This guide is for owners. It offers a new approach to managing the cooperative effort required in all custom home and home addition projects by preparing the owner for a more active oversight role and by substituting a Project Advisor for the General Contractor. The guide is not about pouring footers, framing, or applying shingles. There is an army of experienced tradesmen available in the yellow pages, through TV offerings or in local newspapers that can provide these skills. Planning and building a new home or major addition, unless one chooses to be passive and surprised by the cost and the results, requires a great deal of owner participation. This guide prepares the owner to participate more effectively in all phases of the project by preparing them for the experience and by providing guidance and references. The simple process outlined avoids problems, simplifies oversight, makes the process more enjoyable, and saves money by making the process more efficient. With the help of an experienced Construction Advisor, owners can save as much as 20% by actively participating in the planning and management of a custom home or home addition project.