Sales FAQ

[ChiefArchitect]

Home Designer FAQs

1. I have a laptop and a desktop; can I install this program on both?

Home Designer 2015 can be installed on as many computers as you would like, though it can only run on one at a time. To move the license back and forth between computers you must “deactivate” the license first before switching to the other computer. This is extremely simple to do and takes just a few seconds to accomplish. An internet connection is required when switching between computers.

Here’s an article on our website that explains how this process works: www.homedesignersoftware.com/support/displayfaq.php?faqNumber=1028.

User License Agreement: cloud.homedesignersoftware.com/1/pdf/documentation/chief-architect-license.pdf

2. How long will it take me to learn the software?

Just like with everything, this largely depends upon the person, their experience with home design and with computers. Our software is known for being extremely intuitive and has a very low learning curve compared to many of our competitors. Some people are up and running in a matter of hours, while others take a bit longer. We do have many hours’ worth of training videos available on our website as well as hundreds of articles written in-house to help with the learning curve and answer any questions you might have. Here are some resources you might find helpful:

www.homedesignersoftware.com/support/database.html
video.homedesigner.chiefarchitect.com
hometalk.chiefarchitect.com

3. Should I order a download or a DVD?

You have the option of purchasing a download only, DVD only, or Download plus DVD.
When you go to order the product as a download, we will automatically place a back-up DVD in your Shopping Cart. This is a back-up copy of the installation, along with a short Getting Started Guide. If you order a download, we set up an online account on our website where you can access the download. If you order a DVD product, it is an additional $14.95 which includes the disk and shipping.

4. Do I need a DVD?

If you order the product as a download you will have access to your online account for at least a year. After that time, you will need to install from a backup you created or the DVD we offer. Also, if you have poor Internet service it might be easier for you to install via a DVD instead of via the Internet.

5. What if I start with one program and later figure out that I need more options or a feature in another version?

We have instant discounts for upgrading, so if you discover you need a program with additional features, you can upgrade to a higher version. See the link below for available offers.

Upgrades & Discounts Information: www.homedesignersoftware.com/discounts

6. If I upgrade, will my plans open in the new version.

Yes, the PLAN files are forward compatible, so you can open and edit them in newer or higher end programs.

7. Will I need to relearn a new software package if I upgrade to a higher end product?

No, all Chief Architect Software is based on the same program, so you will just need to learn the new features available in the new product.

8. I see when I go to check out that you have a place for a promotion code; do you have any promotions going on right now?

We will put any and all sales on our website here: www.homedesignersoftware.com/discounts

9. When I check out, there is nothing in my shopping cart. What do I do?

You can call our sales department at 208-292-3400 to place your order directly or you can change your internet security setting to allow handling of internal cookies. Feel free to change these setting back to the original settings after you purchase.

10. Can I use metric in this software?

Our software has been designed to work with imperial or metric units. When you start a new plan it will ask you if you would like to work in imperial or metric units. Once you specify metric, the dimensioning tools and dialog boxes will switch to metric.

Help Article: www.homedesignersoftware.com/support/displayfaq.php?faqNumber=154

11. Can I use a picture of my house in my design?

You can import a photo and set it on the edge of the terrain. Then you can use the tools to build a deck or landscaping in front of the picture. However, you will not be able to edit anything in the photo. To remodel the siding of the exterior or the design of the interior, you’ll need to recreate the structure using the tools within the software.

Help Articles:
www.homedesignersoftware.com/support/displayfaq.php?faqNumber=779
www.homedesignersoftware.com/support/displayfaq.php?faqNumber=150

12. What is the difference between Home Designer Pro and Chief Architect software?

We offer the full product comparison char here: www.homedesignersoftware.com/chief-architect. Also, here’s a link to download a trial version of Home Designer Pro: www.homedesignersoftware.com/resources/demorequest.php, and Chief Architect X6 Premier: www.chiefarchitect.com/resources/demorequest.php?product=premier&src=web. This is a great way to experience the differences.

13. Can I return the software if it’s not the right fit for me?

We have a 2-week money-back guarantee on our software. You can find the details here: www.homedesignersoftware.com/shop/guarantee.html

[foqus555]

Hello Chief Architect,

 

You may want to include: "Apple Mac native application coming within days" to your sales FAQ.  I almost just bought a Punch software program, because it was the only good one I found that runs on an Apple Mac.  But thanks to seeing the note in the "Announcements" section, I no longer have to do that (or buy Windows, run Boot Camp, etc).  Some things are worth the wait!!

[Kbird1]

call the sales number and you will get it now.... M.

[desmo-rob]

Can you please add an FAQ item that addresses the use of drawing tablets/displays such as Wacom/Huion and others? I have a macbook Pro M1 and am purchasing a drawing tablet. I'd like to know how well this configuration is supported.