Questions you Should Ask Before Constructing Your Log Home

You've spent years thinking about the possibility of owning your own log home. After a great deal of deliberation and contemplation, you've finally decided to take the great leap and join the scores of other happy homeowners who have chosen to live by the great law of the log. Congratulations are in order!

But before you reach for that spokeshave, there are a few important questions you'll want to consider to ensure that your log home is the perfect fit for you and your family.

What is my budget?

The alpha and the omega of financial considerations. Your budget should be carefully outlined before the axe ever hits the trunk, so to speak. Log construction is, in and of itself, a fairly economical mode of building. If, however, you are the sort of person who values things like heated floors and granite counter tops, you can expect the cost of construction to go up significantly. Have a clear idea of what amenities are must-haves and what can wait for later upgrades. Be sure to include the cost of utilities in your calculations (do you want copper piping or PEX, a gas fired boiler or a heat pump?) as these can also have a measurable impact on the overall cost.

Who will be my manufacturer?

This question will require a bit of research leg work. The good news is that there are loads of log home manufacturers out there, and at least one of them should be able to build you a lovely home to suit your needs and wants.  The bad news is that there are loads of log home manufacturers out there, and not all are created equal. Shop around. Speak to builders face-to-face. Look over examples of their previous work. Be cautious, and go with your gut. If you like a builder's portfolio, but you're still not sure if you want them building your house, then you probably don't want them building your house. Take your time, and wait to find a builder you trust. Your home is an enormous investment in the future, and it should be treated as such.

Where should I build?

This question is tangentially related to our first question. Location choice will also influence the cost of construction. In addition to land value and property tax considerations, be sure to look into the price and accessibility of building permits in the county where you want to build your home. Many people want to build their log homes in remote, secluded areas. This can make for a beautiful pastoral setting , however it can also negatively impact your homeowner's insurance premiums. The further you are from a fire department, the harder it will be to find an affordable insurance policy. Above all though, look for a place that already feels like home. You're going to be spending a whole lot of time at this place, so you'd better darn well love it.

What kind of home do I want?

The obvious, albeit no less important question. These days, log homes come in all shapes and sizes, so it's a good idea to have a clear picture of what you want before you start shopping around. Do you envision yourself in a cabin on the frontier, or a ski chalet in the Swiss Alps? Different manufacturers have designs to suit different tastes; be sure to find one whose portfolio aligns with your vision.

Once you've done the research and tackled the hard questions, call us at our toll free number or come-in to take the next steps toward owning your very own log home.