Should I Buy Land or Create Floor Plan First?

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Are you dreaming about building a custom home in the near future, but you have no clue if you should buy your land OR create your floor plan first? You aren’t alone … this is a common question. My (very) short answer is to choose your land before you create your floor plan. Keep reading to […]

Aug

10

Podcast

How to Determine Cost to Build a House

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One of my blog readers recently asked me, “is there a way to find out what the average construction cost per sq ft would be?” I’ll share my answer below about how to determine the cost to build a house but first, it’s important to note that there are MANY variables that come into play […]

Aug

02

Podcast

Things wish I had known before building house

9 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Building a House

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Things wish I had known before building house

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If you’re building a home (or planning to build), you’re probably worried about the typical things … you know, like staying on budget or making the right design decisions. But guess what?  There are MANY other things you might not even realize you NEED to think about until you are already in the thick of […]

Jul

26

Podcast

Building a Home in 2022: What you CAN Control

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Are you planning on building a home in 2022? If so, I imagine you’re feeling a little freaked out by the uncertainty and volatility in the current home-build market.  Believe me … you are NOT alone! I hear this fear OFTEN from my blog readers as well as students in my private ‘Before You Build’ […]

Jul

26

Podcast

Should You Build a Custom Home in 2022?

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Have you been dreaming about building a home for years and you were kinda hoping that 2022 would be your year to build a custom home? Maybe now you’re feeling a little confused about whether this is actually a good time to build given the current home build climate (which let’s just be real … […]

Jul

26

Podcast

Before You Build: Podcast Trailer

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Welcome to the Before You Build Podcast. I am so thrilled you’re here. If you are dreaming of building a custom home in the future or you’re ready to start planning right now, this show is for you!  The Before You Build Podcast is your one-stop shop for actionable home-building tips as well as advice […]

Jul

17

Podcast

hey there,

I designed my own custom home from the ground up, inside and out. A home that is cozy, comfy, laid out perfectly for the way my family lives, and makes us happy every single day. Oh, and did I mention I did this all without going over budget?! 

Yep, it’s true. I’ve been there, done that, and actually lived through it … and you will too. Pinkie promise!

a.k.a. Caroline on Design

I’m Carrie Barker.

DREAMING OF BUILDING A                   HOME BUT AREN’T SURE WHERE TO START?

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Home Build Prep Guide

yes! I need this!

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