Hello to all. After saving and planning for quite some time, my family and I just purchased 10 acres in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. We are near Pittsburgh. The land has a nice topographic diversity and is 100 percent wooded, with mature trees... mostly poplar, cherry, tulip, beech, black walnut, etc. We were certain before the process began that we would use an architect. But, we are not wealthy by conventional standards, just really good at saving - and have been shocked by the price of architects. We want to build the right house for this land, but are torn: do we suck it up and use an architect or buy a plan from, say, the NSBH site? Or are there other options? We have read quite a bit on this topic and have interviewed a few architects. Lastly, we have plenty of time and want to make the right moves. We welcome advice from those who have experience. Thanks in advance for any suggestions. BJEBY
We are building a house from the NSBH at Seven Springs, PA. We bought plans and then had them modified by a architect from Derry, PA who did a good job. His name is Kevin Quinlisk. I can send you his email or phone number if you like. His per hour cost was reasonable. Our builder is Jeff Horrell who is also excellent.
Lisa: This is very exciting news. I am curious... what house plan you are building? These plans can be difficult for some builders. I would love any information you have. Derry is very close to us and we are in the process of interviewing architects. Thanks again.
I think some architects will work with you on price. Some will just do design and not supervise building if you are up to doing the supervising yourself.
Posts: 40 | Location: Northern California | Registered: 07 January 2008
Thanks, Kim. I think we may need to simply save longer and hire an architect. I think there has to be a middle ground between the very high end architect and builder and the everyday suburban landscape house. It can be frustrating.
hello all, That sounds like a great place to build.
I know of a site that may help you once you get going on the plans or any other questions you may have. They help you to locate a contractor in your area for whatever the job is.
