Explore every episode of the podcast The Before You Build Podcast

Most people think planning a home starts with floor plans, Pinterest boards, and picking out beautiful finishes. But what if that's actually the wrong place to start?

The most important decisions happen long before you ever choose a countertop or paint color.

In this episode, I'm sharing the three things I believe everyone should consider before building, renovating, or buying a home ... and why skipping them is the reason so many people end up unhappy with the final result.

If you're in the dreaming or planning stage, this episode will help you shift focus from the house itself and start creating a home that truly supports the life YOU want to live.

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/what-to-consider-before-building-a-house

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Most people assume designing a home you love starts with choosing finishes, fixtures, and paint colors ... but after unexpectedly buying an existing house, I realized what actually matters MOST.

(and yes ... considering I've spent years helping people build custom homes, this surprised me too! ) 😉

In this episode, I'm sharing the unexpected journey that led my husband and me to buy an existing home, plus the three foundational pieces you need to get right BEFORE you build, renovate, or buy a home.

Whether you're building from scratch, renovating, or buying an existing home, this episode might completely change the way you think about creating a home you'll love for years to come.

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/bought-existing-house

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Knowing what to clarify before building a custom home is one of the MOST important things you can do for your budget ... and yet it's one of the most overlooked parts of the entire process.

In fact, there's a specific layer of clarity that very few people talk about, even though it's one of the biggest reasons custom home projects go over budget.

In this episode, I'm breaking down what it actually means to be "ready" to build, why finish selections impact your budget more than most people realize, and the four finish categories you need to clarify before you ever request a quote from a builder.

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/what-to-clarify-before-building-a-custom-home

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

If you're trying to nail down the perfect white paint color for your home exterior, this episode is for you. 🙌

I actually created this list for a blog post back in 2020 — and when I went to update it recently, I realized that every single color on that list is still just as popular today as it was six years ago. These aren't trendy whites. They're timeless ones.

I actually have one of these white colors all over my own home interior … doors, trim, cabinets, ceilings, built-ins. I've been in my home almost 13 years, and I still love the color.

In this episode, we'll cover:

• My 6 favorite exterior white paint colors (including a brand-new 2026 addition!)
• Why warm whites are the most versatile choice for almost any home style
• My favorite mess-free way to test colors before you commit

Head to the show notes to see all six whites in action, plus grab links to order peel-and-stick samples so you can see exactly how they look on your home.

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/best-exterior-white-paint-colors

PAINT SAMPLES → (affiliate link) https://on.ltk.com/+2_jko6X3hyRqvn-8wjjMMg

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

When Joanne decided to tear down her family's lakefront cottage and rebuild on the same lot, she knew building a custom home on a small, waterfront lot was going to be anything but simple. So she joined BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ because she knew there would be a lot to think through before breaking ground.

In this episode she covers:

• Why she chose to tear down instead of renovate
• Permitting and building on a lakefront lot
• Designing vertically on a small footprint while planning for aging in place
• Staying within 5–10% of budget by negotiating and shopping vendors
• Catching a framing error mid-build — and why being on-site matters
• How an email trail saved her when a contractor "forgot" a conversation
• What she wishes she'd done sooner
• The emotional side of seeing finishes for the first time
• How BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ helped her walk in prepared and confident

Joanne's story is proof that the right preparation changes everything.

GET ALL THE BYB DETAILS → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

(and see Joanne's beautiful lake house in the show notes)

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/building-a-custom-home-on-family-property

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

I built my custom home back in 2013, and I genuinely love it. The layout is cozy, functional, and still works perfectly for my family over 12 years later.

However, there *are* a few things I'd do differently if I built this house again.

In this MVP episode, I'm sharing 5 things I wish I had included in our custom floor plan. Tune in because these are details most people don't think about until after they've moved in, and by then, it's too late.

Note: This episode was originally recorded in 2022, but the content is 100% still relevant — and I've updated the blog post with additional tips and resources.

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/wish-i-included-in-my-custom-floor-plan

FREE FLOOR PLAN WORKBOOK → carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

In this episode, I'm answering a question I got from someone in my free on-demand class, and honestly, it was SO good I had to share it with everyone.

We're talking about how to create a realistic budget before you ever sit down with a builder — so that when you do get a quote, it actually means something.

I walk you through:

• Why your vision has to come before your numbers (and why skipping this step is so costly)
• How to identify your true financial comfort zone — not just your ceiling
• What most people forget to include in their total build budget
• How to research cost per square foot in your area so you walk in informed
• What a SPLURGE + SAVE PLAN℠ is and how having one changes everything about that first builder conversation

If you're in the planning phase right now, this episode is for you. It's the kind of prep work that makes a builder meeting actually productive — and sets you up to stay on budget from the very start.

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/custom-home-budget-before-builder-meeting

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

If you're building a home (or planning to build), you're probably worried about the typical things … you know, like staying on budget or making the right design decisions. But guess what?

There are MANY other things you might not even realize you NEED to think about until you are already in the thick of building your home. Don't worry ... I've got you covered with a list of 9 things I wish I had known before building a house.

Note: This episode was recorded in 2022, but the content is still 100% relevant today! I updated the blog post with additional tips and resources in May 2026.

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/known-before-building

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Going over budget when building a custom home isn't inevitable. It does happen often, but it is NOT inevitable. One of the biggest causes is not knowing how to prioritize your home build budget.

In this episode, I'm talking about one of the most important things you can do before you break ground … and that is to get crystal clear on YOUR family's priorities so you know exactly where to splurge and save throughout your entire build.

I'm sharing the simple two-part framework I use with my clients, a personal story from my own build that perfectly illustrates why knowing your priorities BEFORE building changes everything, and everything you need to know about my brand new SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ — the tool I honestly believe should be in the hands of EVERY SINGLE PERSON building or renovating a home.

Because here's the truth … you don't need an unlimited budget, you just need to know YOUR priorities. 🙌

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/how-to-prioritize-your-home-build-budget

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Going over budget is one of the biggest fears I hear from people building a custom home. But here's what I want you to know … 

It is possible to build within, or very close to, your budget. It all comes down to knowing where YOU should splurge and where YOU should save when building.

In this episode, I break down my simple two-rule framework for deciding where to splurge and save when building. I also share some of the best areas (in general) to invest and cut back … and why a generic list will only get you so far.

Tune in to learn my simple framework, and to find out exactly how to build your very own personalized SPLURGE + SAVE PLAN around YOUR family's priorities.

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/where-to-splurge-and-save-when-building

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Have you ever driven past a house and thought, something just looks off — but you couldn't quite put your finger on it? I see it all the time. And it's not just on low-cost homes … I see it on multi-million-dollar homes too.

It's not a budget problem. It's a gap in the design process that SO many people miss completely.

In this episode, I'm breaking down why some custom home exteriors end up looking awkward, and the one simple thing that prevents it. I'm also sharing my own personal story — including the moment I saw my home exterior in 3D for the first time and seriously hated it. 😬 

If you're in the planning stages of your custom home build, tune into this one ... you'll be SO glad you did!

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/custom-home-exterior-regrets

MY 3D RENDERING → carolineondesign.com/custom-home-build-must-do

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Feeling overwhelmed just thinking about building a home is one of the most common things I hear from people planning a custom build. And, honestly, it makes complete sense. You're making hundreds of high-stakes decisions you've never had to make before, on a timeline that's largely outside of your control, with A LOT of money on the line.

In this episode, I'm sharing what I've been learning from my business coach about balance — and why every single principle applies directly to your home build experience. Here's what we're covering:

• Why the chaos isn't actually the problem
• The two types of overwhelm you'll face during a build (and how to handle both)
• What you can do right now to feel more prepared and less reactive going into your build

You're going to be okay. Promise. 🙌

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/overwhelmed-building-a-home

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

After auditing 300+ floor plans, I can tell you this: the same mistakes keep showing up. And they're not dramatic design flaws — they're subtle oversights that are easy to miss on paper but noticeable every single day once you're living in your home.

In episode 106, I'm sharing the four most common floor plan patterns I see that lead to daily frustration and regrets — so you can catch them before construction begins.

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/common-floor-plan-mistakes

FREE FLOOR PLAN WORKBOOK → carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

If you're planning on building a custom home, rising construction costs are likely scaring you a little bit … and I totally get that!

You might be wondering … Should we wait? Will prices come down? Will next year be a better time to build?

These are completely normal thoughts, and you're not alone.

But here's what most people don't fully think through … construction costs rarely drop in a meaningful, lasting way. 

So instead of asking yourself, "Will it be cheaper to build if we wait?", the better question is: "Is now the right time for us to build, given our budget, our goals, and our level of preparation?"

In this episode, I'm walking you through whether waiting actually helps, and the specific questions to ask your builder to protect your budget, no matter what the market is doing.

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/rising-construction-costs

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

After living in my custom home for 12+ years, I've learned exactly what makes a kitchen truly functional versus just pretty.

In this episode, I'm sharing 9 tips for designing a functional kitchen, including:

• Why you need at least 42" of walking space around your island
• The placement trick that makes everyday tasks so much easier
• Why a butler's pantry and coffee bar are at the TOP of my list for my next home
• Two things I'd change about my current kitchen after 12+ years

The most beautiful kitchen won't make you happy if it doesn't work for how your family actually lives.

This episode gives you real-life lessons so you can design a kitchen that makes your daily life easier—not more frustrating.

FREE FLOOR PLAN WORKBOOK → carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/9-tips-for-designing-a-functional-kitchen

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Clients and podcast listeners ask me the same question over and over: "What would YOU change if you built your home again?"

After living in my custom home for almost 13 years (and now planning my NEXT build), I've really been thinking about my answer to this question.

I don't have any regrets, but there ARE some tweaks I would make.

In this episode, I'm sharing four things I'd change if I built again, and four things I would NEVER change.

We cover:

• Why separate primary closets are at the TOP of my list (for my next house)
• The exact kitchen island size I wish I had (and why I had to forego it)
• How combining my mudroom and laundry room seemed smart on paper, but doesn't work in real life
• The one thing I added to my daughters' closets but forgot to add to my own (oops!) 😳
• PLUS, four things I got 100% right and would never change

Thankfully, we took the time to plan strategically BEFORE we built, so none of these are actual regrets—they're just small things I'd tweak next time.

This is what I want for YOU too. 

This episode gives you my real-life lessons learned so you can make smarter floor plan decisions NOW—before they become permanent.

FREE FLOOR PLAN WORKBOOK: carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook
EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/change-if-built-my-home-again

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Wondering what you need to know before building a custom home?

In this episode, I'm answering the most common questions I hear from first-time custom home builders—the practical stuff you need to know BEFORE you start.

You'll learn what the first step actually is (hint: it's NOT interviewing builders!), why you need a crystal clear vision before you ever get a quote, when the right time to start planning is (way earlier than you think!), and the two BIG mistakes that almost always lead to budget overages and regrets.

Plus, I'm breaking down why planning 6-12 months ahead is your secret weapon for staying close to budget and loving your finished home. 🙌

If you're just dreaming about building or actively interviewing builders, this episode gives you the roadmap to avoid the mistakes that cost people tens of thousands of dollars (or more 😳).

🎉 BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ enrollment is open RIGHT NOW through Monday, February 9th!  🎉 Get all the details at carolineondesign.com/before-you-build 

EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/what-to-know-before-building-a-custom-home

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

First-time custom home build advice from a REAL family who just moved into their brand new home. 

Patrick and Jessica share their real experience going through BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ and how this program helped them build with confidence.

In this episode, we cover:

• How they vetted and found their amazing custom home builder
• How they designed for how THEIR family actually lives 
• Why you don't need to be a design expert to make great home decisions
• What mattered most to THEIR family 
• How they managed a custom home build from three hours away
• How BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ worked in tandem with their builder
• Their real budget outcome (and WHY)
• Their top advice for anyone planning a custom home build

Patrick and Jessica are living proof that the right preparation leads to confident building decisions—even when unexpected costs pop up.

Ready to Follow the Same Framework?

You can follow the exact same step-by-step framework Patrick and Jessica used. Enrollment for BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ opens February 2nd and closes February 9th. 

JOIN BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build 😘

But first, join me for my FREE live training where I'm teaching the "4 Steps to Build Within Budget and Without Regrets." It's happening Monday, February 2nd at 10:00 am Central Time.

GRAB YOUR FREE SEAT → carolineondesign.com/free-training

EPISODE → carolineondesign.com/first-time-custom-home-build-advice

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Nine out of ten custom homes go over budget. 😳

If you're wondering WHY, this episode will show you exactly what's happening—and how to avoid it.

I'm breaking down the real reasons most builds go 10-20% (or more!) over budget. 

You'll learn why that initial builder quote is NOT what your home will actually cost, the exact moment most people start blowing their budget (before construction even starts!), and what the 1 in 10 who stay on budget do differently.

Plus, I'm sharing Mare's story—one of my clients who came in $6,500 UNDER budget while getting everything she wanted. 💪

If you're about to build, this episode gives you the roadmap to be one of the rare few who build on budget and love their home—no regrets, no financial stress.

🎉 FREE TRAINING! 🎉  Monday, February 2nd at 10 am CT → "4 Steps to Build Your Dream Home Within Budget and Without Regrets!" 

FREE TRAINING: carolineondesign.com/free-training

EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/why-custom-homes-go-over-budget

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Choosing the right builder can make or break your entire home-building experience, so you want to be SURE you're choosing the RIGHT builder.

In this episode, I'm sharing the three most important questions to ask home builders during interviews. These aren't the typical questions you'll find online. These are the questions that will save you time, stress, and thousands of dollars.

You'll learn exactly what to listen for in their answers, how to spot red flags, and the one step most people skip that reveals everything you need to know about a builder. Plus, I'll walk you through how to make your final decision using both data AND your gut instinct.

If you're interviewing builders (or about to start), this episode will give you the confidence to choose the right partner for your project.

EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/questions-to-ask-home-builders

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Building a home in 2026? There's ONE question you need to ask yourself that will reveal whether you're truly ready—or just winging it.

In this episode, I'm breaking down the difference between "planning" (aka browsing Pinterest) and ACTUALLY being prepared for your build.

You'll hear a real example from clients who showed up so prepared that their builder and electrician were blown away.

Plus, I'm sharing what strategic planning actually looks like—it's way simpler than you think and way more powerful.

If you've been thinking, "I'll figure it out later," this episode is your wake-up call to start NOW.

Want to feel confident and prepared for your build? Join the waitlist for BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ at carolineondesign.com/before-you-build. Doors open February 2nd!

EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/building-a-home-2026

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

You might think your floor plan is done once the room sizes are sketched out. But here's what most first-time builders don't realize ... you can't really know if those dimensions work until you see how your actual furniture fits in each space.

In this episode, I'm sharing a tool I discovered (and tested with my own money) that helps you visualize furniture in your floor plan before you build. 

We'll talk through why this step matters so much, how to make layout decisions with confidence instead of guessing, and how this platform can save you from expensive mistakes.

You'll learn why testing furniture placement matters and how the right tool can help you feel confident about your room sizes before your builder breaks ground.

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/visualize-furniture-in-your-floor-plan

FREE FLOOR PLAN WORKBOOK: carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

The next time you host (or attend) a gathering (whether it's Thanksgiving next week 😉, a birthday party, or just family visiting for the weekend), you're sitting on free research for your custom home planning. 

In this episode, I'm showing you how to turn those hosting moments into valuable insights about what you actually need in your future home.

You'll learn:

• The specific questions to ask yourself while hosting (or visiting someone else's home)
• What to observe about kitchen layout, traffic flow, and entertaining spaces
• How to translate real-life frustrations into must-haves for your floor plan
• Why these observations matter more than anything you'll find on Pinterest

This works whether you're the host or the guest. These real-life insights reveal what really matters when you're designing a home you'll love living in.

...

EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/custom-home-planning

FREE FLOOR PLAN QUESTIONNAIRE: carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Planning to build a custom home? Lighting and electrical planning is one of the most important (and most overlooked) parts of the design process. And here's the thing ... it's not something you can figure out "later." It needs to happen before your electrician shows up on site and your walls go up.

In this episode, I'm talking to Jenn Smith, a licensed residential architect with over 20 years of experience helping families navigate the custom home process. Jenn specializes in one of the most overlooked yet transformative parts of design: lighting and electrical planning.

We're covering the biggest mistakes homeowners make (like waiting too long to plan), how to future-proof your home with smart electrical decisions, where to splurge and where to save on fixtures, and the exact spots you'll wish you'd added more outlets and switches.

...

🔗 SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/lighting-and-electrical-planning

🎙 JENN SMITH RESOURCES:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/jennsmitharchitect
• Website: www.jennsmitharchitect.com
• Free Checklist: Lighting & Electrical Checklist 

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Building a custom home? You've probably heard this advice: "Whatever your builder quotes you, expect to pay 30 to 35 percent more."

Here's the truth: going over budget is NOT inevitable.

In this episode, I'm breaking down the real reason people blow their home build budget and showing you exactly how to avoid this happening to you. Spoiler alert: it has very little to do with unpredictable construction costs and everything to do with clarity.

I'll walk you through why vague planning leads to expensive surprises, what happens when you make decisions on the fly, and the specific steps my clients take to stay on budget (or even come in under!).

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why the "30% over budget" myth exists and why it's completely avoidable
• The real reason most people face major budget overages mid-build
• How to clarify your vision before breaking ground
• Why a 5-10% buffer is enough when you plan ahead (not 30%!)

Whether you're just starting to plan or already in conversations with builders, this episode will help you make smart, confident decisions that protect both your vision and your wallet. 🙌

 ...

🔗 EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/reason-people-blow-their-home-build-budget

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Curious what DesignShop IS ... and if it's worth it for your custom home build? In this episode, I'm sharing my honest review after ordering 13 different material samples – countertops, tile, cabinet hardware, wallpaper, and more.

I'll walk you through what I ordered, how much I spent, the sample quality, and whether DesignShop can actually help you make confident design decisions before you build.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What DesignShop is and how it works
• The real cost of ordering samples (and why it's worth it)
• Sample quality, size, and brand selection
• My honest pros and cons after testing the service
• Tips for using samples effectively in your home

This is NOT a sponsored episode – I paid for everything myself, and I'm giving you my unfiltered opinion. 😀

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SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/designshop-review

DESIGNSHOP™: rstyle.me/+2MSVa_R01PuMdwY0U84Nsw (affiliate link)

SAMPLIZE REVIEW: carolineondesign.com/peel-and-stick-paint-samples-review 

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Are you worried about going over budget on your custom home build? You're not alone—but what if I told you budget overruns aren't inevitable?

In this episode, I'm sharing the 3 biggest budget busters that cost home builders TENS OF THOUSANDS in overages (we're talking $15K-$50K+ mistakes!), plus my proven system to avoid them completely.

If you're tired of hearing "just expect to go 20% over budget" and want to build your dream home WITHOUT the financial stress, this episode is for you!

Ready to take control of your home build? Join BYB!👇

BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ enrollment closes Monday, 9/22/25 at 11:59 PM. Don't miss your final chance to join at the current price! Get all the details at carolineondesign.com/before-you-build.

SHOW NOTES: 

carolineondesign.com/home-build-budget-busters

Building your dream home doesn't have to mean blowing your budget. Let's plan it right from the start!

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Building a custom home with your spouse doesn't have to be stressful or dramatic. It can actually bring you closer together ... and I'm sharing exactly how to make that happen.

Learn the simple strategy that helped me get along great with my husband throughout our build and has helped hundreds of my clients build their dream homes without the drama.

Spoiler alert ... you don't need to agree on everything – you just need to respect what matters most to each other.

We'll cover:

✅ Why building together feels so overwhelming (and why that's totally normal) 

✅ The must-have strategy that eliminates most arguments before they start 

✅ Real examples from couples who nailed this approach 

✅ What to do when you can't afford all your combined must-haves

You'll walk away knowing how to honor both of your visions, stay within budget, and actually enjoy the building process together.

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/building-a-custom-home-with-your-spouse 

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Planning your custom home? Before you dive into Pinterest boards and floor plans, there's one crucial question that will determine whether you truly love your home for decades to come. In this episode, I'm sharing the most important consideration when planning your custom home ... and it's probably not what you think!

I'll explain why location matters more than design decisions, how to evaluate potential properties, and the real cost of getting this wrong. Plus, I'm sharing my own current location search and what I've learned in the process.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The #1 question to ask before planning any custom home
• Why you can't effectively design without knowing where you're building
• How to evaluate locations for long-term happiness
• The expensive mistakes that happen when you choose the wrong spot

Whether you're just starting to think about building or actively lot shopping, this episode will help you make confident location decisions you'll love for years to come.

Ready to plan your custom home with confidence? Download my FREE Custom Home Build Start Guide at carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide to get started!

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🔗 Episode Show Notes: carolineondesign.com/planning-your-custom-home

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Okay, real talk. Those generic "must-have" lists all over Pinterest and home-building blogs set you up to build a house that might have some cool features, but most likely won't even work for YOUR family's lifestyle.

In this episode, I'm spilling the truth about why there are NO universal must-haves when building a custom home, and I'm sharing the four questions that'll help you figure out what YOUR family actually needs (spoiler: it's probably way different than what those lists tell you).

We'll cover:

• Why that mudroom everyone's obsessing over might be completely pointless for your lifestyle
• Real stories from families who ignored the "rules" and built homes that actually work for them
• How to stop second-guessing yourself and create a must-have list based on your real life, not Pinterest dreams
• The difference between features that look amazing and ones that actually make your daily routine better

Bottom line ... this is YOUR custom home. YOU get to decide what goes in it based on what makes YOUR life easier and happier ... not what some blog says you "must" have.

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/custom-home-must-haves

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Building your first custom home should be exciting, but there's one massive mistake I see first-time builders make over and over again ... and it's costing them thousands of dollars and major regrets on move-in day.

In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what this critical mistake is and how you can completely avoid it with the right planning process.

You'll learn:

• The biggest custom home building mistake that sets everything else up for failure
• Why having Pinterest boards isn't the same as having a clear vision
• The real cost of this mistake (spoiler: it's way more than just money!)
• How to get crystal clear on your vision before you break ground

Plus, I'll share stories from my BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ clients like Sheri, who went from total panic to moving into her stunning dream home, and Mare, who came in $6,500 UNDER budget.

If you're planning to build a custom home, this episode could save you thousands in change orders and years of regret. Don't let this preventable mistake turn your dream home into an expensive lesson!

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/custom-home-building-mistake

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Feeling confused about construction loans? You're definitely not alone... and you're not the only one who finds this part of home building overwhelming.

In this episode, I'm breaking down how construction loans actually work so you can approach this part of your build with confidence instead of confusion.

Understanding construction loans is crucial to avoiding costly surprises and timeline issues that could derail your build.

We'll cover: 

✅ How construction loans work (and why they're different from regular mortgages) 

✅ Timeline requirements and what happens if your build goes over schedule 

✅ Down payment requirements and approval criteria 

✅ What to expect for payments, closing costs, and borrowing limits

You'll walk away understanding exactly how construction loans work and how to prepare so you can secure financing and stay on track with your build timeline.

Quick note: This isn't meant to replace professional lending advice—always connect with a qualified loan officer for guidance specific to your project!

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/how-construction-loans-work

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Not sure whether to hire an architect or a draftsperson for your custom home build? You’re not alone ... and you’re definitely not the only one confused by this decision.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the real differences between an architect and a draftsperson so you can make the smartest choice for your project, your budget, and your design needs.

Whether you’re looking to save money or you want a one-of-a-kind design, understanding your options is key to building a home you’ll love for decades (not one filled with regrets!).

We’ll cover:
✅ What each professional actually does (and how their roles are different)
✅  The cost difference between hiring an architect vs. a draftsperson
✅  A hybrid approach that could save you thousands (without sacrificing design)

You’ll walk away with clarity on who to hire, how much it might cost, and what support you can expect so you can move forward with confidence.

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/draftsperson-vs-architect

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Thinking about finishing your basement? Whether you're building a custom home or planning a future reno, this episode shares 3 simple custom basement details that are totally worth it—and easy to overlook.

From a clever built-in cooler to the one upgrade I’d do in every home from now on, I’m walking you through the little things we added that make our basement more functional, fun, and guest-friendly.

These aren’t just cool ideas—they’re practical, everyday features that you’ll be so glad you planned ahead for.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• How to add more light to a dark basement stairwell
• A built-in bar feature that takes entertaining to the next level
• The underrated upgrade that made finishing our basement stress-free

Whether you're building now or just dreaming, these custom basement ideas will help you create a space you’ll love to live in.

👀 Want to see this tips in action? Follow me on instagram.com/carolineondesign.

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/custom-basement-details

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

You might think building a confident home starts with picking finishes or trusting your builder to guide you. But here’s the truth most people don’t hear (until it’s too late): the real secret is planning—real, intentional planning—long before construction begins.

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it actually means to “plan ahead”. We’ll talk through the kind of behind-the-scenes decisions that make all the difference when it comes to building a home you truly love—and how skipping this step can leave you feeling rushed, overwhelmed, and full of regrets.

You’ll learn how to start your plan right now, even if you have no clue where to begin.

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/secret-to-a-confident-home-build

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Possibly you haven’t started building yet—but here’s a heads-up: at some point during your build, your builder’s going to say, “We can’t do that.”

Sometimes that “no” is legit. But other times? It’s just not standard.

In this episode, I’m walking you through a real story of a homeowner who dropped something she really wanted (and still regrets it 😳)—and how YOU can avoid the same fate. You’ll learn exactly what to say, what to ask, and how to advocate for the things that matter most… *before* you're caught off guard.

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/when-your-builder-says-no

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Feeling excited (yet OVERWHELMED!) about building your dream home? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong.

In this episode, I’m walking you through 3 simple mindset shifts that will help you approach your home build with more clarity and confidence. 

Before you dive into layouts and finishes, the real foundation for your entire home build experience starts with your mindset.

We’ll cover:
 🔑 Why your home should reflect your lifestyle, not just square footage
💰 How to think about your budget in a way that feels empowering (not limiting)
🏗️ Why YOU (not your builder) should be leading the design vision

These are the exact mindset shifts I walk my students through inside my BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ program—and they can be total game-changers in how you experience your custom build.

🎧 Tune in for some quick wins, helpful perspective, and a dose of encouragement to start your home-building journey off right!

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/before-you-build-your-home

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Building your dream home? You’ve probably spent hours planning the big things—your floor plan, kitchen design, and must-have features. But what about the small details that can make or break your home’s functionality?

In this episode, I’m sharing 15 commonly overlooked details that people building for the first time regret not doing—and how you can avoid them. From outlet placement mistakes to traffic flow issues and not adding enough windows, these are the things you’ll be so glad you planned for before you build!

🎧 Listen now to avoid costly mistakes and future home-building regrets!

SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/common-custom-home-oversights

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

(Updated this episode 4/15/26 ... now episode 109)

Going over budget is one of the biggest fears I hear from people building a custom home. But here's what I want you to know … 

It is possible to build within, or very close to, your budget. It all comes down to knowing where YOU should splurge and where YOU should save when building.

In this episode, I break down my simple two-rule framework for deciding where to splurge and save when building. I also share some of the best areas (in general) to invest and cut back … and why a generic list will only get you so far.

Tune in to learn my simple framework, and to find out exactly how to build your very own personalized SPLURGE + SAVE PLAN around YOUR family's priorities.

SHOW NOTES → carolineondesign.com/where-to-splurge-and-save-when-building

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

This episode is for anyone out there who is building a lake house and, more specifically, looking for trending exterior paint colors for lake houses in 2025.

I decided to record this episode because, ironically, a significant number of my clients inside BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ are planning to build a lake house. 

For some, it’s a secondary home, but for others, it will be their primary residence.

Either way, they obviously want to get their exterior colors RIGHT!

And hey … even if you aren’t planning to build a lake house, this episode will still be very helpful because the paint color palettes are popular for home exteriors in general in 2025.

And, be sure to check out the show notes for this episode so you can see some of these colors in action (in other words … you’ll find photos of the colors on my blog).

-

EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/trending-exterior-paint-colors-for-lake-houses
BLOG POST (4 STEPS TO CHOOSE PAINT COLOR): carolineondesign.com/steps-to-choose-a-paint-color
PEEL-AND-STICK PAINT SAMPLES (affiliate link): https://rstyle.me/+8h_YTkI3gg-JchgCAKrBhw

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Sticking to budget when building all starts with avoiding three common mistakes that I see people make ALL. THE. TIME. 

These mistakes can lead to significant budget overages (especially mistake #3!).

BUT … I’m not gonna let them happen to you!

These are all 100% avoidable ... and I'm so glad you’re listening to this episode so that you'll know exactly what to avoid.

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EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/mistakes-to-avoid-when-building-a-home

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

If you plan on building your dream home in 2025 (or 2026 or even 2027), you're in the right place!

I'm here to help YOU bring your dream home to life … within budget and without regrets. 😘

This podcast is a great place to start ...

The short, binge-able episodes are full of actionable home-build tips and advice to help you feel more confident as you prepare for, and build, your dream home.

And, if you want to dive deeper and work with me in 2025, I invite you to join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠. 🙌

Tune into this episode to learn ALL about how I can help YOU bring YOUR dream home to life in 2025 … within budget and without regrets. ❤️

EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/building-your-dream-home

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

One of the most important keys to staying on budget while building is getting accurate home construction quotes BEFORE you hire your builder.

However, it can be a little tricky to get quotes when you most likely don’t even have a floor plan when you’re interviewing builders. 

So, how do you get (accurate) quotes from builders without a floor plan? 

It all starts with a crystal clear vision of your future home.

In this episode, we’ll discuss some (really important) things to consider when creating your dream home vision so that you can get quotes from potential builders that truly take into account your desired dream home.

EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/accurate-home-construction-quotes

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Building a custom home is a HUGE investment in both time and money. Obviously, you want to get it RIGHT! I want this for you, too, so I’m giving you a huge tip in this episode … stay tuned because this is a custom home build MUST DO!

EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/custom-home-build-must-do

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about your upcoming home build and you don’t know how you can possibly feel confident designing an entire house, this episode is for you. All it takes to feel confident is to have CLARITY before building your house.

There’s a reason that ‘Clarifying Your Vision’ is the very first step in my BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ Blueprint that I teach my clients.

A clear vision is an essential component to feeling confident (and in control) as you go through your home build.

It is the absolute foundation for every single design decision you’ll make while building your house.

We’re going to get into it, but if you’ve been thinking about joining BEFORE YOU BUILD℠, now is the time to do it :).

EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/confidence-when-building-a-house

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

This episode is a little different than my typical episode … it’s more of a personal explanation of my top floor plan regret that I have for my own custom home. 

Although this is a personal story about my own home build experience, I know it will help anyone out there who is toying with the idea of doing what I did (and now regret).

I'm also sharing a BONUS at the end of the episode ... my second biggest floor plan regret :).

EPISODE SHOW NOTES: carolineondesign.com/floor-plan-regret
FREE FLOOR PLAN QUESTIONNAIRE: carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

I recently decided I was going to try to create a floor plan design with ChatGPT. 

I was looking online at different floor plans, and I found things I liked about each one, and then I thought, "Well, why don't I just create my own, and I'll have ChatGPT do it?" 

I thought I could plug everything that I wanted in, and a beautiful floor plan would spit out, and voila, I would have it. 

That's not exactly what happened. 

A floor plan did spit out, but it was far from beautiful! 

So that was a bust. However, I found things about ChatGPT beneficial when you're creating your floor plan. 

Tune in and learn why I think ChatGPT can be a great tool in your tool belt as you create your floor plan.

-
EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/floor-plan-design-with-chatgpt
FREE FLOOR PLAN RESOURCE: carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook
ChatGPT: ChatGPT.com

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

My business coach recently asked me, 'What movement would you love to create for the people you serve?' In other words, how do I want to help YOU and others who are building their dream homes?

I had SO many thoughts automatically run through my brain. I knew these things deep down, but I haven't done a great job of explaining exactly how I want to help YOU. Tune into this episode because I'm sharing it all :).

Grab a seat in my FREE class, 'How to Build Your Dream Home On Budget WITHOUT Sacrificing Your Must-Haves'. This is a great place to start!

EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/before-you-build-movement

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

In this episode, we’re talking about the MANY MANY MANY benefits of planning before building your house. 

I see these benefits first-hand with my home build experience, as well as with my clients as they go through and complete the home build process.

I’ve started a movement to get people to PLAN before they build because I know there are SO. MANY. BENEFITS. to doing this.

It’s IMPERATIVE to PLAN if you want to stay on (or close to) budget when building.

It’s IMPERATIVE to PLAN if you want to get to the end of your home build WITHOUT regrets.

EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/benefits-of-planning-before-building

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training

Are you starting to work on your custom floor plan and want to make sure you do it right? (i.e., you want to avoid making costly floor plan mistakes that you’ll later regret.) If so, tune in!

In this episode, we’ll cover common mistakes people make when creating a custom floor plan (or tweaking a stock plan). Unfortunately, I even see some builders (and the occasional architect) make these floor plan mistakes simply because they overlook the little details.

But don’t worry … you'll have a big advantage over *those* people because you'll know what important details to look out for so you can avoid making these mistakes in your own floor plan.

EPISODE: carolineondesign.com/floor-plan-mistakes-to-avoid/
FREE FLOOR PLAN QUESTIONNAIRE: carolineondesign.com/fp-free-workbook

Get the SPLURGE + SAVE PLANNER℠ → carolineondesign.com/splurge-blog-promo

Join BEFORE YOU BUILD℠ → carolineondesign.com/before-you-build

Download FREE HOME BUILD GUIDE → carolineondesign.com/home-build-guide

My FREE CLASS → Build Within Budget and Without Regrets! Grab your seat at carolineondesign.com/free-training