Ready to design your dream home but not sure where to start?
We’ve got you covered!
You’ve been pinning, scrolling, and driving by new estates for months. And now you’re finally ready to take the plunge and design your dream home.
Cue the excitement, grab your inspo images and pop that champagne!
But wait… what the heck is the next step?!
Should you call up an architect? Find a building designer? Go straight to a builder? So many options, SO. MUCH. ADVICE! But don’t worry - you’re not alone in feeling a bit unsure.
This is exactly why we’ve set out to have your back every step of the way at Maplewood Lane. We’ll step you through your options and *spoiler alert* - we’re also going to let you in on a little secret:
There’s a smarter, easier, and more cost-effective way to get the home you’ve always dreamed of.
Stick with us, and we’ll explain everything.
Option 1: The Architect
Architects are like the Michelangelo’s of the home design world. They’re artists with degrees and an eye for creating stunning, one-of-a-kind homes.
But here’s the catch - working with an architect can be expensive. Like, eye-watering expensive. We’re talking costs that can range from tens to hundreds of thousands, depending on the complexity of your design.
Another thing to consider: architects often work independently from builders. This means you might end up with a breathtaking design that makes you swoon...until you get a quote from the builder... yikes! The design is gorgeous, but the reality of the price tag? It might be well out of reach.
Option 2: The Building Designer
Next up, you’ve got building designers. Think of them as the architect’s more budget-friendly cousin.
But while a building designer can create a bespoke home without the hefty fees, their schedules are often packed, and the good ones are booked quickly. And even though they are typically more affordable than an architect, you can still be left with a design that pushes the boundaries of your budget once you hand it to a builder. Just like the architect, their process also takes time - anywhere from 12 months to 2 years before you’re even breaking ground.
Option 3: The Builder
Then there’s the option of heading straight to a builder who works hand-in-hand with a designer. (This is how we ran our custom design and build business over at Aaron Martin Construction!)
The biggest benefit is having your builder involved from the design phase, which can really help control costs as the design develops. They can also offer advice on where to save money without sacrificing the features you want. Additionally, the design is still custom to you, your land, and your lifestyle.
But… yes there’s another but!
Even with the builder’s input, there’s still the risk that the design could go over budget.
Ultimately, you as the client are in control of the design (as you should be!), but so often we have been witness to emotions driving design decisions, and budgets becoming long-distant memories.. that is until it comes time for the builder to present your price. *gulp*
Long delays in waiting for concepts to be presented are also still a problem when builders are involved. It can really slow the process because you’re waiting on the input of three parties instead of two.
Now, the final option. Cue the drumroll please…
Option 4: The Maplewood Lane House Plan Toolkit
Call us biased, but this might be your best option yet: our done-for-you house plan toolkits. These aren’t generic, one-size-fits-all plans. Aaron and I have drawn on all of our experience in the custom home-building world to curate a collection of carefully crafted designs that have both beauty and budget in mind.
The best part? You avoid the hefty fees of an architect, the long wait times of a building designer and the cost overruns that happen with both. You *can* have your cake and it too but with way less stress.
Why our House Plan Toolkits are the way to go:
Cost-Effective
These plans are professionally designed with both style and budget in mind. No surprise expenses that can make your dream home suddenly become out of reach.
Time-Saving
No waiting around for months (or years!) while your design gets finalized. These plans are ready to go - just pick the one that speaks to you, and you’re one step closer to moving in!
Builder-Friendly
We designed our plans to be practical for builders, so your build will go smoothly without the headaches of complicated or overly intricate designs.
Visible Upfront Costs
You have a true indication of what your build is going to cost upfront. You’re not falling in love with a dream design that, in reality, is beyond your budget.
So, what’s the right choice for you?
At the end of the day, it’s all about finding what works for you.
If you’re after a unique, high-end design and you’ve got the budget (and patience) - an architect or building designer might be the way to go.
But if you’re looking for a beautiful, cost-effective home design without the years of waiting, Maplewood Lane’s house plan toolkits are your best bet, my friend.
We’ve been where you are, and we’ve seen all the options - but we knew we could do better.
Our vision is to create a pathway for homeowners to build their dream homes; without the lengthy time delays, stress, overwhelm, and uncertainty that come with the standard custom home design process. Here’s a virtual *cheers* to your dream home only being one click away.
You can view our full collection here.