Your best bet is to have a residential structural engineer do a site visit and a soil test. As the home is only 10 years old, it is normal to have some settlement and additional settlement after 10 years should be minor. The fact you are concerned of future settlement should be a red flag. Additionally, you are concerned about moisture. Two red flags. It is your choice, but buyer beware. Best of luck.

cool --but you can see the entire floor has been raised--do you have the ceiling height? a closet 'step up' would be less of a structural commitment, OR a buildup under builtin furniture--like bookcases flanking a fireplace, also some great ideas on HOUZZ i'd never have thought of. sorry i'm not tech-ie enough to paste the site:) of course if you go 'structural' --all walls and ceilings are fair game as well. remember that ease of access [or lack thereof] can affect stealth mode greatly--as in your pic: every time you step onto the 'box' in your pic you would hear a 'different' sound.

First, the furniture is too traditional for a modern look. I would go for a light, airy look to take advantage of the oodles of natural light. Can go for Scandi designs. Look at Ikea for simple inspirations. Would also suggest changing the curtains for plain blinds or even plain curtains in a heavy fabric. Textured fabric will do quite well here, I suppose.

Hi Sir, Since you are done Identifying your needs and limitations follow some referenced tips! Like thinking about three viable plans gives you greater flexibility if some elements are unworkable after talking to your designer/architect. They also help you clarify the mix of elements that are most important and the least to your family and your lifestyle. You also need to separate your interior design and completion of the home budget, which includes new fittings and furniture, garden treatments, etc., from the building budget. Finally, after working out a budget, determine if your expectations are realistic. If certain elements may make you go over budget, tweak and adjust your plans so they are viable. Once you have finalised your top 3 house plans, you should choose someone to make them a concrete floor plan to develop. if not? try these tips to communicate your vision - use software, Pin it, make mood boards and gather sample materials. Good Luck! - Layden Wangmo [senior design consultant] MAD DESIGN