The Allison Ramsey Way | What to Expect When You Work With Us

Finding the right house plan shouldn’t feel like a guessing game.

And yet—for so many people—it does. There are thousands of options online, but few come with the clarity and confidence you need to move forward with such a big decision. That’s why we created The Allison Ramsey Way.

This isn’t just how we work—it’s how we’ve helped thousands of clients over the past 30 years design homes they love, avoid costly mistakes, and feel confident in every step of the process.

Here’s exactly what you can expect when you work with us.

Step 1: Start with HouseMatch

Before you fall in love with a plan that doesn’t fit your lifestyle or budget, we help you narrow the field. Our HouseMatch tool is a simple (but powerful) starting point. Answer a few questions about the size, layout, and features you’re looking for, and we’ll show you plans that match—plus a few close contenders.

Not a perfect fit? That’s okay. HouseMatch is meant to spark ideas and help you zero in on what’s most important. From there, you can explore more plans using our advanced filters—armed with new insight into what you’re really looking for.

Try HouseMatch Now

Step 2: Download a Study Set (Free Sample Below!)

Once you’ve found a few favorites, the next best step is to purchase a Study Set. This is an 11×17 PDF that includes floor plans and elevations—essentially a preview of what you’re getting before you commit to a full construction set. It’s not a license to build, but it’s the smartest way to plan ahead.

Too often, people buy a plan online without knowing what’s included, only to discover later that it doesn’t meet their needs—or that it comes with hidden costs. The Study Set helps you avoid that. Share it with local builders and ask for high-level pricing based on your preferred finishes.

This step gives you a realistic look at what your dream home might cost—before you spend thousands on construction drawings.

Want to see what a Study Set actually looks like?
Click here to download a free Study Set sample »

Step 3: Modify If Needed (We’ll Help)

If your conversations with builders reveal that you need to make changes—or if you just want to tweak a few things—we’re here for that too. Schedule a video call with our team. We’ll review your ideas, make suggestions, and provide a clear estimate for the modifications.

No mystery. No pressure. Just a clear path forward.

Step 4: Design Phase Begins

Once the proposal is approved and your initial payment is made, we’ll place your project in our design queue. While you wait for your start date, gather inspiration images, site surveys, or any other details we’ll need to consider.

Then we’ll begin:

  • First, we’ll make sure your plan fits your lot.

  • Next, we send revised sketches for layout and work with you to get it just right.

  • Then, we fine-tune the exterior elevations.

  • Once approved, we build a 3D model so you can truly see and feel what your home will look like.

This part of the process is collaborative and takes a few weeks. We move carefully and intentionally—because getting the design right is worth it.

Step 5: Check-In with Builders Again

Once the schematic design is complete, we recommend another conversation with your builder to ensure your budget is still on track. It’s also the perfect time to submit for any neighborhood or historic district design reviews (and yes, we can help with that too).

Step 6: Construction Documents

This is the final phase before breaking ground. We produce your full Builder’s Set, which includes:

  • Site plan

  • Foundation plan

  • Roof plan

  • Floor plans

  • Elevations

  • Electrical layouts

  • Wall sections and construction details

This is your road map—detailed enough for construction, but still flexible enough for you and your builder to make final finish selections along the way.

How Long Does It Take?

From modifications to final construction documents, the full process usually takes 3 to 4 months. That may sound long—but rushing into the wrong plan or working with the wrong team often takes much longer (and costs far more).

We’ve walked thousands of clients through this journey. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, our process is designed to bring clarity, avoid missteps, and make building a home feel less overwhelming.

Ready to Get Started?

The hard part—construction—is still ahead. But if you’re looking for a house plan and process that actually works, you’re in the right place.

The Allison Ramsey Way is all about clarity, confidence, and a proven path forward.

Start with HouseMatch, download your Study Set, and let’s get designing.

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