Software Comparisons

. IMSI TurboFLOORPLAN Instant Architect
"IMSI TurboFLOORPLAN Instant Architect - Architecture Software"Photo: Jackie Craven

IMSI TurboFLOORPLAN Instant Architect Version 12 offers instant gratification for the beginner. This home design software program doesn't have all the "bells and whistles," but includes more than enough options to create floor plans, cost estimates, landscape designs, and masterful 3D illustrations. Plus, Instant Architect is budget-priced.
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3. IMSI TurboFLOORPLAN Home & Landscape Pro
"IMSI TurboFLOORPLAN Home & Landscape Pro Architecture Software"Photo: Jackie Craven

Home & Landscape Pro from IMSI TurboFLOORPLAN is a souped-up version of their Instant Architect software. It has out-of-the-box simplicity for beginners, but also offers powerful CAD tools and many extra features for advanced users. The ease and adaptability of Home & Landscape Pro make it an especially good buy.
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4. Chief Architect Home Designer Suite 9.0
Complex and powerful, the Chief Architect Home Designer Suite has sophisticated tools for designing and remodeling houses, kitchens, baths, decks, landscapes, and interiors. Also included are calculators for estimating the cost of your project. Before you buy, consider listening in on a free online seminar on the Chief Architect Web site. The tips you learn may help you choose the best program for your needs and skills.
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5. Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer Suite
"Better Homes & Gardens Home Design Suite"Photo: PriceGrabber

Better Homes and Gardens Home Designer Suite 8.0 has been replaced by Chief Architect Home Designer Suite (above), but you can still order the 8.0 version online. Either version packs a lot of power with a huge library of sample plans and photo galleries. If you've never used graphics software before, plan to spend time learning how to use the program.
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6. Punch! Home Design Suite

Punch! offers a variety of respected home design software programs that will let you move from simple home designs to complex electrical and plumbing systems. Some programs are for the MAC, others for the PC. Browse this list to find the program that best meets your needs.
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7. DesignWorkshop Lite (FREE)

The cost-free DesignWorkshop Lite software program lets you build your own 3D models of buildings, landscapes, exhibits, or any kind of spatial design. For a small price, you can also order complete documentation, tutorials, and additional example building models. DesignWorkshop Lite has a dual platform for both Macintosh and Windows operating systems.