I don't have to but it's just quicker than calling my landlord having someone pass by etc.Houses and apartments are smaller typically. 450sf would make a 2BR in Paris.No A/C mostly.New and old constructions are nicer by all architectural standards.But in France you earn less money for the same job and the lending options are not as diverse as here, haha!

I'm a mechanical engineer designer with a architectural degree as well. 

If it's the first, you can probably do much of the work yourself and/or find an architectural student at a local college or a freelance draftsman to make it "pretty."

;-) A couple companies not mentioned above make fiber cement boards and panels that are colored throughout -- which, architecturally makes much more sense, but, of course, is also much more expensive.  

Trigger being home size (primary) since i have a growing family,  and commute from fremont to cupertino knocks out 2.5 hours for my wifes day,  and more importantly I want good public schools (at least 9 rated)Changes to current house:HOA is a big issue, no architectural changes allowed even though it being a SFR.  

Beautiful architecture?

If it is a spec build, at what point should I contact architecture/engineering/construction firms for information?

Michael:Jon is correct that it will cost money to farm out drawing of the floor plan, though in my experience it has only ever been a few hundred dollars - a fraction of what it would cost if you were having someone produce full architectural drawings.Measuring and producing the floor plan yourself gives you more intimate knowledge of your property, but if your time is full or if it is easier to gain access to the property before Close (but after conditions have been signed-off), engaging someone.

I am an investor in real estate in Tulum, Mexico, and currently a partner of Riviera Maya Property Consultants, and innovative real estate/ architectural firm in Tulum.We started off in Mexico after having moved from London, and we knew nothing! 

Not sure how appraisals work on houses with unique styles/architectures...Thank you for some feedback!