3D house

I've been playing with Google Sketchup to try and get a feel for what our new house will look like.  If you haven't tried it, it's the best free software out there.  Here are some snapshots:

We own dirt

We finally closed on our lot and construction loan on Wednesday.  We were nervous because the neighborhood has some architectural review board that needs to approve our plans.  Until last Friday we did not have the approval.  The builder had been trying for weeks to get it but once our realtor heard were were having trouble we received preliminary approval in a couple days.  He seems to have connections everywhere.  If anyone needs a good realtor in Ohio call Bryan Jarrett from Coldwell Banker.

Our Future Kitchen

We got the kitchen plans back from the cabinet maker.  Miranda is not sure the island is big enough, but I think it will be fine.  It's about the size of a piece of plywood.  The price actually came in cheaper than expected so perhaps we'll upgrade a few things.

Building with New England Homes Ohio

After an exhaustive interview process with 4 builders we finally decided to go with New England Homes Ohio (www.newenglandhomesohio.com).  We picked them for two reasons.  First we really liked the ranch floor plan they offered and second, we were more comfortable working with a small builder that would hopefully give us more personal attention and quality workmanship.  We'll see how that theory works out.