I wouldn't worry about the scary sounding "no more classes this year" message. I've suggested that they soften the wording of this a bit, but they keep putting the same message up when they don't have any classes scheduled. What it really means is that they do not have any scheduled, and aren't promising they will. But you should not take it to mean that there definitely WON'T be any more classes any time soon.

Like I said, they always put that message up, and I've seen it go up at various points between a flurry of five or six classes in a row over a fall-winter season. So, sign up for the email notification, and don't get discouraged. I'm sure there will be some classes offered this fall or winter.

For just a real broad scope, I'm shooting for spending something like $50~60K, not including the land. Keep in mind, I plan on doing 99% of it myself. (roofing, electric, plumbing, cabinets and countertops) About the only thing I won't do is bring in the concrete for the foundation.

If you don't mind going to bed tired and aching each night, because you did it yourself, and without renting heavy equipment, you can build a home for incredibly low costs without having to cut corners on quality. It really comes down to a matter of how bad you really want it.

My model pics (link in my signature line) will give you an idea of what I am planning.

Look, listen and learn
Im Your Huckleberry

Hello,
I think if you take the class you will love it.
I am very cheep and picky and dont like spend money.
But the class was worth it to me.
i read so many log home books not in print and new ones.
The class taught me to build safe and strong.
I found that the books i read teach you to build something that will not last long.
The class will teach you to build it the right way and the best way.
And the class full of information and very interesting people.
enjoy the rest of the web site.

Hey Rod I noticed that on your log home model you are using purlins, I may be wrong but I was thinking E said they wasn't needed. Maybe E will see this and clarify. Sure would save you a lot of extra effort, unless you just like the look.................> :-)

I too really like that look as well. It seems more log-homish, rustic, and heavy duty to me. Your model is just out of this world, very thorough and well thought out. Great job!! .............................................> :-)

I built my own timberframe house with sip panels for around 65 a square foot. I put some expensive extras in as well. Doing the work yourself and staying away from "unneccessary" expenses help alot. I imagine you could build a log home for much cheaper seeing as how the sip panels themselves added about 10 dollars a square foot.

I got mine from Sipsteamusa out of bainbridge GA. They did pretty good work and were the cheapest. Some people charge sales tax, some don't. That was a deciding factor for me because it can add 1000's.