What to Bring - First Meeting

CONGRATULATIONS!  You’ve officially began walking the path of your dreams!

During our Initial New Home Design Meeting, we’ll be discussing the vision you see for your New Home.  We’ll also be determining the scope of your project so we can create an accurate proposal for you. 
 
It’s important that we get started on the right foot and plan ahead to get the most out of our time together.
 
The following is a list of items to PREPARE AHEAD OF TIME that will expedite the process of designing your dream home.  If any topic does not apply to you then just skip it.
*If you need help obtaining these documents, please do not hesitate
to reach out.  We’re here to support you through the entire process.
1) Budget Goals
  • Be prepared to share your budget goals.
  • The budget is the first piece of the puzzle in creating your new home.
  • It is absolutely necessary in determining the size and level of detail that will go into the design.
  • Clarity on your budget BEFORE the initial consultation will yield in clarity for design and financial savings for you in the long run.  You do not want to waste time and money for designs that could potentially far exceed your budget.
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​2) Site Survey with Topographical Information 
  • We cannot begin the design process without a site survey.  It shows boundary lines, setback lines, north arrow, and any easements that may be encroaching on your building site.
  • The slope of your property is also imperative to the home design.  This will determine the possibility for a basement/lower level and whether or not your lot will require retaining walls.​​
3) Well and Septic Permit
  • If your property does NOT connect to City or County Water and Sewer your home will need to be designed to adhere to the County Environmental Health Departments approved well and septic locations. 
  • The Well and Septic permit tells us the number of bedrooms approved for your site within the setback limitations, and the potential location(s) where the home can be placed on the site.
  • If issues arise with the proposed location or number of bedrooms permitted, a soil scientist with septic design qualifications can design a resolution.
  • If your property DOES have access to connect to City or County Water and Sewer you will not need an Environmental Health Department permit for designing your home.​
4) Project Goals
  • Be prepared to share all goals you have for the property.
  • Have clarity on your must-haves and dealbreakers.

5) Homeowner Association’s Architectural Guidelines (if applicable)
  • If your property is located within a subdivision, there will be limits to the potential for your home design.  Approval of your plans by the HOA will need to be obtained prior to construction.

6) Scrapbook (digital or otherwise)
  • Be prepared to share your scrapbook of inspirational photos, images, and notes.  
  • Houzz Ideabooks is a great place to start.  Click HERE to get started.  
  • Pinterest is another great resource.  Click HERE to create a Pinterest page.

7) Sketches (if you have them, though not necessary)
  • Bring any idea sketches you may have created yourself or acquired elsewhere.
  • If acquired elsewhere, you will need to obtain a written release of copyright from the intellectual property owner.

8) Be prepared to tell us all about you and your life.
  • The more we get to know you the better we will be able to create a design specific to your unique life.
  • There are numerous questions related to this in the New Home Design Questionnaire.​
9) Have questions ready that you would like to discuss.
  • Ask us anything that’s on your mind.  We understand that a new home project is a huge undertaking.  You’re likely to have many questions throughout the process.  We’re here to share our resources and help you find the answers you need.
After the initial meeting we, at Pippin Home Designs, will review all that you shared with us and compile a project proposal.  This proposal will be sent to you via email.
 
Once you’ve decided to move forward with us and have signed the proposal, you will need to fill out the New Home Design Questionnaire.  The questionnaire is designed to cover all bases and allows you to communicate EVERYTHING that’s important to you; how you live, how you want to live, your passions, preferences, needs, and goals.  This document, along with your scrapbook, will become the reference guide for your entire Team to create your new home design.
 
Printing out and reviewing the New Home Design Questionnaire before your initial meeting is recommended though not required.  Print the questionnaire HERE.

Our Award-Winning Homes with a View are always You-Inspired for Joyful Living!  Give us a call or email us today!

More Insights Library Links

New Home Design Questionnaire
Overview of Pippin's New Home Services
How to Choose a Residential Designer
Who's Who: Residential Designer, Architect, and Interior Designer?
A Team Approach: Key to Home Creation Success & Savings
Pippin IMPACT Homes: Intentionally Maximizing Performance, Adaptability, and Comfort for Tomorrow

You-Inspired for Joyful Living

Award-Winning Homes with a View

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