Thanks guys,
I knew I would get very informative feedback here. My oldest daughter's boyfriend is an engineer and he told me the same the thing about 2D vs 3D: that you may produce 2D plans but it is very useful to be able to see (and work with) the plans in 3D. I also planned to use it to produce laser cut kits (at least for me) which I would 'sub-contract'. Maybe I should add a CNC foam cutter and a laser cutter (and a bigger workshop) to my list, oh yes and a 36" scanner so I can import plans. Well, at least it seems I can get the CAD software for free. I will post my efforts here.
-Will