You've thought about it and now you're doing it, you're building your own home. It is an exciting decision to make. Being able to choose, plan and live in a home that fits your personality is a dream for many, but now you are making that visions come true.

Are you stepping down this path for the first time? Like anything, the process can be tricky and there are many important details to consider as you get started.

Have you decided on a style of home yet? If you need inspiration go to open houses or remember what you like about the design of your friends' and neighbours' homes. Make notes. If there is an interesting detail or feature, write it down so that it doesn't get forgotten during the excitement of building.

Where you will build is very important too. If you already own the land you plan to build on, your options may be more open than if you are building in an established subdivision. Many subdivision developers have restrictions called "covenants" which may force you to build a house of a certain size or style. They may limit where you place your home on the lot, who you can choose to build your home, even what colour it is when finished. These covenants are in place to assure that all the homes in the area are worth about the same and this will protect the value of your investment in later years. Remember htat this is an investment and even if this is you dream home, there may come a day that you will have to sell it. Protecting your investment as you begin will help ensure its value in later years.