Understand the costs and complexities of log homes and timber buildings

Before beginning a timber framed construction project, understand that the charm and appeal of log homes comes with a price. Timber construction is generally more time-consuming and costly than other construction methods, but as any log house manufacturer will attest, the end result is well worth it. Timber frame construction companies and craftsmen invest a lot of effort and skill in customizing, fabricating, and erecting a log home. Some experts estimate that the cost of the frame for a log home or building represents only one-third of the total cost of the home, which will include utilities, electrical work, plumbing, and other labor costs.

I recommend: Determine your budget and be mindful of the project's total cost.  If you're borrowing money to finance your log home or building, consider getting pre-qualified for a mortgage.  Some financial institutions specialize in financing log building projects -- among others, American Home Bank's American Log Mortgage division and M&T Bank's System Built Home Financing Plan are two options worth considering.

Choose a site and design for your log home or building project

Given the complexities of timber construction, you'll do well to invest your time up-front in careful selection of a site and an overall design for your building. At this stage, don't worry about the exact design, but you should have a general idea of the type of home, and it should work well with your selected site and budget.

I recommend: Good log home construction sites provide enough space for the desired building and also must be accessible by the construction crews.  A flat topography is ideal, as hills, slopes, and rocky areas can complicate construction.  Also make sure the site will allow the necessary room for utilities. If the landscape doesn't work with your desired home style, know that your timber construction company can likely work around any minor oddities by modifying the plans -- but you'll need to discuss this with your contractor well in advance.

For the early stages of choosing a design, many manufacturers offer sophisticated online tools.  A good one is available from log house manufacturer InTheWoods.  Another source for log home plans from many manufacturers is Log Home Plans.com.  Many of these companies are happy to customize their plans or even offer the services of an architect to design completely unique plans just for you.

Choose the right timber construction company and contractors: Manage it yourself, or hire it out

There are many reputable timber construction companies to choose from, but not all companies will manage all of the construction tasks. Some companies specialize in design, while others are log cabin builders or timber frame builders who specialize in erecting timber frame homes and buildings on site. And still other companies will manage entire projects, from design to construction of log homes and including managing other construction contractors. Based on your construction experience and interest in being hands-on in the project, decide on which approach is right for you.

I recommend: Browse listings of timber construction companies in online directories like the American Institute of Timber Construction (AITC) , the Log Homes Council and the Log Home Design Directory to determine which companies best meet your needs.  Before making a decision, call several companies to discuss their services and their experience with timber construction.