What do your plan options include?

Construction set: This includes 5 sets of plans including all four exterior views, complete floor plans, a basement plan (if applies), a foundation plan, a roof overview, building sections, and any other details necessary to explain how to build your home. This is the basic package that you need to obtain a building permit, secure your financing, and to actually build the home. (Although our plans are designed for national building codes, it is important to have a Structural Engineer in your area review the plan before construction begins.)
Reproducible Set: This is similar to the construction set except it comes to you on reproducible paper called vellum. With this option, you are able to make all of the copies you need to build your new home. A reproducible set includes a copyright release allowing you to legally make copies of this copyrighted plan for one particular project. It does not, however, give you the license to build the plan more than one time without a Multi-Use Construction License.

What is included in the square footage?

The square footage includes all of the area inside the exterior face of the "heated walls". It does not include garages, porches, or decks. For this reason, you cannot multiply the stated dimensions of each room, add them together and come up with the total square footage because you are not including walls, hallways, closets, etc.

Can the plan I like be changed?

Modifications are available for most of our house plans. The best way to approach this is to call or e-mail us to discuss the areas you wish to change. Many times, changes can be made "in the field" or during construction thus saving you design fees.

How do I find out if the house I like has been built in my area?

Unfortunately, we do not release this information for privacy reasons.

How do I know if I can afford to build the home I have chosen?

The best way is to actually sit down with your builder with a full set of house plans and establish budgets for all aspects of the home. This includes lighting, carpet, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, etc.

What if I only need 1 set of plans? Can’t I take them to my local printers to make more copies?

You can, but it’s illegal. All plans sold through SpecializedHomePlans are protected by copyrights.

Can I return the plans if I change my mind?

Unfortunately, no. Since it is possible to make illegal copies of the plans you received, we do not allow any refunds. You need to make sure of your order before placing it.

Will the plans I order contain all of the information needed by my local building department?

Almost. In addition to the complete building plans that you order, you will also need a site plan that shows where the house is going to be located on the property. We can do this for you if you send us your lot information, or your builder can help you with this. You may also need a septic design unless your lot is served by a sanitary sewer system. Many areas now have energy codes that have to be followed. This normally involves filling out a simple form proving compliance. Most importantly, there are some areas of the country that have very strict engineering codes. Examples of this would be earthquake prone areas of California or hurricane risk areas of the Florida coast. If you are building in this type of area, it is possible that you will need to hire a local engineer to analyze the house and provide additional drawings and calculations required by your building department. If you aren’t sure, your local building department should have a handout listing all of the things you need to submit for a building permit.

What is a Material List and what does it include?

It is a complete list of the building materials needed to build your home. It includes lumber, insulation, trusses, etc. It doesn’t usually contain items that are part of a bid such as drywall, plumbing, electrical, appliances, etc. Because of the vast difference in building materials and building styles in different areas, we leave the materials lists up to the individual contractors.

Is my privacy and credit card information secure?

Completely. When you place an online order on our secure server, your credit card information is protected. As for your privacy, we do not give out any private information to anyone for any reason.

Is it possible to see a rear view of the homes?

Yes. A growing number of our designs already have a rear elevation available by clicking on the "rear elevation" link under the front view. If you don’t see it, simply write or call and we will send you one by fax or e-mail.

I want to build this home on 3 different lots. Can I just purchase extra sets?

No. In addition to buying a set of house plans, you are also buying a license or permission to use the designer’s copyrighted material for the construction of one home. We offer discounted fees for multiple use but you will need to call for information.

How much do modifications cost?

They can range from $50.00 to hundreds of dollars depending upon the extent of your changes. Often, the number of changes justifies the design of a completely new plan. If you are interested in making changes, give us a call or e-mail what you are looking for and we will go over them in depth and get back to you with a quote.

Would my modifications be less expensive if I drew them on my Home Architect software?

Unfortunately, no. Even though it would clarify your intentions, the designer would still need to spend the same amount of time changing all aspects of the drawings.

What is a daylight or walk-out basement?

It is most often seen on sloping lots that allow at least a portion of the basement to have larger windows. Depending upon the amount of slope, you can often times have a door that walks directly out.