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Step 1
Choose the right program for your needs. Someone who is planning to add a pass-through between the kitchen and dining room does not need a program that is as complex as someone planning to add a bedroom on the back of the house. You should read reviews of programs and check out their capabilities to get the one that works best for you.
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Step 2
Understand how to measure. While it seems like a simple concept, it is something that do-it-yourselfers often mix up. Measure from end to end in each room and check appliance installation to see how much space you'll need.
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Step 3
Allow the program to guide your beginning steps. Most programs will have some sort of wizard or start-up. Answer these questions and consider letting template portions of the program help you out. You may be able to use a "kitchen" feature, for example, that asks you about appliances and include them in your designs.
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Step 4
Check out the features you'll need. Some programs, despite how carefully you select them, will have features that you do not need. On others, you may need to turn features on. Some home design software has features for adding in electrical and plumbing lines, but you may need to indicate this for each design that needs this work.
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Step 5
Experiment. Home design software has a number of interesting features, such as the ability to 3D model the designs. Try out these features to get the full effect of using the software. You may come up with problems with your design using new features, and that can save you time and money down the road.
