New to this. best software to design something according to specific dimensions?

I am new to this, I want to start designing objects that I first take measurements for and then be able to create skins for objects. What is the best software to start learning on where I can create lets say a miniature of my house but up to scale? Thank you for any advice.

Sketchup or Creo Elements/Direct Modeling Express 4.0.

Not sure what you mean by "skins" Do you mean textures? I use SolidWorks, which is very precise about dimensions. It's a CAD program, so no very good at anything but general colors for different objects. But you can import it into other software for the finishing touches.

Attached is a very accurate model of my high school gym (the way it USED to be) , done in Solidworks.

I would love to use Solidworks too, but to the best of my understanding it's priced at $5000 US.

Yeah, well you have to be creative.