% from July to July for single family homes.
In deciding to build a home in Sarasota, there are some more questions to ask yourself and priorities you need to establish. Here are the stuff you need to consider:
* How much could you really afford in buying a home. A local mortgage company can help you answer this question.
* How much space do you need, or want.
* Are there specific areas of town that you prefer.
* How many bedrooms and baths do you feel you need ?
* Find out other amenities are important to you (ex: eat-in kitchens, family room, pool, attached garage, etc)
* How big a lot of land would you like to have
* Should the house be close to certain schools, your job, or public transport
In looking for housing developers and contractors in Sarasota, it would be best to check out the local yellow pages for additional support, or chck on online developers and real estate agents. One notable local developer would be McKenzie Builders LLC. McKenzie Builders is a full service residential construction company building affordable homes in Manatee and South Hillsborough counties on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast, with over 20 years of building experience in this area.

Having a new customized home built can be an exciting experience. Getting through the process however can be a long and at times difficult ordeal. People having a new home built often rely solely on their builder to help guide them through the construction. Unfortunately he may not be the best person to advise them on their project.
Consider the following:
Home builders and many contractors involved in home construction are not licensed professionals No license means no mandated formal training or apprenticeship, no continuing education, and minimal accountability
City building inspectors check for code compliance, not quality
Codes do not cover all aspects of the building process
These are facts that the majority of people building new homes or for that matter having work done on their existing home, do not know. But who can a new construction home buyer find who will objectively and competently oversee an entire building project and provide knowledgeable, unbiased information on construction techniques and materials? An independent, licensed, professional home inspector.
Most often home inspectors are called in after the new home owner has been experiencing problems with the house, often for many months or even years after it was built. What new construction home buyers almost never consider is hiring the inspector while the house is being built.
When problems do occur and the homeowner is asked about new construction inspections some reasons heard for not enlisting the help of an independent home inspector are:
The local building official is inspecting the home
As previously stated these inspectors look for code compliance, not quality. They are in the home only briefly during different phases of the construction. Do they miss things? Yes they do and no they are not usually held accountable for their mistakes. Also they are municipal employees and are not directly responsible to the persons buying the home. In other words they won’t contact the buyer if there are problems. They simply instruct the builder to correct the issues and move on to the next home.
Cost
It’s always about the money and for good reason. Costs can escalate quickly when building a new home. Buyers often want upgrades and these push up costs. So hiring an independent inspector can be an expense that is hard to justify. After all they believe the city building official is inspecting the home.
The builder has a good reputation
He may, but how do you know. Many people do not research the builder before signing on with them to build their home. This may be even truer when purchasing the home through a third party such as Realtor. Get references and check them before signing a contract.
It is also important to understand specifically what the builders’ job is. He generally is the person who manages the entire construction process. He must hire and coordinate many sub-contractors to install the vast amount of components that make up a house. This can be an overwhelming task for just one home, but if he is building several homes at once it can be nearly impossible to effectively manage.
It’s a new house; there should be nothing wrong (Very likely the biggest misconception related to new homes)
If you have ever bought an item, taken it home and it broke the first time you used it then the absurdness of this statement should be glaringly apparent. But never the less many people who have a home built believe because it is new and there is a one year builders warranty there will be no problems.
A house is a complex structure containing many different systems that must all function correctly and in harmony. It is built over the course of several months by many different people. Assuredly there are going to be problems and most often they are minor or cosmetic. But there are those occasional big problems that can make the home barely habitable or in extreme cases uninhabitable.
Was not aware that an outside inspector could be hired
When paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to have a home built, you are certainly entitled to have whom every you choose oversee the process. If you meet resistance to bringing in an outside inspector, this should be a red flag that something could potentially be wrong.
But why is it important to hire an independent inspector to look after the project?
Very simply quality control. If the construction company in charge of building your home knows that the customer has hired an independent, knowledgeable inspector to oversee the build, they are very likely to be more diligent in their quality of work. The psychological effect can be just as influential as the actual physical inspections.
Home inspectors and home builders encompass similar knowledge of home construction. However home inspectors are formally trained individuals who are licensed and consequently must also attend a specific amount of continuing education for license renewal. Home builders are not licensed, only registered, and therefore are not required to be formally trained or attend continuing education. They must only pay a yearly fee to remain registered and in business.
This is also true of the majority of contractors who perform work on a new or existing home. The term Home Improvement Contractor is a catch all category for companies that do any type of improvement work on homes. For example carpenters who frame the home fall into this category, as do roofers, foundation contractors, sheet rockers, flooring installers and many other individual companies that are part of putting a house together.
Another important aspect of the home inspectors experience is they view all types and ages of homes. They see the results of poor construction practices and understand better than anyone the consequences of inferior workmanship. It’s an important and unique perspective that no other profession can claim.
Finally a hired independent home inspector works for and reports directly to you. He is your advocate and can be an invaluable asset during the building of your new home.
Before you buy a new home consumer groups advise protecting your rights by taking these steps:
Research your builder thoroughly before signing any agreements.
Consider hiring a real estate lawyer to negotiate your contract. There is no better time to negotiate than before you buy.
To protect your right to sue, strike any requirement that disputes will go to binding arbitration.
Ask for the names of subcontractors building your home. Investigate their work before you buy.
Hire a professional inspector to examine your home during construction. Point out flaws that can be fixed before you move in.
Discuss your warranty thoroughly with the builder. Put everything in writing.
Leave a paper trail. Send all correspondence to the builder by certified mail, return receipt requested.

Be completely happy living in your new home by finding the right home building plan just for you. Before searching through hundreds of home building plans there are a few things you can do to make sure the decisions you make are well thought out verses being spontaneous:
1. Make a list of all your priorities.
2. Select three different plans to make your final decision from.
3. Include the possibility of future expansions to your home. Whether it may be adding on to your home or utilizing the attic space above a garage or in the attic space.
4. Make sure your furnishings (either furniture you already own or plan to own) will fit well and you have enough space to move about your rooms easily. Pay special attention to your dining room(s) so that there is enough space for your chairs to be pulled out to sit comfortably down at your table. If there will be a staircase/hallway, make sure that there is adequate space (width and height) to move furniture in and out.
5. Kitchen plans should flow well from the sink to the stove to the refrigerator and have enough counter space to work easily without the traffic ways being cramped. Always plan a nice closet-type pantry area in your kitchen. It saves a bundle on cabinet expense and helps keep things at an easy reach.
6. Bathrooms are more spa-like nowadays. Consider if you would like that oversized shower, a separate tub and even a spot for a television. Walk-in showers are a hit today. Ahhhhhxhilarating!
7. Consider having a laundry room on more than one floor of your home. It only makes sense to not have to carry loads of laundry up and down the stairs.
8. If you like to sew, paint, craft and such it is a great idea to plan your own “play” room. This room should be organized from the start so that you can work without having obstacles preventing your creativeness from flowing.
Okay, did I get your thoughts flowing? Think of all the little things that are important to your everyday life as well as the things that are special to you and your loved ones. If you love to sit on a chaise lounge and read a spicy thriller, make sure you pick your spot (that it will fit) before your build your home. If you love to entertain, make sure you pick a home building plan that will allow your guests the comfort of your hospitality. As you can see, choosing a plan takes thought and time. So don’t rush. You’ll be much better off by taking your time and thinking through all the little stuff.

According to bankrate, the 10 features listed below add a lot of value to your home. Based on my recent purchase of a new construction single-family home, I have added my comments for each of these features.
1. An updated kitchen
When we visited the model home, we really liked the granite counter tops, new appliances (that got me excited too!), lot of cabinets for storage, and an island in the center of the kitchen. The island is can be used for more counter top space as well as a small eat-in area. For my wife, this was the biggest selling point of the home.
2. Modern bathrooms
This is an important one. The master bathroom must have double vanities. That means, you and your partner each have their own space with a sink to get ready. Modern bathrooms also have a separate jetted bath tub and shower area. Modern light fixtures are a plus.
3. A well-appointed master suite
For me, the master suite was the selling point. A master suite must, at least, have enough space for a king size bed, dresser and 2 night stands. Separate space for a sitting area, tray ceiling, crown molding at to the value.
4. Natural materials
In floor coverings, especially bathrooms or kitchens, look for ceramic tile or wood rather than linoleum. If you have carpet, it should be a good product and well-maintained.
5. Curb appeal
Again very important. When you come home from work, your home's appearance should be a welcome sight. Nicely trimmed lawn area and uncluttered driveway go a long way in achieving good appeal.
6. A light, airy spacious feel
There should be enough light and cross air ventilation coming into the house. Being of Indian origin, we always consider a home where the front door faces the southwest direction.
7. Good windows
The house should have a lot windows. All windows must be properly insulated. Personally I prefer to have blinds on all the windows. Well-placed skylights are also a good touch to add value. Unfortunately, I don't have any in my house.
8. Landscaping
Always have a well manicured lawn. A few plants wont hurt either. We are planning to have our back yard fenced for added privacy. I wouldn't mind having a swing, but that means less play area for my daughter.
9. Lots of storage
You couldn't go wrong with an over sized garage, some attic space and plenty of closets. We have a good sized 2 car garage, but we currently just have one car. So more storage space for us.
10. Basement
Having a finished basement adds even more value. Basements add a lot to your resale value. Unfortunately, we don't have a basement.

Architectural styles denote the classification of architecture in terms of form, techniques and materials in an integration of architecture designs from over lapping periods of time. There have evolved various and diverse types of architectural styles over the years; listed blow are some of the more popular ones.
Art DecoThe Art Deco style was an echo of the Machine Age and became popular in the 1920s. It was stylized by geometric decorative elements and a vertically oriented design. Towers and other projections above the roofline enhance the vertical emphasis of this style while flat roofs, metal window casements, and smooth stucco walls with rectangular cut-outs are symbolic of the Art Deco exterior. Facades are marked with zigzags and other stylized floral, geometric and sunrise motifs. A distinctly urban style, Art Deco in American architecture was used widely and popularly for commercial buildings during this period.
ColonialMore than simply the design elements, Colonial architecture refers to the time period in American architecture, between the early 1600s, when the first colonists began to build settlements and 1776, the year the colonies declared their independence from England. Economical, refined and basic, the colonial designs reflect the buildings practices of America’s early settlers. Although Colonial architecture is often thought of as stately and symmetrical with an orderly arrangement of windows, it actually comes in several sizes, shapes and styles reflecting the diverse cultural traditions of the English, Dutch, Spanish and French.
ContemporaryContemporary-style homes became hugely popular between 1950 and 1970. There were two types of contemporary American architecture – the flat-roof type and the gabled roof type. These were characterized by odd-sized and often tall windows, lack of ornamentation, and unique mixtures of wall materials like stone, brick, and wood. Both types of designs were one-story tall and designed to incorporate the surrounding architectural landscape into their overall look.
GeorgianFanciful and royal, the Georgian architecture was styled in honor of the first three monarchs of England, all of whom were named George. Formal and majestic Georgian homes are known for their refined and symmetrical design with paired chimneys and a decorative crown over the front door. Another unique feature is the orderly row of five windows across the second story. With sport side-gabled roofs, Georgian houses are two to three stories high, and constructed in brick. Besides symmetry, this kind of architecture is symbolized by rich classical detail such as large Greek or Roman style columns, elaborate entryways with beautifully arched windows resting atop them and elegant ornamentation.
Gothic RevivalGothic Revival became popular in the mid 1800s. This style was largely influenced by English romanticism and intricate wooden millwork. It was characterized by Gothic windows with distinctive pointed arches and featured exposed framing timbers and steep vaulted roofs with cross-gables. They also included extravagant features such as towers and verandas.
InternationalEuropean architects initiated the modern style of architecture in the 20th century. Using materials such as concrete, glass and steel, it was devoid of ornamentation or decoration. The architectural landscape in the international style introduced the idea of exposed functional building elements such as elevator shafts, ground-to-ceiling plate glass windows, and smooth facades.
Prarie HouseThe first Prairie-style house was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in Chicago in 1893. This American architectural style peaked between the years 1900s and 1920s and focused on modest homes that blended the natural beauty of the Midwestern landscape. It consists of two main styles - boxy and symmetrical or low-slung and asymmetrical and the materials used are brick and clapboard. It has low pitched gable roofs with eaves extending well beyond the walls, creating an effect that allows it to blend with the scenery. Other details included pronounced overhangs, stone belts to accentuate the horizontal designs, rows of casement windows, one-story porches with massive square supports as well as stylized floral and circular geometric terra-cotta or masonry decorations around doors, windows, and cornices.
Shingle VictorianThis American architectural style was used widely in cottages along the trendy, wealthy North-eastern coastal towns of Long Island and Newport in the late 19th century. Wide porches, unadorned doors, windows, and cornices, steeply pitched roof lines are symbolic of this style. Continuous wood shingles cover the entire surface of the home, giving it a cohesive look. Some unique features in this style include dormers, recessed balconies, and side towers with bell or conical roofs structured under the shingles.
TudorThis architecture was initiated in the 1920s and 1930s, but continues to remain a popular architectural style in suburbs across the United States even today. It is characterised by half-timbering on bay windows and upper floors with facades that are pronounced by one or more steeply pitched cross gables. Patterned brick or stone walls, rounded doorways, multi-paned casement windows, and large stone chimneys are also some of the features of this architectural style.
VictorianVictorian architecture in America originated in the second half of the 19th century, when America was identifying new approaches to building and design. Victorian styles include Second Empire, Italianate, Stick, and Queen Anne among others. Advances in modern technology ensured the incorporation of ornamentation such as brackets, spindles, and patterned shingles into the Victorian designs.

Architects have been and will remain at the forefront of designing the built environment that surrounds us. As professional experts in the field of building, design and construction, architects use their creativity to simplify the complex process of designing and build socially and economically sustainable cities and communities. Following are some world famous architects known for their unique creative skills, vision and contributions.
Frank Lloyd WrightFrank Lloyd Wright is one of America’s most famous architects. Although he had no formal education in architecture, he believed that his work as a farm hand in Wisconsin made him very perceptive and helped develop his spatial abilities. After studying engineering at the University of Wisconsin for a few semesters at the age of 15, he left to apprentice with J.L. Silsbee and Louis Sullivan. After working with them for six years, Wright opened his own practice. During his 70-year career, Wright designed 1,141 buildings, including homes, offices, churches, schools, libraries, bridges and museums. One of his most important contributions was the Prairie House style of architecture. He experimented with obtuse angles and circles, creating unusually shaped structures, an example of which is the spiral Guggenheim Museum (1943-49). He also developed a series of low-cost homes which he called Usonian. Although he earned recognition in the early 1900s as one of the popular modern architects he became the recipient of the American Institute of Architects only in 1949.
Some of his more famous projects were:
Frederick C. Robie House 1909 Unity Temple 1906 Fallingwater 1936 Johnson Wax Administration Building 1936
I.M. PeiI. M. Pei one of the most famous modern architects was born in Canton, China in 1917. Pei grew up in Shanghai, but in 1935 he moved to the United States to study architecture and engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and later at Harvard University. He became the Director of Architecture at the real estate development firm, Webb & Knapp in 1948 and then founded his own firm in 1958.
Over the past fifty years, Ieoh Ming Pei has designed more than fifty buildings across the globe including industrial skyscrapers, museums and low income housing. Concerened more with function than theory, the defining feature of I. M. Pei’s style is the use of large, abstract forms and sharp, geometric designs. His glass clad structures are born from high tech modernist movement.
During his career, Pei and his firm have won numerous architecture awards. He won the prestigious Pritzker Prize in 1983.
Some of his more noteworthy buildings are:
The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University Bank of China Tower John Hancock Tower Louvre Pyramid National Gallery
Le CorbusierLe Corbusier, born in the late 19th century, was a pioneer of modern architecture. He founded what is popularly known as the International style or the Bauhaus. The essence of modern architecture as advocated by him was described in his 5-point theory that later became the guiding principle for many of his designs.
Freestanding support pillars Open floor plan independent from the supports Vertical facade that is free from the supports Long horizontal sliding windows
Roof gardens While the earlier buildings by Le Corbusier, called pure prisms were smooth, white concrete and glass structures elevated above the ground, his later designs used rough, heavy forms of stone, concrete, stucco and glass. He was a visionary who not only anticipated the role of the automobile but envisaged that cities would have big apartment buildings with park-like settings. Le Corbusier, as a famous architect was also known for his innovations in urban planning and his solutions for low income housing. Moreover, he believed that the stark buildings he designed would contribute to clean, bright, healthy cities. Le Corbusier's dreams of such an urban haven were aptly realized in the Unité d'Habitation, or the "Radiant City," in Marseilles, France which was built to incorporate shops, meeting rooms, and living quarters for 1,600 people in a 17-story structure. During his long life, Le Corbusier designed buildings in Europe, India, and Russia. Le Corbusier also designed one building in the United States and one in South America.
His most famous buildings are:
Palace for the League of Nations, Geneva 1927 Villa Savoye, Poissy, France 1929 Swiss Building, Cité Universitaire, Paris 1931 The Secretariat at the United Nations Headquarters, New York 1952
R. Buckminister FullerBorn of poverty and bankruptcy, Buckheimer Fuller had contemplated suicide before his life changed courses and he became a famous architect known for his unique architectural styles dominating the 20th century. He believed that his life was an experiment and that it belonged to the universe. At the age of 32, he embarked on a journey to discover what a penniless and unknown individual might have to offer effectively to humanity. He searched for ways to do more with less so that all the people could be fed and have a shelter over their heads.
Although he never obtained a degree in architecture, he was a modern architect and engineer who designed revolutionary structures. His famous Dymaxion House was a pre-fabricated, pole-supported dwelling. His Dymaxion car was a streamlined, three-wheeled vehicle with the engine in the rear while his Dymaxion Air-Ocean Map projected a spherical world as a flat surface with no visible distortion. However, Fuller’s greatest contribution is perhaps the geodesic dome - a remarkable, sphere-like structure based on theories of "energetic-synergetic geometry'' which he developed during WWII. Efficient and economical, the geodesic dome was widely hailed as a possible solution to world housing shortages.
Although his Dymaxion car did not achieve popularity and his design for geodesic domes is rarely used, Fuller made his mark in areas of architecture, mathematics, philosophy, religion, urban development and design.
His most important works included:
1932: The portable Dymaxion house manufactured 1934: The Dymaxion car 1938: Nine Chains to the Moon 1949: Developed the Geodesic Dome 1967: US Pavilion at Expo '67, Montreal, Canada 1969: Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth 1970: Approaching the Benign Environment

An architectural career is both, demanding and challenging and involves a creative as well as a technical education. To be a top, professional architect one needs to learn the skills, techniques and computer aided software by attaining an education of the highest quality. Listed below are some of the best architectural school in America today.
Westwood CollegeWestwood College of Technology is committed to ensuring success in the career that you pursue. The Computer-Aided Design Program (CAD) is one of the best in the country and will help you to acquire the skills needed for a profitable architectural career. One of the top architectural schools, it boasts of rewarding hands-on-experience with training of the recently released AutoCad, combined with interesting lecture sessions and a rich laboratory environment. The programs offered are Associate CAD and Architectural Drafting.
Lincoln TechLincoln Tech's Architectural Drafting Design and CAD Technology program is one of the best in the country where you are taught the essentials needed to function as a draftsperson. It emphasizes on developing specific drafting skills and helps you to build a solid foundation on which to begin your architectural drafting career. The Diploma program focuses on a full range of technologies to prepare you to work as an entry-level drafting technician. With hands-on traditional table techniques along with up-to-date computer aided drafting (CAD) techniques for designing residential and commercial buildings, you will soon not only be designing but will see your dreams to fruition with an education at Lincoln Tech. The programs offered at this top architectural school are...Associate Degree in Architectural Drafting Design & CAD technology Diploma Program in Architectural Drafting Design & CAD technology
NewSchool of Architecture & DesignThe NewSchool of Architecture & Design located in San Diego, California offers a holistic view of teaching and will make you change the way you view the world. NewSchool known as one of the most innovative and best architectural schools in the country strives to meet the ever evolving dynamics of the architecture profession by providing an instructional program that explores a student's artistic passion and transforms it into professional excellence. NewSchool is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) as well as the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and grants Bachelors and Masters degrees. The programs offered are
Bachelor of Architecture Bachelor of Arts in Architecture Executive Master Master of Architecture Master of Science in Architecture Pennsylvania Institute of Technology
There are two main programs offered at the Pennsylvania Institute of Technology.
Associate - Architectural/Civil Engineering – teaches the students the basics of building design and construction as well as the unique and complex elements that are a part of this field. The courses offered are Architecture Design, Structural Design and Construction Technology with an emphasis on Computer-Aided Design, materials and methods of construction and building codes. While Mathematics, physical and applied sciences, project management, and basic communication skills are fundamental elements in the program, advanced courses present opportunities to solve complex technical problems.
The degree program in Computer-Aided Design Technology (CAD) was developed especially for students planning to start their careers with CAD software. This program provides comprehensive skills and knowledge necessary for the development of accurate computer-aided graphics, design and drafting applications. It also focuses on the use of several CAD applications such as AutoCAD, Architectural Desktop and Microstation coupled with graphic theory and the related fundamentals of technical design.

Sustainable architecture is designing buildings keeping in mind environmental goals and sustainable development. The terms green architecture or green buildings are often used interchangeably with sustainable architecture to promote this definition further. In a broader sense and taking into account the pressing economic and political issues, sustainable architecture seeks to reduce the negative environmental impact of the buildings by increasing efficiency and moderation in the utilization of building materials, energy and development space. Similarly, green architecture denotes economical, energy-saving, environmentally-friendly, sustainable development and explores the relationship between architecture and ecology.
In a case strongly promoting sustainable architecture, some experts have laid down certain basic elements that will help us to contribute to this matter further.
Small spaces Large houses generally use a tremendous amount of energy to heat and cool. They also consume far more building materials which may have their own environmental consequences. In a move to do away with such wastefulness, small houses are now being preferred allowing one to conserve energy and avoid unnecessary depletion of natural resources.
Solar Energy Nothing can be more comfortable for body and mind than living in a good solar-heated house. If designed ecologically, good passive solar energy provides just enough sunlight into the rooms to be absorbed by the surrounding thermal mass which acts as a heat battery and gives the warmth back into the room when the sun goes down. Crushed volcanic rock and straw bales make for good thermal mass insulation and designs in a green house
Renewable Energy Among the several ways to conserve fossil fuel and produce electricity are using the natural powers of the sun, wind, or water.
Conserving water The use of low water capacity toilets, flow restrictors at shower heads and faucet aerators are now being used as a part of sustainable architecture. More radical water conservation approaches include diverting gray water from bathing, clothes washing and bathroom sinks to watering plants; catching rain water from roofs and paved areas for domestic use. Landscaping with drought tolerant plants can also save water.
Using local and natural materials Nature has been benevolent enough to provide us with several materials to build with, no matter what region you live in. If you use local materials for construction, processing and transporting hassles are minimized thereby also keeping environmental and economic costs low. From both, an aesthetic and health point of view, building with natural materials also helps sustainable development. Natural materials would include stone, glass, lime or mud plasters, adobe or rammed earth, bricks, tiles, untreated wood, cork, paper, reeds, bamboo, canes and grasses as well as all natural fibers. Including plants in your living space can greatly enhance the natural ambiance. Plants not only look nice, but they also release oxygen into the air, and some of them can actually filter some pollutants out of the air.
Saving our forests While wood is most definitely a renewable source of energy we have gone beyond sustainable harvesting and ruined our eco-systems through deforestation. Wood must be used as little as possible and mainly for decorations. Cull dead trees for structural supports. Use masonry, straw bales; paper crepe, cob, adobe, rocks, bags of volcanic rock, etc., instead of wood. Homes can be made with certified sustainable harvested trees. This means that the forests where the trees are cut down from are carefully monitored to ensure that the health and character of the forest is maintained. Only certain trees are culled periodically, leaving the remaining trees to grow and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

Nestled between the coastal communities of Carlsbad and Vista, San Marcos is one of the fastest growing cities in Northern San Diego County. Located approximately 40 miles from downtown San Diego, the San Marcos real estate community offers a wide variety of housing options, and strives to accommodate almost any potential home buyer.
Prime Location an Advantage for the San Marcos Real Estate Area
Located only miles away from prominent coastal communities, the San Marcos real estate area has a prime geographical location. Only 12 miles west of the beautiful Carlsbad beaches, San Marcos is also surrounded by Vista to the North, Escondido to the East, and La Costa to the South.
The San Marcos real estate community also has access to several notable interstates. Located along Highway 1-15, the business friendly city of San Marcos draws visitors from all across the country for its selection of home furniture and electronics. Highway 78 is also available to the San Marcos real estate area, running completely east to west through the city, past Vista, all the way to the Pacific Coast.
San Marcos Real Estate Steadily Expanding
The San Marcos real estate area has a population of more than 64,000 residents, 29 percent under the age of 18. With only 40 percent of the area’s suitable land developed, the San Marcos real estate area has a capacity for much more growth. Design and construction of one of the largest home developments in the history of San Diego County has begun, and will prove to be an advantage for the enterprising San Marcos real estate community. The community of San Elijo Hills is projected to increase to 3,400 homes on 2,000 acres in the next ten years. The location for this San Marcos real estate expansion will be centered along the hills of Lake San Marcos, which resides on the western border of the city.
The San Marcos real estate of today is composed of medium-sized, middle-class homes, some with a Mediterranean flair, and almost all with well-maintained land. The average price for a single family home in San Marcos is approximately $550,000. However, prices can greatly vary according to location.
Abundant Local Offerings Present in San Marcos Real Estate Area
The San Marcos real estate area is home to a wide variety of recreational venues and activities. This family-oriented town has two public swimming pools, three golf courses, and eight parks. There are also various sports leagues available to children including, softball, gymnastics, football, and Little League baseball. With the beaches of Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Encinitas just a short drive away, the beautiful coastline also offers a variety of activities for the San Marcos resident. Whether it is sun, sports, surf, or sand that you favor, the San Marcos area presents entertainment for all ages.

An architectural career is both, demanding and challenging and involves a creative as well as a technical education. To be a top, professional architect one needs to learn the skills, techniques and computer aided software by attaining an education of the highest quality. Listed below are some of the best architectural school in America today.
Westwood CollegeWestwood College of Technology is committed to ensuring success in the career that you pursue. The Computer-Aided Design Program (CAD) is one of the best in the country and will help you to acquire the skills needed for a profitable architectural career. One of the top architectural schools, it boasts of rewarding hands-on-experience with training of the recently released AutoCad, combined with interesting lecture sessions and a rich laboratory environment. The programs offered are Associate CAD and Architectural Drafting.
Lincoln TechLincoln Tech's Architectural Drafting Design and CAD Technology program is one of the best in the country where you are taught the essentials needed to function as a draftsperson. It emphasizes on developing specific drafting skills and helps you to build a solid foundation on which to begin your architectural drafting career. The Diploma program focuses on a full range of technologies to prepare you to work as an entry-level drafting technician. With hands-on traditional table techniques along with up-to-date computer aided drafting (CAD) techniques for designing residential and commercial buildings, you will soon not only be designing but will see your dreams to fruition with an education at Lincoln Tech. The programs offered at this top architectural school are...Associate Degree in Architectural Drafting Design & CAD technology Diploma Program in Architectural Drafting Design & CAD technology
NewSchool of Architecture & DesignThe NewSchool of Architecture & Design located in San Diego, California offers a holistic view of teaching and will make you change the way you view the world. NewSchool known as one of the most innovative and best architectural schools in the country strives to meet the ever evolving dynamics of the architecture profession by providing an instructional program that explores a student's artistic passion and transforms it into professional excellence. NewSchool is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) as well as the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and grants Bachelors and Masters degrees. The programs offered are
Bachelor of Architecture Bachelor of Arts in Architecture Executive Master Master of Architecture Master of Science in Architecture Pennsylvania Institute of Technology
There are two main programs offered at the Pennsylvania Institute of Technology.
Associate - Architectural/Civil Engineering – teaches the students the basics of building design and construction as well as the unique and complex elements that are a part of this field. The courses offered are Architecture Design, Structural Design and Construction Technology with an emphasis on Computer-Aided Design, materials and methods of construction and building codes. While Mathematics, physical and applied sciences, project management, and basic communication skills are fundamental elements in the program, advanced courses present opportunities to solve complex technical problems.
The degree program in Computer-Aided Design Technology (CAD) was developed especially for students planning to start their careers with CAD software. This program provides comprehensive skills and knowledge necessary for the development of accurate computer-aided graphics, design and drafting applications. It also focuses on the use of several CAD applications such as AutoCAD, Architectural Desktop and Microstation coupled with graphic theory and the related fundamentals of technical design.

The decision to buy or build a new home is a momentous occasion at any phase in life, but the decision to buy or build a new home and choose the best retirement living community can be especially intimidating. While some of the best retirement communities are springing up everywhere in the United States, Florida remains one of the most popular choices for retirement because of its favorable climate and variety of active senior lifestyle communities. When considering buying or building a home in a retirement living community, the first and most obvious things buyers taken into consideration are qualities of the community itself. However, there are many additional factors that should be considered in making a decision about buying or building a home where you will spend the rest of your life. Knowing what to look for as a potential homeowner in a retirement living community can help buyers make better decisions for their golden years.
Several things to consider when trying to choose the best retirement communities for your new home:
The community's qualities - Consider the positive things the retirement living community has to offer. Does the community promote an active senior lifestyle? Offer a variety of activities? What types of amenities are available to its residents? Is the surrounding landscape pleasing? Consider the location and nearby attractions. What is it like getting around the area? What is traffic like? Another thing to consider is the community's demographics - what types of people live there? The best retirement communities are places where one would feel comfortable and be happy living day in and day out.
The builder's reputation - Another important thing to determine before buying a home in a retirement living community is whether or not the builder is solely responsible for the homes or if they contract work out to other builders - the best retirement communities use builders who do the work themselves. Some retirement communities will actually hire several contractors, which can affect the quality of work – and may even put buyers in a situation where an outside contractor is responsible for their home warranty. Another important thing for a buyer to consider is the contractor's stability. Will they be around in two years?
Taxes and fees - Find out if the community is truly resident-owned - many retirement living community home buyers are often surprised to find that they are paying additional hundreds or thousands of dollars in annual living costs. These additional costs can come from the Community Development District (CDD), which places taxes on homes in the community in order to cover the costs of public roadways, utilities and other improvements. Other fees may include leases paid to the developer or a third party for recreational facilities, golf courses and other amenities. The best retirement communities will disclose any additional costs you might have prior to closing. Some builders will put these costs on residents' shoulders, failing to inform the buyer of this in the initial purchase price or closing costs. Often times, buyers are not even aware of these additional costs until they receive their first tax bill or association fee statement. A builder may claim that placing the responsibility of paying these taxes or fees on the resident allows them to build homes at a lower initial cost. Prevent surprise taxes and fees by asking your retirement living community developer to tell you about any additional CDD taxes, leases or other fees upfront.
Closing costs - Buyers often get caught up in the excitement of a home purchase and don't think to ask how much it will actually cost to get into the new house. Buyers should be wary of additional closing costs as many developers tack thousands of extra dollars onto closing statements for attorney fees, and other miscellaneous fees that they may claim to be necessary or standard practice. Generally, a contract cannot be closed until these additional fees are paid. Some of the best retirement communities will actually cover all of part of the closing costs themselves, which will save hundreds of dollars in up-front charges and eliminate the possibility of a finding a "big surprise" in the closing statement.
Construction satisfaction guarantee - Does the builder offer a construction satisfaction guarantee like those available at the best retirement communities? With a satisfaction guarantee, you can be confident in the builder's commitment to your satisfaction. In these guarantees, the builder pledges to fix any construction you are not happy with and may even buy the house back if you are still unhappy at that point. Essentially, choosing a builder in a retirement living community that offers a satisfaction guarantee will bring peace of mind in the construction process.
Conclusion When considering buying or building a home in a Florida retirement living community, performing a thorough evaluation of the builders and their policies is just as important as evaluating the community itself. Once you've compared the best retirement communities and found a retirement living community whose location and amenities fit your lifestyle, look for builders that build their own homes, have a good reputation for quality and service, and offer construction satisfaction guarantees, and be sure the builder tells you about all potential costs upfront. You might save thousands of dollars, and you'll be certain to enjoy an easy transition to retirement.

The process of building a manufactured home is completely different than that of a traditional home, from its origin inside a factory to its ultimate destination -- your property! Home buyers can have the security of knowing that the weather won't affect the building process, nor will their home be damaged by inclement weather; manufactured homes are built in a temperature-controlled environment.
Owing to this temperature controlled environment protection, manufactured homes are of a higher caliber than traditional homes. Because manufactured homes are assembled in a factory and, therefore, protected from the elements, there is very little chance that they will be exposed to dampness and moisture, a home owner's worst nightmare.
This is of the utmost importance because, building with wet materials can severely compromise the structural integrity of your home. This will hit you hard in the pocketbook when you have to pay for costly repairs and still find that your homes resale value has decreased.
Manufactured Homes- The Good Aspects
One major benefit of purchasing a manufactured home instead of a traditional one is the flexibility of manufactured home designs. There are literally hundreds of options for features on your manufactured home. This allows you to be the designer of the appearance and functionality of your future home. Fireplaces and sliding glass doors are features that can often be added, and you can even choose an entire set of appliances to be shipped along with your home.
The easy process involves examining the possibilities, determining which extra variables suit your taste, finding the cost, and your manufactured home can be made to order. Compared to a manufactured home, changes or additions to the design of a traditional home is very expensive. Architects, new floor plans, and permits may all be required should you wish to make modifications to the original blueprint.
Another great benefit of choosing a manufactured home is that construction is three times faster than building a traditional house, so you can move into your new home in a third of the time! If money and time are of the utmost importance to you, manufactured homes are the best choice, as they are both well priced and quickly built.
There are very high standards to up hold within the manufactured home industry. The manufactured home industry is controlled by region-specific and state-specific restrictions and regulations. In addition to region-specific and state-specific regulations, there are nationwide restrictions and regulations that are enforced, as well. Traditional homes must only meet local regulations, and therefore may be of a lower standard than manufactured homes.
In short, manufactured homes won't take as long to build, will meet the highest standards and regulations, and will be much more affordable. A manufactured home may be the perfect choice for you, so book a tour at your local company soon!

(1) Location
The location of a building inadvently contributes a lot to the high/low cost of building. The Nigerian case for class has a long way of affecting cost of building generally, especially Lagos.
What happens in our urban areas is class segregation, a case whereby you were once poor and fits for the slums and outskirts or other areas that are less prime, and suddenly your economic purse changes, the first thing that happens to an average Nigerian is to relocate. Why? because he believes that is where is class is, the only place fits for his children's education, his business e.t.c
There is the general belief that when you move among the high and mighty yourself, you get more connected to where money is, and the probability of getting contracts is there. But people fail to realise that you can connect to anybody and makes friend more easily in today's ICT age without relocating.
Hence you see when a place is designated as Government Reserved Area, what usually happens is the influx of the rich and this turns even a terrible and non-developed land atimes to prime lands overnight just because of class and oppressive nature of the rich. The building artesans/workers ends up charging more when you are building in those area because of the influx of moneybags. So you will end up spending more money and you won't get the land cheap either.
(2) Type or Nature of Soil
This is where a lot of people gets it wrong and shoots themselves on the foot when planning on building projects. Soil types, strong, mild or very strong generally affects the overall costs of the building. soils are classified under five main headings.
1) Rocks, which include igneous rocks, limestones and sandstones
2) Cohesive soils, such as clays where the constituent particles are closely integrated and stick together.
3) Non-cohesive soils, such as gravels and sands, whose strength is largely dependent on the grading and closeness of the particles.
4) Peat which is decayed vegetable matter of low strength with a high moisture and acidic content.
5) Dump site or made ground which may contain waste of one kind or another and can cause settlement or stability problem.
When building your house the nature of soil on your site will go a long way in affecting your purse. Find out if the land is the good loadbearing type and you will cut cost. People digging your foundation will not need to dig so far, and foundation concrete you will also use will be minimal in comparison to weaker soils. Dump site is the worst place to use because you will need to remove the debris, else your foundation will be affected and this will cost you more. The stronger your type of soil the lesser the amount of money you will spend.
The topography or level of your land also is very important for you to spend less, in a case where one portion of your site is very low to the other, surely this will take you more money to manage in terms of either block or split-level constructions.
Make sure you get to the exact portion of the land you are being proposed to, because if you by oversight or carelessness buy a damp site, you will need to effectively drain the water to increase the stability of the ground, to avoid surface flooding, and to avoid dampness of the surface of the inner walls and basements, and also to remove humidity in the immediate vicinity of the building.
I have fallen into a mistake like this before so I know what it may cost you if you do same. Firstly, you may have to fill the land and spend more money, though when you were buying the land in question you paid so less and you were given the impression, that you won’t spend more. But you will regret unless you are so rich, I have seen a first hand experience on this, that is why when buying a land is better you buy in the rainning season to give you the opportunity of accessing the site in question. A client once bought a land so cheap but in a very low area, which makes his land a runway for water drainage, you need to witness it when rain is falling yourself, then you might appreciate what I am talking about, strong water currents mind you can overturn a house.
A waterlogged ground will also require reinforcement or iron and concrete which ordinary bungalow in a strong and clear area will not need.
(3) Access to infrastructure
Proximity of land to good infrastructures like road, water, electricity and others goes a long way in affecting the cost of building a house. You may not know, if a tipper can not get access to your site, you will spend 50% of the money you could have used in bringing materials to your site on labour that will carry them. For instance carrying blocks to the site where is actually needed. If water is close that is also an advantage. But this also have is own negative effect on cost of land, but at the long run it is better to buy where all these amenities are in place. Note: consider the cost of running your own pipe, electric poles and grading or clearing the road.
(4) Traffic Access
The human and vehicular access just as explained above can be of great benefit and the influx of people to places like that can also leads to high cost of construction.
(5) Taste, type and Size of Design
High taste demands high cost, your class or status may most likely reflects on the kind of building you want, the type of electrical fittings you want in your house to cater for your utilities, air-conditioner, e.t.c your plumbing fittings to cater for jacuzzi, spas, bathtub, swimming pool e.t.c and other fittings for your comfort and convenience may cause your building cost to rise.
The type of building entails either it is a simple 2,3 or 4 bedroom bungalow or it has to be a duplex/manssionnete. Generally, it costs more to build storey buildings because of the cost of completing concrete floors to just acquiring more lands and building on them for the same numbers of room.
In terms of size the rooms size, the kitchen and other purpose area sizes may even make an ordinary 2 bedroom flat for you to be costlier than another man's 4 bedroom flat. Then talk of additional utility rooms like study, game rooms, prayer room, extra living e.t.c.
(6) The Menace of Omo Onile (Land Owners)
There are cases of “Omo Onile” trying to outstretch the buyer even when you have paid them their illegal entitlements. Some can go as high as making you repurchase your land again altogether. What of the selling of Government acquired Lands to unsuspecting buyers, this is very, very common in Lagos, God saves you if the Government wakes up one day and decides to ask for their land, you will count yourself lucky if they only ask you to pay or repurchase the land. What if they ask you to evacuate altogether and your building completely bulldozed.
(7) Proximity to Institutions
Educational, Health and Religious institutions dots our landscape but what most don’t realize is that they invariably raises the cost of getting lands in their localities, because of influx of people going in and out of these various institutions, commercial activities are always affected positively, thereby bringing business opportunities to those in the locality. An obvious example is Canaanland Ota in Ogun State. You can see the visible increase of properties in this once a forest suddenly turned to haven of investors, and buildings of all manners springing out.
(8) Commercial Viability of the Area in which Building is Constructed
(9) Quality of the priofessionals and artesans involved
If you use quacks for your building project,yes at presence you will spend less but be aware that before the house is completed or after ,you will spend much more if you refused to use a professional. Talk of the cost of maintaining your house after parking in,the quality of the design that an architect could have easily given to you cheaply ,what of the structural disposition of the building that a civil or structural engineer could have given you for extra peanuts or a quantity surveyor that will cost your building and knows if you are heading for the rock ,or the builder that would have made sure your drawing plans is properly represented or executed and standards are not compromised .Get a professional in the field and let him recommend an artesan –bricklayer carpenter e.t.c to you or you get one by yourself or one that was recommended for you .you then must make sure you check his old jobs and confirm that it is good’or tell your professional to follow you and access the persons past job, he should be able to point to one.
(10) Materials
building materials also contribute immensely to the quality and cost of house immensely ;from what you used in foundation to the materials of roofing ;there is always an array of prices . Even cement bags are of different prices ;What of the blocks ;they also depends on quality; some can sell theirs #10 to#20 difference from others because of the rich cement mixture ratio and the type of sound, while others could just double the price of lower quality ones. For example "BECO BLOCKS" price is usually double the common ones around in Lagos. I guess you know even in roof there are categories also from the ordinary asbestors roof to the modern aluminium the prices always varies.
(11) Quality of finishes
there are different types of finishing which also raises an issue of taste and money to be spent .Even painting atimes can cost more than what is required to buy major materials in another persons building. With the advent of more technological breakthrough in building accessories, where you can now have bullet proof doors and windows with metal detectors, with furniture companies coming out each day with new innovations, there is bound to take into serious considerations the cost of finishes in overall costing of your house.
(12) Aesthetics
The beauty atimes goes along with the complexity of a design, this you may not know affects the cost of building a lot, especially when the walls of building are not aligning and the roof are also complex this may raise the overall cost of the building.
(13) Time or Duration
When a building is taking long time to complete, there is the tendency of spending more at the long run. Consider materials that would have gotten spoilt due to long delay of use on site, what about woods that are left for rain to be beaten, cement that have gone bad, there may be need for some replacements on site anytime you go back to continue after a long lay off.
(14) Inflation
Unstable economic conditions and rise in fuel products also affects building indirectly by multiplier effects. Remember vehicles that uses fuel are needed to bring materials to site.
(15) Security
When the place is close to a police station or is noted to be generally very secured, houses in this area will always go high up.

(1)The soil scientist:
The soil scientist work is to determine how suitable is the land for the purpose of which is going to be used for.They check the strength,ph content and gives report on the effects of building on such lands.They are important indeed to avoid settlement of land due to weight of building in the future. They use different ways to investigate soil conditions.For simple residential buildings on reasonable sites digging several holes about three spits deep, drilling holes up to 2 or 21/2m deep with a hand auger or driving a pointed steel bar about 1 1/2m into the ground are generally sufficient. With larger buildings or more difficult sites,the following methods are applicable.
(i)Excavating trial holes about 1 1/2m deep deep outside the perimeter of the building.
(ii)Drilling boreholes by percussion or rotary methods.The percussion method uses a steel bit with a chisel point screwed to a steel rod.The rotary method employs a hollow rod with a rotating bit and a core of strata is forced back up the hollow rod.
(iii)Load testing often using a reinforced concrete slab about 1.20 to 1.50m2 and 300mm thick,to which loads are added at about 2 hour intervals and the amount of settlement is determined with a level .The safe bearing capacity of the soil is found by dividing half the load applied prior to appreciable settlement into the area of slab.
(2)lawyers:
Lawyers are needed right from when you want to purchase your land,they help in all legal dealings. From contracts to agreements between you and the "omo onile" landowners; you need them .It is the job of a lawyer to find out the true owner of the land because the person selling to you may actually not be the right person to do so, they will do a thorough scrutiny on the agreement papers and give their legal advice on your investment.The money you pay for this service may be worthwhile considering the possibility of loosing your money if you refuse to contact them.
(3)Land Surveyors:
These people map out the the area or plot of your land.They see to it that your land is properly demarcated from your neighbour with their instruments and skill they will give you the accurate length of your plot .There drawing is what you take to the architect for design of your building. You also needs survey plan for validation of your land when you want to register it.
(4)Architects:
They liase with you i.e the clients on one on one to achieve the type of building you want .Architects give professional supports to the clients not only on the design of the building ,the execution ,but general support even the viability of the building .The work of an architect is extensive because they are generally closer to you clients than every other building professionals. He is in the best position to know what meets your dreams and how to help achieve it. He conceives or dream and put pen to paper and sketch out what you have in mind,gives you to criticise to suit what you want properly, and make the necessary adjustments .He is the bridge between you and the other professionals and artesans on site ,by his position he is the head of the building team.
(5)Quantity Surveyor:
This professional estimates and see to it that you won't embark on a project that is beyond your financial means .They cost and determine the amount of money you will require to build your house so that you don't end up abandoning your project midway. This people are very important unfortunately Nigerian of today do not see the need for them and that is why we have abandoned projects dotting our landscape. It is nice to have a beautiful and befitting house .It also helps to promote the architects that designed it for you when your house is very beautiful, though for small projects your architect can give you an idea of what your building will cost ,but you may not really get the perfect and non-sentimental estimate as to what a quantity surveyor will give you. The quantity surveyor has nothing to lose if the house is very ugly his job is to make sure you have a financial understanding of what you are about to embark on. On big projects ,they maintain and award money to artesans and labour based on the input each worker is putting.
(6)Civil or Structural Engineers:
The civil or structural engineer in building industry is to see to it that, the stability or structural disposition of your building is not compromised. I mean they give calculations and recommends based on the Architect's drawing, what kind of reinforcement or iron or any other structural elements that can make your house stable and will not collapse. And they come out with the drawings on this to help the builder on site to carry out is work effectively.
(7)Mechanical Engineer
These people see to the mechanical aspects of the building especially large projects they give out detailed drawings and specified on plumbing work in the building, the plumbers work with them and help carry out instructions for the good of the project.
(8)Electrical Engineer
As the word implies they see to it that there house is properly lightened. Dangerous electrical connections has led to the death of several people. I will advise you have the electrical engineer in your plans when embarking on a building project. They give instructions to the electrician on large project sites.
(9)The Builders
These are one of the most important professionals in the building industry, unfortunately, the Nigeria of today is a case of dog eats dog. A situation where you claim you can do the work of somebody else and no law to discourage you against such impersonation that is what we are seeing in the building industry at presence. "Collapse of buildings" The builder is trained to carry out or execute on site or transform or bring into reality on site the drawings and intentions of every other building professionals, may it be the Architects, the Civil Engineer, the Mechanical Engineer and the Electrical Engineer. His duty is to see to every artesans or workers on site carries out is job effectively. Unfortunately every jobless person with some money in Nigeria are now claiming to be building contractors and people out of ignorance do not even know the difference.
Even other professionals too are jostling for each others job. A situation where a town planner or a surveyor lays claim to the fact that he can design a house plan for you or when a quantity surveyor is doing the work of a builder will not give you the best you deserve. A building contractor yes, is important in a construction industry but their work is not to bypass any professional rather they are to work with the professionals or consult with them to carry out the project effectively except if the contractor is a professional himself. They are probably the one to finance the building project at times, but to get a very good job you must insist on knowing the professional they will be working with.

This is it. You've found your dream location. Perhaps you are still looking for your vacation home plans, the blueprints to bring your vision to life. You envision long weekends, coffee on the porch, water skiing in the lake, snow skiing down the hill, walks on the beach, your own kitchen to have breakfast in. Whatever your goals are for this home, it's slowly about to become reality.
Oh my gosh. You're going to build a home. That's a huge undertaking! It's exciting and scary. Don't worry, you can do this. Take a deep breath and follow some 'been there, done that' advice.
Tip #1 Find out if there are any special reports that need to be done before you hire anyone, preferably before you buy the land. Do you need an environmental report? Is there some kind of obscure bug residing in the area that might delay or prohibit your building process? Even if there are homes next door to your lot, check. The county or city where you are building will have all of the data. This is a very critical part of the building process. I have friends who have had to spend thousands of dollars and several years just to certify that a moth that breeds there will not be damaged. Some vacation home eh?
Tip #2 Get to know your clerks. The permitting process can be tedious. It is very important that you never yell or berate anyone in the system of approving your permits to build. Don't go into battle. Play nice and you might be better able to get your way. Most clerks are not paid enough to care if your deck gets denied. But a clerk who likes you might be more inclined to approve quicker. Building a home is all about building a strong network of fans willing to assist you on your way.
Tip #3 Buy a home plan that is designed for your specific topography. If the land is flat as far as your eye can see, don't build a Colorado style home with a walk-out basement. It won't work no matter how much you love the floor plan. There are plenty of sites that will allow you to input your land specifications so you can pick the right style for your lot.
Tip #4 Find a good budget and then add about $25,000+ for overages depending on the size of your project. Issues that cost extra money do invariably come up so it's good to be prepared. And if they don't you've just come in under budget. Congratulations to you as the minority of home builders.
Tip #5 Find a contractor who likes technology. Little things like being able to email you a digital photo of their daily building progress are a huge help when you are not nearby. See if they can text message you questions instead of calling or emailing (and then add text messaging to your phone). It's not just for teenagers and is the least stressful way of communicating available.
Tip #6 Screen your contractor. Most towns also have some sort of Chamber of Commerce who will give you recommendations of good local contractors. It's also important to check the Better Business Bureau for negative reports but don't assume they are a good contractor just because they are listed there as good - most people don't know that those listings are paid for. Just look for negative marks and avoid that contractor.
Tip #7 Schedule time to work on home issues. Decisions have to be made along the way. Emergencies will most likely come up. Don't automatically rush out to the site. Do as much as you can from home via phone or internet. Find blocks of time each week or, as you get further into the build, each day, to be able to handle yesterday's list of things that need to be done. If you need to make a decision, put it on the daily list and address it during your allotted time slot otherwise you will be running around in circles.
Now take a deep breath and start shopping for your vacation home plans. You can make it through this process if you understand that the vacation will not start until the work is done. Then you have a lifetime of memories to make at your new vacation home.
So you have a dream to build your own vacation home? Vacation home plans aren't always a breeze to build, especially when you don't live down the street to oversee every detail. Trust us. I remember taking the four hour trip a couple times per week when we first started our journey. It certainly did not feel like a vacation to us. It felt like a full time job.