I thought it was very kind of you to offer your book free to people that couldn't afford it. Who says there is no kindness and altruism left in the world?! Pat W. in Sewanee, TN

John's Forum Posts: 28
Journal Entries: 2
Interview Answers: 132
Average Forum Rating: 4.10



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Building Permit... Hooray!

Posted to Krusehome by John in Lake City, FL on 12/27/2008

After 6 months of gathering information, prices, comments, and suggestions, we finally submitted for a building permit. It took a little over one week to get the permit without any hassle. However; since the first journal entry, the house plans took on several changes. I guess the biggest change is that we are now going with 2x6 exterior frame instead of ICF. I was disappointed, but when we finally received hard-cost pricing compared to estimates, it wasn't even close. I figured what had happened is that these ICF subs get you hooked on committing to the design and then once you get your plans done, they raise the price. Oh well, we are going with Icynene in the walls and ceiling and should still get a great house.

We have called "No Cuts" to come mark the property and have the engineering firm coming out to take a proctor prior to moving soil around. The site work should start the week of Jan. 5th with form boards going up the following week. We are excited to be starting.

One thing the bad economy has done is allowed us to get some of the best pricing on materials and labor. The way things look right now, we should be able to get in a 4,500 sq. ft. house (total under roof) for about $185K. I know that sounds crazy, but so are the prices right now. The A/C sub has dropped his price $4,000 to get the job. The plumber has dropped his by $1,200 and I am waiting on a few others. God is good to us! Keep us in your prayers and I will update once we progress.

John Kruse

Getting Ready to Start, Almost!

Posted to Krusehome by John in Lake City, FL on 6/17/2008

My wife and I have been planning this project for over a year. We are closing on the land tomorrow and are getting ready to start the construction process. We have decided to go with ECO-Block ICF on monolithic slab with Icynene insulation in the attic. We are still interviewing subcontractors and getting bids together. Hopefully by the end of next month we will be started. I would like to get some comments from the group on the house plan. We are in the final stages of the draft and would like feedback. Any help would be great.

 Sincerely,

John & Sheila