Home Design Software?

Question

When planning a flip or large interior redesign does anybody use software like they show on those flipping shows? I've been looking at a software called Chief Architect (because of how simple, advanced, or extensive, and in-depth it can be depending on how deep into it you want to go and what your plans are), as well as AutoDesk homestyler. Autodesk's program is neat because you can purchase directly through the software anything you use to create the design, and it's free. I think with these two software applications you can rehab, redesign, and re-imagine anything you could think of.
	
	Does anybody have input on either of these two applications or perhaps better software/methods?
	
	Regards,

Jason Eyerly

Steve Babiak · Answer

Don't ignore the first link shown at the bottom of the page under "Related Discussions".

Robert Kramer · Answer

If you have no CAD experience then start with the Home Designer version of Chief. It should give you all the basics that you need with the lowest learning curve & least frustration. SketchUp is free so you should of downloaded it already and started playing with it. You'll know real quickly if you like it or not.

Jason Eyerly · Answer

Am I hearing you guys correctly that GoogleSketch is better than Chief Architect? I can get AutoCad, but I have no idea where to use it or how to start with it. That being said I think google and CA will be my best options.

Robert Kramer · Answer

I use Chief Architect every day with my clients (I'm a kitchen & bath designer). Like every product out there it does some things real well and some things not so well. Over all it's a great program for getting you ideas across. If you have any type of CAD experience it will be easy to learn. It will take a little longer if you don't. The YouTube videos out there will help you a lot.

I also use SketchUp for my bathroom designs when I need more detail than what CA can offer. It's fun to use and downloading objects from the library allows you to give every design a custom look.

When I need to do real detail designs, floor plans, & elevations I use Vectorworks. Another great drafting program but very pricey.

If you need design services let me know.

Mike Reynolds · Answer

Oh and you could also look into DraftSight.

Mike Reynolds · Answer

Chief Architect is good as well as sketch up. With Sketch Up they have free classes you can take online to help you with the process. Also AutoCAD is free if you are a student. You just cant use your plans for anything but yourself or classes.