News

Questions to Ask When Pulling a Permit - Updated!
Questions to Ask When Pulling a Permit - Updated!
What else will I need for permitting? You'll need more than just our plans for permitting. Every permitting office has its own checklist - and fee schedule. Knowing what they... Read more...
The Sturdy Doghouse: The Easiest Way to Learn Real Construction Skills (And Make Your Dog Very Happy)
The Sturdy Doghouse: The Easiest Way to Learn Real Construction Skills (And Make Your Dog Very Happy)
The Sturdy Doghouse is an easy, beginner‑friendly construction project that involves learning skills like reading blueprints, planning the project, acquiring materials, gathering tools, framing, roofing, finishing, even concrete work if... Read more...
Building vs. Buying a Mobile Home on Your Florida Land: A Practical Guide
Mobile home or site-built house? Both paths offer a way into homeownership for Florida landowners, but they come with very different long-term results. We break down the true costs, timelines, and benefits of each option to help you make the best choice for your family, your budget, and your land. Read more...
Taking on the Upfront Costs for Building a Home in Florida
Taking on the Upfront Costs for Building a Home in Florida
Build your Florida home with confidence. This guide breaks down the real costs of construction in 2025–2026—from materials and permits to utilities, land, and smart strategies that can save you... Read more...
Design Spotlight: "Lindsay’s Live Oak" — A Balance of Gathering and Quiet
Build your dream 4-bedroom home with Lindsay’s Live Oak plans. Includes stamped engineering and architectural drawings - Florida permit ready.  Build it yourself or hand off to a pro. Perfect for families who value community and quiet. Read more...
Mended Oak Difficulty Scale for DIY Builders
Mended Oak Difficulty Scale for DIY Builders
Not all house plans are created equal—and neither is every do it yourself builder’s experience level. Whether you are looking for Florida house plans that are permit-ready for high-wind zones... Read more...
DIY Blue Prints for an Affordable Structure
DIY Blue Prints for an Affordable Structure
Looking for an affordable structure you can build yourself? Meet Isaac’s Garage. This project simplifies professional architecture and engineering into a manageable, confidence-building experience. Learn how you can take our... Read more...
Introducing Ron’s Sable Palm: A New Affordable House Plan Designed for Real‑World Needs
Introducing Ron’s Sable Palm: A New Affordable House Plan Designed for Real‑World Needs
Ron’s Sable Palm is Mended Oak Design & Engineering’s newest affordable house plan—a 3‑bedroom, 2‑bath home with Florida‑stamped engineering, designed for small families, in‑fill lots, and DIY builders. Inspired by... Read more...
Can I Build My Own House in Florida?
Can I Build My Own House in Florida?
I came across a good, point-by-point article on-line - Can I Build My Own House in Florida.  Here's the link to the article: Can I Build My Own House In... Read more...
See a Need? Do Something about It!
See a Need? Do Something about It!
I watched as my dad noticed needs in the community and around the world.  Then I watched him try to do something about it.  That spirit resonates with what we’re trying... Read more...
Starting Something New
Today, I want to share four things I’ve learned from a group of people who start new things all the time: children. Children start new things because they must. Choose something you want to try—and try hard. Don’t Stay Discouraged.  Believe you’ll get better and keep trying. Celebrate big when you succeed—and celebrate with the people you love. And believe that someone bigger than you will help you when you need it. Read more...