How to Plan, Contract, and Build Your Own Home

On the many important and potentially expensive details that are normally left to the discretion of builders, this guide has been an acknowledged source of information, advice, and inspiration. This expanded second edition features new material on the planning and purchase of major appliances, garage designs and enhancements, plumbing and electrical wiring, energy-saving lighting options, home safety and security measured, and much more. Plus, the authors take a fresh look at vacation homes, multi-family dwellings, solar-powered, underground and kit structures.