I found Mark's book and immediately realized I was on to something. After reading this book (and some others) I concluded that this was where I needed to focus. Mary Beth in Dublin, OH

Mike's Forum Posts: 0
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Second journal entry!

Posted to DutchG by Mike on 4/5/2011 6:38:02 PM

It's a month after my last post. We officially closed escrow on the land. $600K for an acre! Land is expensive in sunny Southern California!

Still working with the architect to refine the plans. Hoping to submit to plan review this month. 

Starting to get really, really nervous about building costs! I've created a computer spreadsheet like the book suggests and have been researching like crazy. Been interviewing suppliers and getting a general feel for costs. Construction costs are quickly approaching the $1 million mark. I'm really hoping my estimates on some things are high... but so far every supplier quote I've gotten has been more than double my original estimate. Garage doors for example. Budgeted $4,000 for two insulated, steel, 18'x8' doors and two 10'x8' doors... actual cost is $11K. Ouch!

There is so, so, so much to learn. I have spoken with one bank to make sure they will loan us the money to build. They have indicated it shouldn't be a problem, but they do want to see contractor involvement. I'm hoping I can get a friend to act as construction manager. He is a licensed mason, with tons of construction experience, but not a "general contractor." I'm hoping that doesn't become too big of an issue.

First entry to the journal!

Posted to DutchG by Mike on 3/1/2011

Am in escrow to purchase the land! Must be nice to live in areas where buying land has prices that have only five figures! Alas... in Orange County... it's high six figures just to buy the land!!!

Have selected an architect and have approved initial design ideas. Will meet later in the week to review initial house plans.