Buying land feels like the first step toward your dream home—but in many cases, it’s smarter to choose your house plan first. At Peer House Design, we’ve seen countless clients fall in love with a piece of land only to discover later that their ideal home doesn’t fit the site, the budget, or the regulations.

When people ask, “How much does it cost to build a house?” the honest answer is: it depends—mostly on decisions you control.

At Peer House Design, we work with homeowners and builders every day who are trying to balance design, budget, and long-term value. The biggest misconception? That square footage alone determines cost. In reality, a handful of design and site choices drive construction costs far more than size.

Here’s what truly affects the cost to build—and how to make smarter decisions early.

If you’re looking to add value, generate rental income, or create flexible living space, you’ve likely come across two popular options: duplexes and ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units). While both can be excellent investments, they serve different goals, budgets, and property types.

Sloped lots often get overlooked by buyers who assume they’re “too complicated” or “too expensive” to build on. In reality, the right house plan can turn a slope into one of your home’s greatest assets—unlocking better views, more light, and flexible living space.

At Peer House Design, we regularly design plans specifically intended to work with the land, not against it. Here’s how to choose the best house plan for a sloped lot—and why these sites can offer incredible value.

For decades, residential development in the U.S. has largely followed a binary model: single-family homes on one end, large apartment complexes on the other. But communities, developers, and homebuyers alike are realizing there’s a critical gap between the two. That gap is where missing-middle housing lives—and it’s quickly becoming one of the most important solutions to today’s housing challenges.

Investing in residential real estate continues to be one of the most reliable paths to long-term wealth—and well-designed duplexes are at the top of the list. At Peer House Design LLC, we specialize in architect-designed duplex and investor-friendly house plans that balance market appeal, build efficiency, and profitability.

Barndominiums — or “barndos” — have gained popularity in recent years as a unique alternative to traditional homes. With their wide-open interiors, rustic charm, and metal exteriors, it’s easy to see why they’ve caught the attention of homeowners looking for something different.

In the building industry, time is money. Every day a project sits idle is a day lost in revenue potential. At Peer House Design LLC, we understand that builders can’t afford unnecessary delays — which is why our house plans are designed to help you move from concept to construction faster than ever.

Cabins have long been a symbol of retreat, relaxation, and connection with nature. Today’s homeowners are bringing that rustic charm into modern living, combining traditional cabin aesthetics with efficient, contemporary layouts. At Peer House Design, we’ve developed cabin plans that offer cozy comfort, functional designs, and timeless appeal—perfect for vacation getaways or year-round living.

Modern style homes continue to capture the imagination of today’s homeowners with their sleek lines, open floor plans, and functional spaces. At Peer House Design, we’ve curated a collection of modern house plans that prioritize both design and livability. Whether you’re looking for a minimalist retreat or a spacious family home, modern style offers the perfect balance of form and function.

For decades, the ranch style home has been a favorite among homeowners—and for good reason. Known for its single-story living, open layouts, and timeless curb appeal, the ranch style continues to evolve with modern design trends while staying true to its roots. At Peer House Design, we’ve developed ranch style plans that are both practical and stylish, making them ideal for today’s homeowners.

The modern farmhouse continues to be one of the most popular design styles for homeowners across the country. Its perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary comfort makes it both timeless and practical. At Peer House Design, we’ve created a collection of modern farmhouse plans that fit today’s lifestyles—whether you’re looking for cozy simplicity or spacious layouts for a growing family.

When you’re building a new home, staying within budget doesn’t mean sacrificing style. At Peer House Design LLC, we believe good design should be both affordable and beautiful. These five budget-friendly house plans deliver smart layouts, stylish details, and lasting value—all without breaking the bank.

When it comes to home design, bigger isn’t always better. At Peer House Design LLC, we specialize in small house plans that live large — offering smart layouts, open spaces, and features that make every square foot count.

When designing your dream home, garage placement is more than just an afterthought — it plays a key role in your home’s curb appeal, function, and flow. At Peer House Design LLC, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners customize house plans to fit their lifestyle, and garage placement is one of the top design choices that can impact your day-to-day life and long-term satisfaction.

At Peer House Design, every plan has a purpose—and Plan #83 was designed with simplicity, efficiency, and comfort in mind. This plan was born out of a challenge we often hear from homeowners and builders alike: “We want something modest, functional, and beautiful—without wasting space or breaking the bank.”

House plans can feel a bit like a foreign language if you’re not used to looking at them. Lines, symbols, dimensions—what does it all mean? Whether you’re planning your dream home or reviewing designs with a builder, learning how to read a house plan will help you make confident, informed decisions. Here’s a simple guide to help you read a house plan like a pro.

Whether you're developing a single custom home or launching an entire subdivision, pre-designed plans from Peer House Design LLC provide a smart solution to keep your projects moving forward.

At Peer House Design LLC, we believe great design should be accessible—without blowing your budget. Whether you're building your forever home or a stylish starter, smart planning and thoughtful choices can help you stretch every dollar while still achieving a home that reflects your taste and lifestyle.

Buying a house plan online is an exciting step toward building your dream home — but it’s also a decision that comes with big implications. At Peer House Design LLC, we specialize in pre-designed house plans that blend architectural quality with practicality.