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FAQ's
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Plan Modifications
Your Purchase
Client Services
Plan Modifications
Can I make changes to my Plan?
Most of our plans can be modified to meet your specific needs by the original designers. All you have to do is download our Modification Request Form and FAX it to us for a quote. We will contact the original designer and get a quote back to you within 2 business days. You must purchase a reproducible or CAD file from us and we will put you in direct contact to finish the modifications you have requested. Please note that there is a $30 fee for the estimate that will be credited towards your plan purchase should you decide to move forward with the modifications.
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How much do modifications cost?
The cost to customize a home plan varies depending on the plan, and the types of modifications you are requesting. Costs can range from as little as $100 to as much as several thousand dollars depending on the complexity and types of changes.
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Can I customize my Plan for different foundation types?
Yes. Most plans can be modified, for a fee, to accommodate a any foundation type.
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Can I change the exterior finish on a Plan that I like?
Yes! Exterior finish changes are possible for all of our plans.
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How long does it take to make changes to my Plan?
Depending on the number and complexity of changes, your modifications could take as little as two weeks or as long as several weeks.
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Your Purchase
How many sets of plans will I need to build my house?
We typically recommend and eight set package for most homes. This will allow you and your builder enough sets to bid the job appropriately. For large or executive homes, your builder may request additional sets.
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What is included in a Bid Set of plans?
One set of plans is typically used for bid purposes only and is stamped "Not for Construction". You will receive one complete set of plans including all elevations, floor plans, notes, and sections. You cannot make copies of a bid set as all plans are copyrighted by the designer. You will need to purchase final prints prior to construction to avoid copyright infringement.
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What is a Study Set?
Study sets are purchased to view the selected plan in more detail. They include the four elevations and floor plans only. Since the plans are not to scale, you cannot build from a study set, and you will need to purchase final prints prior to construction to avoid copyright infringement. The cost of the Study Set is credited towards your purchase if you choose to order a complete set(s) or reproducible of the SAME plan within 6 months.
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What is a Reproducible?
A reproducible is one set of plans printed on a transparent paper that is erasable with an electric eraser. It is used for making minor changes such as moving window, etc. With the reproducible package, you receive a one-time build copyright release that allows you to make as many copies of the plan as you like without infringing on copyright laws as long as the home is only built one time. Each designer retains ownership of the original copyright as well as any derivatives of the original plan.
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What is a CAD file?
A CAD file contains all of the information of one set but in an electronic .dxf or .dwg format. The CAD file is used to make major modifications or to bring a plan up to local codes by a local drafter. The CAD files can be opened in most architectural design programs and come with a copyright release allowing you to customize the plan. With the CAD package, you receive a one-time build copyright release that allows you to make as many copies of the plan as you like without infringing on copyright laws as long as the home is only built one time. Each designer retains ownership of the original copyright as well as any derivatives of the original plan.
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What is a PDF?
A PDF file is a "non-changeable" digital file that is e-mailed to you immediately upon approval of your credit card. You will receive a one-time build copyright release with this e-mail that allows you to make as many copies of the plan as you like without infringing on copyright laws as long as the home is only built one time. Each designer retains ownership of the original copyright.
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What is a Right Reading Reverse set?
The plan is reversed with all of the text reading correctly. All of our plans can be reversed, for a fee, in this way.
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What is a Mirror Reverse?
A mirror reverse is a reversed plan with the text reading backwards. You cannot obtain a building permit with a Mirror Reverse, so when placing your order, be sure to indicate that you would like at least one set run right reading.
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Why do I have to purchase a reproducible in order to make modifications to my Plan?
To make revisions to any of our plans, you must first purchase a reproducible or a CAD file on disk, either of which gives you the legal right to make changes. Whether you have the changes made locally, or we make your revisions for you, you must first buy the rights to make the changes.
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Are mechanical and plumbing details included with the Plans?
Mechanical and plumbing plans are not included with our home plans. Your local mechanical and plumbing contractors should provide those plans before they begin work on your home.
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Can you give me the address where this Plan has been built in my area?
Unfortunately, we cannot give out any addresses where our house plans have been built to protect the privacy of our buyers.
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Will my Plans contain all of the information needed for my local building codes department?
We require that our plans are drawn to the IBC codes that were available at the time the plan was designed, but you may need to have additional plan revisions done by a local design professional. Please check with your local building department before you purchase. For examples, some areas of the country require a stamp from an architect or engineer registered in your state.
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Do you have photos of my Plan?
Any available photos are posted with the plans and can be viewed by clicking on the "view photos" link located directly below the front rendering of the home.
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Client Services
Can I place my order over the phone?
Yes! You can place your order via phone by calling one of our Client Service Representatives at 800-970-6554.
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I can't seem to find exactly what I want on your web site; do you have additional plans to choose from?
We have thousands of additional plans that are not yet published to our web site. One of our Representatives would be happy to search our database for plans that meet your specific criteria.
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Is it possible to speak directly to the designer?
Due to confidentiality restrictions, our designers are not allowed to speak directly to our customers. Our Client Services Representatives are extensively trained to answer questions and in most cases will be able to help you.
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Are Your Plans copyrighted?
Yes. All of our plans are copyright protected under the Architectural Works Copyright Protection Act of 1990, and many of them are even registered with the National Copyright Registration Office in Washington, D.C. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited by law. ONE dwelling may be constructed from a 5 set, 8 set, reproducible or CAD purchase. Strict penalties will be enforced for violators of copyright laws.
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What is your exchange/return policy?
All sales are FINAL. PLEASE DOUBLE-CHECK THE PLAN NUMBER BEFORE PLACING YOUR ORDER.
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Is there a time limit for building my Plan?
There is no time limit for the construction of your home. If you purchase a study set, you have 6 months to purchase THAT plan in order to receive the study set credit amount toward the final purchase. If you have purchased a print package, you will have 6 months to order additional sets at the special additional set price. After 6 months, you will need to repurchase the package for additional sets.
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Can I trade my Plans for a different set?
No. All sales are FINAL, SO PLEASE DOUBLE-CHECK THE PLAN NUMBER BEFORE PLACING YOUR ORDER.
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I found the same plan on a different site. Will you match their price?
If you find one of our plans on a different site, we will do better than match that website's price, we will beat it by 5%. You will be required to supply us with the web site address and plan number for verification before discounts are honored.
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What methods of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, check, money order and American Express, MasterCard and Visa. If your are paying with cash, check or money order, your order will not be shipped until the funds have cleared our bank.
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