Latest Stories

Plan Collection
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly in Living within an HOA (Homeowners Association)

Remember the old bungalow courts in Pasadena—one-story houses built around a common courtyard? They combined privacy and community. Similarly, today’s residential developments governed by HOAs feature individual homes with common areas like parks, bike paths, and pools. Here are the pros and cons in living within an HOA community.

Plan Collection
In With the Old as Vintage Home Features Make a Comeback

Remember your parents’ collection of old record albums and the wood cabinet where they were lovingly stored? How about that dumbwaiter or the laundry chute in a restored home? Today these “old-home” features are “spicing up” new homes. Here’s a closer look at some of these vintage pieces.

Plan Collection
Create a Living Space That’s Fun, Cozy, and Safe for Your New Baby

And baby makes three! Finding space in your small apartment or house for the little one is the immediate challenge. Whether it is a corner in the master bedroom, a converted walk-in closet, or a spare bedroom, you will want to be sure to create a baby nursery that is fun, comfortable, and safe. For many it is also the time to consider a new home, and new parents should have a list of what to look for in a floor plan that is both baby—and family—friendly.

Plan Collection
The Blueprint to Home Styles

From Cape Cod to Ranch—and a lot more in between—there are many design terms and styles that you need to wade through on your way to finding the house plan that’s right for you and your family. We examine seven of the most popular architectural styles in America.

Plan Collection
From House Plan to House Done: The Challenge and Thrill of Building Your Own Home

Of course, you want your own home. The big decision: should you buy an existing home or build a one from plans? Before you decide to build, here is what you need to know. Then think it through, plan and organize each step, and prepare to be an active participant.

Plan Collection
The Cost to Build a House: A Guide to Budgeting

You have been planning your dream home for some time, but now you have to think about how you are going to pay for it. Overwhelmed? You shouldn’t be. Following this step-by-step guide to budgeting makes the process that much easier.

Plan Collection
Tips for Buying Land

Buying a building lot is often done by those looking for freedom and independence from a typical development community. You get to create exactly what you desire within your budget. But it is easy to fall in love with an unsuitable piece of property before doing your due diligence.

Plan Collection
Cement Technology Used in Concrete Block Houses

The most common type of cement used in the home building industry is white cement, which is expensive and used primarily for architectural purposes. Colored cement is mostly used for decorative flooring.

Plan Collection
Goodbye Apartment, Hello Dream House!

What happens when even the “best” apartment gets too cramped for you and your family? Is it time for that dream house with a lovely porch and garden? But wait … before you buy or build, consider these points as you embark on this challenging and exciting journey.

Plan Collection
Living on the Edge: House Plans on Cliffs, Slopes and Hills

How cool would be to build a home on the edge of a cliff with breathtaking panoramic views of distant mountains majesty or shores from sea to shining sea. Here are some expert thoughts about what it would take.