I was skulking around on Whirlpool when I got directed here. I'm planning to build in 2018 but having a darn good time of researching in the interim. I tried to buy a house when I was in my 20s and got ripped off to the tune of 30 grand by a "broker" (brokers were a bit newish in those days and not like those of today). I was a single parent of three and it really hurt me for a long time after. I'm now in my mid-50s, self-employed and doing okay, so am planning a build that I won't need to borrow for.
I have found a design I mostly like, but have modified it to my wants (my house, my ideas). Am creating a mood board for my interior and checking out builders, cabinet makers and so on.
I will probably start a blog next year when things get a bit closer. In the meantime, I have become addicted to this site.
Lee