Perhaps the most important part of the whole project process.  Now is the time to look closely at what the needs are , what you would like, and what the project budget will allow.  Experience has shown spending the time now , greatly reduces the expense and stress later.  

We suggest after reviewing the following basic questions, that you make a list with three categories.

a) Must have       b) like to have, but could live without     c) Not that important

* What will the building be used for? Animals, Storage,  Garage, Work shop or Airport terminal?

* How large due you want it to be,  honestly , it really will never be big enough, so be realistic,  

* What style,  and how tall. (Height restrictions may apply to your area)

* Does the available land accommodate the building and  turn-out areas ? (if for Horses)

* How much excavation and site prep is required?
 
* Will a pole barn fit your structural needs?

* Are you willing  and have time to,  build all or portions of it yourself? Remember God's the only one who has   created things in seven days.

* Will it need a foundation, concrete or wooden floors?

* How many doors?  What sizes? What style?  What will you be moving through them?  With or without windows?

* How much light i.e. windows, how large and what style?

* Do you want a loft?  If so will it be used for hay storage?  Feed chutes?

*  Stalls (How many)  Tack room, office , storage, or wash down area?

* How finished do you want the interior to be, unfinished, few areas, or  something that could be featured in "Home and Gardens magazine"?

*  What about electrical, insulation,  plumbing or heat?

* How maintenance free? wood verses metal siding, keeping  in mind the look you are trying to achieve.  Will it fit into the surroundings?  

* Roofing -  metal. shingles, or wood?

* Are you going to cap it with a Cupola, and wind weather vane?

* Do not forget the colors? 
 
* Will it required stamped drawings, easements, building permits?  Are you willing to pull the permits( Note most contractors charge an additional fee for time? 

* Who's paying for it, you, the bank, or loan shark?  Can you really afforded It?

  Are these all the questions you should be asking?  Probably not, we just wanted to get you started. Every individual has their own needs and your plans should  to be tailor to yours.  There is a wealth of information available covering every part of your project, put the time into asking questions and researching   the products.  It would a shame to use the saying I could have, would have, and should have, when it's all said and done.  Happy Barn Building.