Adventure Series Cabins by Barna Log Homes
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The Building Process

Adventure Log Cabins

Choosing the log home producer is only the beginning in planning for your new log home. Who is going to build it? How much will it cost? And, where will you get mortgage and construction financing? These are just some of the questions that you will need to answer in the process of making your log home a reality.

The following information is provided as a basic outline of the steps needed.

Budget

The first step in basic research is to determine what you can afford, and the average cost per square foot for custom homes in the region where you plan to build. Your Barna distributor can provide you with basic "rule of thumb" guidance, but there's no substitute for specifics. Since building costs vary, it is wise to consult several custom home builders - particularly if there are two or three experienced log builders in your area. That average cost gives you a guideline as to the size home you can afford.

There are a number of ways to cut costs, balancing your wish list with reality. Open floor plans with fewer hallways provide more usable living space; a simplified design with fewer corners also reduces cost. Careful consideration of utilities - having bathrooms stacked one above another, or back-to-back, reduces plumbing costs.

If you already own the land, one creative way to save is to clear the land yourself, saving rocks, timber, and other natural materials for landscaping.

Land Considerations

It is advisable to use a professional Realtor, so that hidden problems can be uncovered in advance. Further you'll want to ask:

  • Is land buildable?
    1. Septic permit, percolation or soil evaluation tests, well or water source
    2. Ingress and egress; encroachments and easements
    3. Covenants or restrictions on size, building materials, style, etc.
    4. Planned or proposed construction around property
  • View, privacy, convenience, location, etc.
  • Land should represent 15%-20% of total budget in most cases; mortgage companies tend to prefer smaller tracts over large acreage when the land will be financed with the home.