Building a new home question

[JakieBear]

Hello Deb;
I'm a licensed Architect and Builder and am in the process of moving to Laclede, Missouri from Pennsylvania.
Back at hand;
First you have to ask the following, where do i live, maybe in a area that has a past of Tornado Outbreaks on record ?
Why do i need this or a Basement ? ( For extra Space ? )
For an seperate area for heating elements ?
If for example the later being it, meaning want the heating elements out of the area;
Since there is not a basement then you can add a concrete storm cellar to the rear of the home, like if you wanted to put in a Longwood Furnace Location, it depends if this is going to be the primary source of heat for said property or supplemental heat !

If your in Tor. Alley, your better off in a Hole, build a baasement !

But again, first you and your husband have to sit down and weigh the Pro's and Con's and be realistic, the economy is shot, what are your plans for this house and how long are you going to stay in said ?

Hope this helps;
JB

[debbie63367]

Thank you again, for all of your replies The compromise is a 1200 sf main level, (living room, kitchen, master bedroom & bath), and a walk-out basement. We're not sure how to do the mud room. I do not want to downsize on the main level rooms, but the mud room needs to there somehow. Maybe, on a slab, just off the kitchen?

[Lake Junkie]

Debbie,

Just be sure, if you've decided on a walkout basement plan, that you put the laundry on the main level. Partly for re-sale value... You may think you're going to stay there forever, but Shadowcaver's point is a good one: plans change and you will be very glad if you don't build in some glaring objection to re-sale! My dad was a builder and I'm working with several people who are building their first home. It can be a very difficult time, but it sounds like you're getting in the habit of compromise so you should do well!