We are in the process of modifying this house plan, wondering if anyone has built this home??http://houseplans.designsdirect.com/home-plan-details.asp?PlanNum=5888

https://www.architecturaldesigns.com/house-plans/2-bedroom-hip-roof-ranch-home-plan-89825ah

I'm not saying I like everything about this plan but this plan is making me realize how much I liked the 90s. This plan is more traditionnal than most that we see here. First, I like that the greatroom is not directly connected to the kitchen. Second, both, the dining and the breakfast nook are large enough for a decent sized table and seatings, which seems to be rare these days with stock plans. I'm in the minority here and like formal dining rooms. I would skip the bar stools though. The kitchen needs work. You could easily add a window in there. And as others have mentioned, the island is out of place and wouldn't get much use with its minuscule dimensions. The master suite a needs work too. About the guest bathroom being used for guests.... it all depends on how you plan to use that space. If the guest bedroom will actually be used often, you can close that bathroom and squeeze a powder room where thekids nook and master closet are (I'm pretty sure this house was designed before we had smart phones, Ipads and all. The kids nook might have been practicle in the past but is no longer that relevant). Again, depending on who will live in this house, a Jack and Jill bathroom might not work. I don't mind the walk from the garage to the kitchen but think about it as others have mentioned. Again, I'm part of a small minority who don't park in the garage and count my steps everyday. You need a coat closet in the foyer. Could you use some kitchen space for that? The exterior needs help too. Simplify. Four different windows styles, three siding materials, two roofing materials, 4 gables with 3 different looks... I don't need to go further; you'll get tons of comments on the exterior. I am guessing that walk-in pantries and mudrooms were not as popular when this house was designed as they are now. That might be the proof that we don't truly need them but since they are so popular they must serve a purpose. This might be something you'd like to think bout before comitting to this house. Lastly, this plan might not be suited for you lot. I have to agree with Sina that addressing all the changes that need to be made to fit your needs and lot might just cost the same as hiring an architect for a real custom house.

Just because it is built does not mean it is a good design. The cost of construction is a geographic thing and a time sensitive thing. What you are suggesting will most likely be misleading. Any house with new paint and freshly finished hardwood floors will look good, but a lot of people treat that as if they are shiny objects.