Questions-to-Ask-Before-Building-Your-Log-Home

Five Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Begin Building

Set yourself up for success with these key concepts.

Building a log home or timber hybrid may be one of the most significant undertakings — and adventures! — you ever embrace. The process involves taking a deep, personal dive into your preferences and lifestyle, navigating the technical parts of design and planning, and then tackling the nuts-and-bolts process of construction. It may sound like a daunting task, but knowing what to expect will allow you to navigate the ins and outs of the process with confidence. Being well-prepared for what lies ahead will not only make the process easier, but it will also allow you to enjoy the journey.

Here are five questions you can ask yourself to ensure you are ready before you begin building.

1. Have I purchased and prepped my lot?

Where you plan to build your log home can have a significant impact on your home’s design and overall budget. This is why we suggest beginning your log home journey by having a secured lot. The size and location of your lot will determine your local building requirements and influence design considerations. Clearing and excavating your lot, along with having the soil tested, can impact design options, as well as construction costs and timeline. As a result, this essential prep work is considered the foundational first step in the building process. Navigate the early stages of building on your lot.

2. What is my vision for my log home?

Every Ward log home shares certain characteristics, like quality materials and craftsmanship, that create a natural beauty and an unparalleled warmth and charm — but from there, every log home is different. At Ward, we like to say that every home we build is a custom home, and that’s because every one of the families we build for is unique. (And we’ve been crafting homes for 100+ years!)

To ensure your home is suited to your needs and lifestyle, start by asking questions about how you will use this home (is it a retirement home for two or weekend getaway for the whole crew?) and the overall feel you want to create (do you like a space to feel light and bright or more intimate and cozy?)

Next, consider your daily routine and favorite activities. These answers will help guide you to the layout and features that are right for you as you peruse our dozens of tried-and-true plans, or help us to create a unique-to-you, from-scratch design. Explore our dozens of tried and true plans.

3. Have I located my team?

Like most anything in life, an enjoyable, successful experience depends on the people around you. The right log home company will assist you through every part of the process. Some companies are eager to sell you a package then step away. But at Ward, we are committed to walking alongside our clients every step of the way, providing prompt, proactive assistance with answers to your every question, resources and even on-site visits, as needed.

Just as importantly, having a builder and/or general contractor that listens to your vision and respects your budget and building timeline is essential. (In most cases, this person will also help coordinate the tradespeople that help bring your home to life.) Partnering with the right people will make your log home journey more satisfying and successful. Every one of the families we create a home for is unique.

4. Have I defined my budget?

Having a firm grasp on your financial standing before building is essential. Knowing your numbers will not only help guide your selection of a plan and the features you can include, it will also prepare you for the process of securing financing. Keep in mind that even the best laid plans can face a hurdle or two, so we suggest keeping a contingency fund of 10 to 20 percent of the project cost to cover the inevitable hiccup or two.

5. What is my timeline?

Homeowners often come into the log-home building process expecting to move from the dreaming stage to move-in day within a six-month span. While this may be possible in some cases, for most projects, you will want to allow a more generous 12-18 months to complete the process. As with your budget, creating a buffer for unexpected hiccups will help put your mind at ease through your log home building journey.

Ready to learn more and even begin your dream home journey? Reach out today; every home simply begins with a conversation.