Hi,
We are starting out on the building route- we almost decided on a builder with a display home we liked, but have since decided to go single storey, instead of two storey. There aren't any single storey plans that suit us (we want three living type areas and 4 bedrooms- as we have a deep block we think we can accommodate this in a single storey home).
Our options are:
- modify a display builder's current design to our requirements- this will require significant modification, and the builders we like don't have something too similar.
- get a design done for us and go out for quotes from builders we like.
We're not after a whizz-bang house in terms of features- I have a sketch that incorporates room sizes and features that we like, so we have some kind of basis to start with. If we were to go with getting a design done, would you recommend a draftsman / building designer or architect? How much detail needs to go out for a builder to prepare costs?
When we were comparing two display designs for costs we got back significantly different prices and found this had to do with the what quality of features was included (eg doors, tapware, etc). If there is none of that type of detail in the drawings to go out for pricing, we won't be getting an accurate comparison between builders.
We also don't want to run into too many costs for a design service before we even start. If there's anything I can do myself for this (I am a civil engineer!!) I'd be keen to avoid costs that way too!
Your thoughts would be much appreciated.