Drafting & Estimating

Why relying on “per square foot” numbers can cost you more than you think It’s a question every homeowner asks—and every builder dreads: “What’s your price per square foot?” It sounds like a smart, efficient way to compare bids and budget for a build. But here’s the truth: square foot pricing is a shortcut—and a

Avoid Surprises, Stay on Budget, and Build Smarter From Day One If you’re planning to build a custom home, you’ve probably spent time dreaming about layouts, design styles, and finishes. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that the most important numbers in your project come long before you ever break ground — and before

When you’re building a custom home or planning a significant remodel, your construction drawings are far more than just paperwork—they’re the roadmap for your entire project. Done right, they communicate your vision clearly to everyone involved: builders, tradespeople, suppliers, inspectors, and even the permitting office. So, what makes a great set of construction drawings—not just

Post #4 in the series – Drafting & Estimating In the early stages of designing a custom home, it’s easy to assume estimating can wait. After all, you’re still deciding on layout, finishes, and features—why worry about numbers so soon? But overlooking estimating early—or relying on rough generic pricing—can lead to some of the most

Post #3 in the Series Drafting & Estimating Once your residential construction drawings are complete, the next critical step is estimating. This is where your design becomes more than a vision—it becomes a budget. But how exactly do builders, estimators, or consultants take those drawings and turn them into real numbers? Let’s walk through that

If you’re planning to build a custom home, one of the first deliverables you’ll receive is a set of construction drawings. These aren’t just pretty pictures or general layouts—they are the instruction manual for your build. Everyone from the builder to the permitting office relies on these plans to understand how your home is designed,

When you’re planning a custom home, it’s easy to get swept up in design inspiration, Pinterest boards, and imagining your dream kitchen. But before you choose paint colors or flooring, there are two foundational steps that every successful home build starts with: Drafting and Estimating. These two processes—often overlooked in the excitement of new construction—can