Entire Build Process

Hi Guys,

Basically I want to build a home and I have no idea how to go through the entire process.

I have a 0.5 acre site in North County Galway.

Budget is 200,000 - 260,000.

I would like to build a 3-4 bed home between 1,600 - 1,800 feet.

I would like to achieve a high level of air tightness and have the place well insulated.

So that's basically what I want.

So where do I start?

Should I go to an architect and pay. 8% - 10% of the build? (anywhere from 16,000 - 26,000)

Get it designed and then try and price it and hope it falls within my budget?


Should I buy off the shelf plans or use an engineer and specify I want high insulation, HMRV, etc. and get a QS to price it?

I really just don't know how to start getting the build underway at all.

Either way it seems like I am spending a lot of money before I even have a slight idea if I can even afford to build.

People on here give E1,600 per m2 as a ballpark figure.

That puts it at E238,400 for a 1,600sqft house. Is that a turnkey figure?

What is the best way to go forward from here?

I want a house, I have the land and I'm completely lost as to my next steps.

Thanks for reading and I would really appreciate any help