On Nov 20, 8:40*am, jeff wrote:

still trying to figure out a building scheme for our lot/land in graham
county. *right now, all we want is a one-bedroom, 1000 square foot,
well-constructed and designed building. *simple, easy, for geezer
living.

O.k., I KNOW what you're going to think about this idea.......but you
should just go ahead and build it yourself.

Seriously. It's been done by lamer asses than yours.

Leave the serious foundation work to professionals.....unless you plan
to build the whole thing on stilts (for whatever reason), this you
really can do yourself. Also, building codes in most of America these
days require that licensed professional plumbers and electricians at
least sign off on their respective areas of exptertise, but most of
the work can be done by the home handyman. Yeah, I know, you are the
prototypical "un"handyman.....but there are many excellent books and
online references available these days, not to mention an awesome
array of individuals willing to help at least so far as to give free
advice.....some of which, to be sure, is worth what you pay for
it.....but you'll be amazed at how fast you learn to smell bad
smells.. And the great thing about building your own is that it is
inherently a slow process.....plenty of time to learn as you go. The
cardinal rule is research, research, research; then set a realisitic
time frame (well within the lifespan of the typical do-it-yourself
newby), then double that (still eminently doable), and then go on the
shopping spree of a lifetime at the local equivalent of The Home
Depot, Lowes, or what have you.

Wolfgang
shopping details offered free of charge on request.