How to Shop for a Log Home
The idea of living in a charmingly rustic log home with modern conveniences is an appealing option for many people. Whether your dream home is in a wooded area, next to a lake or river, or in a gated community, living in one creates a sense of connection with nature and the elements. In addition, log homes can be very energy efficient and not only save you money but are good for the environment. Log homes are becoming increasingly popular as retirement, vacation and even primary homes, but shopping for one is different than shopping for a stick-built home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Log Home Essentials
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Carefully choose the land for your log home. Whether you are buying an existing home or building, be realistic about your choice in land. Cyndi Daves of CENTURY 21 Foxfire Realty Group in Murphy, North Carolina, suggests that you consider your choices wisely. While it may seem very romantic to live on top of a mountain with a dirt road as the only access, it may not be practical on a daily basis. Daves also says that the value of the land is critical. Building a relatively inexpensive log home on expensive land will hurt resale possibilities. Also consider access to electrical lines, sewage and water. All these costs add up.
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Decide on the type of package you want if you are building. Log homes are available in many designs from turn-key completely finished homes to shells that need all internal components. If you are handy, you may want to consider finishing the home yourself after basic construction, as this will save you money as well. However, if your budget allows, a turn-key home offers the convenience of moving in right away with no finishing worries.
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Choose the type of logs from which you want your home built. Although there are dozens of choices, tongue-in-groove D logs, dove-tail, and full round logs are popular choices. If you like a flat log interior, consider D logs. Dove-tail logs have a tight, neat appearance especially at the corners. Full round logs are traditional, but many need periodic chinking or caulking.
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Decide whether you want a basement. If you are building near a waterway, check with local builders about flooding, and some mountain locations are difficult to build basements in because of rockiness. However, Daves says that building a basement into the slope of a hill can give you extra room as well as add insulation.
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Be aware of insects native to the area. Contemporary log homes can be treated for a number of insect problems and most are environmentally friendly. However, know the problems common for your area such as termites, pine beetles, and flat-head bores and seek the advice of professionals on how best to protect your home.
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Tips & Warnings
Make a list of the "extras" you want in your log home but be realistic. A wood-burning fireplace has charm, but a gas fireplace is less work.
Don't buy on a whim. It's easy to get carried away with the beauty of a log home but consider all of your needs and take your time.
Have fun. There is a certain amount of whimsy involved with a log home, and although the practical considerations are essential, don't forget to take pleasure in choosing your new home.
