ᐅ Semi-detached house: architect or general contractor / prefab or traditional construction

Hello, I’m new here and just starting the planning phase:

We are going to build a semi-detached house, but the question is what is generally considered the best approach: prefabricated house with timber frame construction (we know someone for that) or a solid, masonry-built house? I’ve heard that prefabricated houses are not as good for sound insulation or only achieve it at high costs. But with a semi-detached house, couldn’t that quickly cause issues between the two halves?

Should we simply request quotes from house builders (e.g., Massivhaus Mittelrhein, Zenz Hausbau) and discuss all details with them? Or consider an option with an architect?
1. Use an architect for the entire process, although our architect friend does not come from our local area. Would it still make sense to hire them for all phases of service (including tendering, supervision, and coordination)?
2. Or have the architect just create a design and then find a general contractor (GC) to manage the build, with the architect at least reviewing the GC contract?

Oh, there are so many more questions burning in my mind. But maybe your experiences can help me a bit.

Thanks, Caroline

I would assume that even prefab houses built as semi-detached units meet the soundproofing requirements (the wall between the houses) – I was wrong, if you believe the building expert’s website. Not bad – you rank first when you search for semi-detached house and soundproofing.

I highly recommend it to you, very informative.

What is Bauexperte’s website?

Moderator Construction Expert, check her profile, her website should be listed there

OK, thanks.
Are there any answers to my questions yet?

What exactly do you have in mind?
Is insulation a concern for you, or are you positive about it?
How do you plan to heat the house?

Have you visited any show home parks and found one or more favorites?