30 Things to Consider Before You Break Ground on Your Log Home

There’s nothing quite like building your own log home. The chance to choose every detail, from the layout to the lighting, makes it feel completely personal. But before the first log is delivered or the foundation is poured, there’s a lot to think through.

At Ward Cedar Log Homes, we’ve worked with homeowners for over a century, and we’ve learned that a bit of planning goes a long way. Here’s a practical checklist to help you feel more confident and prepared as you begin your home-building journey.

1–10: Planning and Design Your Log Home

1. Have you chosen a log home floor plan that fits your lifestyle?
2. Is your plan designed for how you live today and in the future?
3. Have you considered single-level vs. two-story living?
4. Do you have space for guests or extended family?
5. Will your layout work well for aging in place?
6. Is there a dedicated area for remote work or hobbies?
7. Have you identified areas for built-in storage?
8. Does the home design take full advantage of your land?
9. Have you walked through traffic flow and room placement?
10. Are you comfortable with your interior finish choices (like flooring, cabinets, and fixtures)?

11–20: Log Home Site Preparation and Property Planning

1. Have you walked the land with a builder or site expert?
2. Is your lot properly surveyed and marked?
3. Will the land need tree clearing or grading?
4. Have you budgeted for a driveway or road access?
5. Will you need a well or connection to town water?
6. Have you tested the soil for septic approval?
7. Do you understand the drainage and water runoff?
8. Have you considered sun exposure for your living areas?
9. Is your build location set for privacy and views?
10. Have you checked local zoning rules and setbacks?

21–30: Budget, Permits, and Next Steps

1. Have you accounted for building permits and local fees?
2. Are utility hookup costs included in your budget?
3. Do you know what’s covered in your home package and what’s not?
4. Have you made a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves?
5. Have you built in a buffer for changes or surprises?
6. Have you confirmed your financing or construction loan?
7. Are you clear on the build timeline and process?
8. Do you have a plan for living arrangements during construction?
9. Are you working with a builder who understands log homes?
10. Have you talked to your log home package provider about customizations?

Why This Checklist Matters

It’s easy to get excited about finishes and forget the foundation. But the more prepared you are before building, the smoother things tend to go. This checklist serves as a starting point to help you make informed decisions, avoid delays, and stay on budget.

We believe the best log homes are built with care, not just materials. And we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to plan your cedar log home?

If you’re just beginning to plan your log home, we’d love to hear what you’re dreaming of. Whether that be design help, construction advice, or wanting to talk through your options, get in touch with our team. We’re happy to help you plan before you break ground on your log home.

[Download the "30 Things to Consider Before You Break Ground on Your Log Home" PDF]

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