Starting a Computer Aided Remodeling/ Landscaping Business

Q. I wish I had a way to see the results of my home construction and remodeling before I did it. I would have chosen different colors indoors and siding outdoors. I would "see" my landscaping before I do it. Is there a way to make this into a business. Can I get a hold of software that the general public would not have? Would I have to be an architect or interior designer to offer this service? My area is full of contractors and is fairly affluent yet this service is not offered anywhere. I saw a franchise from Ideavision on the net that offered this business at a cost of 10,000. and the pictures did not look that great. Basically I am asking where should I go for info on this? Thanks, Carrie

Advice by Tammy Harrison

A. Dear Carrie: 

I am unsure whether the software exists that you speak of, but some serious research should show you the answers. Try searching in home improvement, interior design, landscaping, etc. Colors are not universal for everything, but there is a basic color scheme that is widely recognized which is Pantone(tm) - and every computer is not set on universal settings so seeing the true colors that you speak of is not going to be the same for everyone. 

Research is where to start your information quest, conduct searches and then conduct more searches. If the software is not available that you speak of, you have a big decision to make with a huge idea. Take a look at the current "Reader's Digest" story (the final, largest story in the magazine) about a man who undertook something very close to what you ask. I am not sure if the software that he has been involved in is the same as you ask about, but it is a fine example of the work that would be involved in making a go of such a product in that arena.