building a house

[jjcold]

Someday within the next 3 - 4 years I would like to build a small (around 1200 sq ft.) house to sell. I've never built a house, but am very adept at mechanical things and good with tools. In fact, I used to be a professional mechanic. I've been watching my own new house being built, and just love observing the process. I think I'd love to build a simple house. How should I get started? I'm thinking about approaching a small contractor to take me on as an "apprentice" for cheap and then showing me the ropes. Is this a foolish thought? How would I approach someone about this? Thanks.

[Rich]

It may be difficult hiring on with someone as an apprentice. They may start you as a laborer and if you do well move you to a carpenter helper. Again - most will treat you just like a new hire...unless you have a friend in the business.
As far as approaching someone - go about it just like getting any other job.

[tpluttig]

The other thing you'll probably want to do is read, read, read! There's lots of material available on the subject of being your own general contractor. Study the processes involved in residential construction (permits/zoning, construction types & techniques, scheduling/coordination, etc. Another thought is that you might want to try finding a carpenter that is willing to come in to help if you need two sets of hands or get into a tricky situation. I guess it depends on how much of a DIYer you want to be. :-)