AutoCAD is by far the most commonly used design program for professional building design (architects and engineers) and is owned by the American company Autodesk. It only runs under MS Windows. It's file formats, DXF & DWG, have become the de facto standards for file transfer between competing CAD programs. ArchiCAD is a far more sophisticated BIM (Building Information Modeling) program that creates a virtual building and is owned by the Hungarian company Graphisoft. It is used mostly by larger architectural firms and runs under MS Windows and Macintosh OSX. The program can import and export DXF & DWG files if they haven't been corrupted. Both programs began in the early 80's and were the first of their kind. Autodesk purchased a BIM program in '02 called Revit in order to competes with ArchiCAD. Each of these programs costs a small fortune and each provides a "viewer" program so others can open and look at the files on their computer. Since all you want is a set of plain paper design documents to give to a builder and get permits, I don't see why the choice of the CAD program would matter. Make sure the drafter isn't using a "STUDENT" version of either program and that you have a way to print the files later from a USB flash memory stick, etc.

Is there a free or inexpensive CAD program I can use at home to DIY my decor?

Hi @landzllc! Chief Architect offers Home Design software for both DIY and Professional projects. Our product line is compatible with both Mac and PC products, and we additionally offer a 3D Viewer app that makes it easy to share and preview your designs on mobile devices. You can get an idea of how our software works through our YouTube channel and by downloading a Trial Version of the software. We'd love to answer any questions you might have about the program. Reach out at sales@chiefarchitect.com or 208-292-3400. Facebook Instagram Pinterest Good luck with your projects!

Hi Gina! Chief Architect creates a suite of design software products that work on both Mac and PC operating systems. Our tools allow you to not only draw the floor layout of your home and basement, but also generate 3D scenes that you can decorate and navigate as you see fit. You can see some of the spaces that can be created in our DIY software, Home Designer by Chief Architect here: https://www.homedesignersoftware.com/interior-design/ Also, here is a user-run Facebook Group, in case you'd like to see what other customers are doing with the Chief Architect Software tools: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ChiefGoodies/ Give us a call if you have any questions! 208-292-3400