The Owner-Builder Book: How You Can Save More Than $100,000 in the Construction of Your Custom Home

by Mark A. Smith, Elaine M. Smith

This easy to understand, step-by-step guide is clear enough for even a novice to understand, Even if you hire a contractor to build you home, this book will greatly help you understand the process. From shopping for a piece of land to getting a loan to dealing with a contractor, the Smiths' advice covers everything about building a home. The authors advise on getting organized and tackling the hardest parts of the process step by step. Included are valuable lists, charts, ideas and questionnaires. Also, how to shop around for bargains and minimize costs room by room.

Genres: Architecture, Construction, Nonfiction

274 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Annette · Rating 3 out of 5]

Because this book was designed for people who wanted to build their own home, it was useful for many aspects of our project. However since we're working with a contractor, there was lots of information about "saving money" that didn't really apply to our situation. Much of the book was spent trying to convince you to build the home yourself rather than using a contractor. The book was most useful in figuring costs of different aspects of home building. I also really liked the lists of ideas and examples.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really insightful. It gave us the courage to build.

[Joseph Roach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Very encouraging to take the next step.