Thinking about modifying a stock house plan? Whether you're adding space, changing the layout, or updating exterior details, making the right changes to a pre-designed home plan can help you get the best of both worlds: a home that feels custom without the full custom cost. At The House Plan Company, we work closely with architects and designers to make the process easy, efficient, and successful.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about house plan modifications—including when to start, what changes are possible, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
What Are House Plan Modifications?
House plan modifications are custom changes made to an existing pre-designed home plan. These updates can range from simple adjustments—like flipping the layout or changing a window—to complex redesigns involving room additions or exterior facelifts.
Modifying a house plan allows you to personalize a ready-made design to better suit your lot, lifestyle, or future needs—while still saving time and money compared to designing a home from scratch.
When Should You Modify a Stock House Plan?
The best time to request modifications is before construction begins. Working with a professional designer early in the process ensures your changes are fully integrated into the final construction documents. Avoiding on-site changes during building helps reduce costly mistakes and delays.
At The House Plan Company, we always recommend finalizing your floor plan on paper—not in the field.
What Can Be Changed in a House Plan?
Here are some of the most common types of house plan modifications:
Simple Plan Changes
- Flip or mirror the layout
- Move or resize windows and doors
- Reconfigure interior walls
- Change the garage orientation
- Adjust ceiling heights
More Complex Plan Changes
- Add a room or bonus space
- Expand or shrink the home’s footprint
- Customize the kitchen or primary suite
- Change the roofline or exterior elevation
- Add outdoor living spaces like decks or patios
How Much Do House Plan Modifications Cost?
Modification costs depend on the complexity of your changes, but they are typically far less than designing a fully custom home.
Minor changes may range from $200 to $800
Moderate to major changes may cost $1,000 to $2,500+
Fully custom plans can exceed $20,000+
When you modify a stock plan through The House Plan Company, you get the benefit of experienced designers who already know the base plan and can make changes efficiently and affordably.
How to Request House Plan Modifications
To ensure a smooth modification process, follow these key steps:
- Start with a Clear Vision
Make a list of your needs and goals. Consider lifestyle, lot conditions, accessibility, future growth, and storage. Think long-term.
- Choose a Plan That’s Close
Find a house plan that meets 80–90% of your needs. It’s easier (and more affordable) to tweak a nearly-perfect plan than start from scratch.
- Be Specific About Your Changes
When submitting modification requests:
- Be clear and direct
- Include notes, sketches, or photos if possible
- Avoid vague language—specifics save time and money
- Consult with a Designer
Our team connects you with the original designer or architect when possible. This ensures all changes are consistent with the structural design and code requirements.
- Review and Approve Your New Plan
Once changes are made, review the updated floor plan and elevations carefully. Ask questions. Only approve when everything looks right.
Tips from Designers: What to Know Before You Modify
Start early. The sooner you begin the modification process, the more flexibility and time you’ll have to get it right.
Avoid mid-construction changes. Making changes on-site can lead to delays, additional fees, and design conflicts.
Trust the experts. Even simple changes—like moving a window—may require updates to multiple parts of the plan.
Share your vision. Sketches, reference photos, and clear notes help the designer fully understand your goals.
Modifying a house plan is one of the smartest ways to build your dream home without paying for a fully custom design. With the right approach, you can adjust an existing floor plan to perfectly fit your lifestyle, budget, and lot—while keeping your timeline and costs on track.
At The House Plan Company, we make it easy to personalize your favorite house plan with expert guidance from experienced designers and architects.
Ready to Modify a House Plan?
Explore our house plans and learn more about the modification process, or contact us to speak with our team.
