Choosing a House Plan

Guides on house plans, building costs, permits, materials and energy efficiency, with plans you can buy today.

Choosing a House Plan · 8 min read New Home PDI Checklist: 8 Myths That Cost Canadian Buyers on Key Day The pre-delivery inspection is the last time you see your new home through the builder's eyes. Here are eight common myths about the PDI, and the checks that actually protect your warranty. Read more → Choosing a House Plan · 7 min read Square Footage on Canadian House Plans: What Counts and What It Really Costs A 1,600 sq ft plan can turn into a 3,700 sq ft quote. Here is how Canadian plans, appraisers and builders count area, and how to budget per square foot without surprises. Read more → Choosing a House Plan · 6 min read Building an American House Plan in Canada: What Changes for Code and Climate Most house plans online are drawn for the US market, but many work in Canada with the right changes. Here is what gets adapted for our code and climate, and how to pick a plan that needs the least work. Read more → Choosing a House Plan · 8 min read 8 Things to Know About New Home Warranties in Canada, Province by Province Every province protects new home buyers differently. Here is what Tarion, BC's 2-5-10, Alberta's program and Quebec's GCR cover, plus the questions to ask before you sign. Read more → Choosing a House Plan · 7 min read 8 Things to Know Before You Become an Owner-Builder in Canada Acting as your own general contractor can cut the cost of a new home, but in Canada it brings exams, warranty gaps, insurance and a lot of scheduling. Here is what to weigh before you pull the permit. Read more → Choosing a House Plan · 8 min read 9 Steps to Building a House in Canada, from Buying the Lot to Moving In Building a family home in Canada takes 12 to 24 months from lot to keys. This guide covers the order of the work: financing, plans, permits, inspections, warranty and occupancy. Read more → Choosing a House Plan · 6 min read Building on an Acreage in Canada: Well, Septic, Hydro and the Right House Plan A rural lot can absorb tens of thousands of dollars before the foundation is poured. Here is what to check first, with typical CAD costs and seven plan ideas that make the most of an acreage. Read more →