Cottage house plans range from simple to elaborate. Before you choose plans for your bungalow, decide what you will use it for. If it is going to be a vacation home, you may want a smaller cottage-style house than the home you live in. Where the small house is going to be located can also be a factor, as many areas have laws prohibiting certain types of structures. Your budget can also determine the size, style, and features of this home.
Decide what your cottage-style house is going to be used for. Think about how many people will stay in it as well. If it is a full-time residence, you will want to make sure there are enough bedrooms for everyone in the family. Cottage house plans can be modified for guest quarters or vacation homes to allow for sleeping space in common areas such as the living room or kitchen.
Find out a little bit about the building codes in your area. These often determine the type of home you are allowed to build. Ask your local zoning committee if there are any restrictions on size or design. If you plan to add a fireplace, find out if there are any statutes prohibiting this.
It is very important to develop a budget for your small house. Visit your local financial institution and ask them to pre-approve you for a mortgage. That way you will know how much you can afford to spend on a bungalow, and can choose cottage house plans that are within your means.
Decide what features you would like the house to have. Think about whether you want a porch, built-in shelving, or elaborate kitchen cabinets. Make a list of the most important features so you can be sure to find cottage house plans that include these things.
Compare different materials for the exterior of your small house. Clapboard and stone are generally good choices if you want an English-style cottage. If you want a rustic cottage, think about constructing one that resembles a log cabin. An English cottage might be more appropriate for urban areas, while a log cabin could be ideal for a rural location.
The process of building a cottage-style house can be stressful, especially if you have never had a home built before. Since it is a major investment, it is very important to choose the right cottage house plans for your budget and tastes. Be sure to do plenty of research and ask many questions throughout the process.