Building a Cool House for Hot Times Without Scorching the Pocketbook

Born on a farm outside Marshfield, Wisconsin, Joy V. Smith has lived in many houses since then. When the opportunity came to build her own home, she knew it'd be a challenge, but she'd have what she wanted. Now she shares what she's learned about the thousands of decisions needed to build a house while keeping within a budget. Moving in before the house was finished gave her an on-site appreciation of the building process. Her knowledge is shared on an everyday level and includes diary excerpts and what's involved in building your home from the planning to the punch list and beyond.