Avoid common mistakes and plan with confidence If you’re thinking of building a custom home, you’ve probably come across conflicting advice about where to start. Should you hire a builder first or work with a designer? Should you get full plans before talking to contractors? Is cost-plus or fixed-price better? I’ve seen these questions come up often online, and the answers can be confusing, especially for first-time builders. Here’s a clear, practical guid, rooted in real-world experience, to help you move forward with confidence and avoid common (and costly) mistakes when planning your custom home. DO: Start With a Realistic Budget Before hiring anyone, you need a clear sense of…