One of the most common questions we get from clients is: how much will it cost me to build a home? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricate details of the cost breakdown, merging essential insights with additional factors to ensure you’re well-equipped to manage your dream home project financially.
Pre-Construction Costs: Laying the Foundation for Your Custom Home
Design Costs:
Custom homes often entail higher design costs, involving services from architects or designers. This phase includes obtaining permits and approvals, with multiple consultations leading to potential plan changes, impacting the project’s cost. Customizing features like lighting and appliances adds further to the design costs.
Plot Price:
Securing a lot, with costs ranging from $3,000 to $150,000, is the initial step in your project. If you own the land, this expense might witness a significant reduction.
Water, Sewage, and Other Inspections:
For unfinished lots, professional inspections for utility connections can cost around $8,400.
House Plans or Architectural Fees:
Crafting plans, either through an architect (10% of the total cost) or a draftsperson, incurs fees ranging from $1,700 to $20,000.
Construction Management Fees:
General contractor and construction manager fees constitute 15% to 35% of the total project cost, varying from $3,000 to $52,000.
Building Permits and Local Fees:
Essential building permits typically cost between $1,200 and $2,000, depending on local regulations.
Off-Site Living Expenses:
Living expenses during the construction period can add to the budget, particularly if off-site accommodations are required.
House Exterior Material Costs: Shaping the Facade of Your Home
Excavation:
Clearing land for construction adds an average of $2,300 to your budget for unprepared land.
Foundation:
Laying the foundation costs approximately $8,900, with variations based on size and complexity.
Framing:
Constructing the frame, supporting walls, windows, and doors involves costs ranging from $20,000 to $50,000.
Roofing:
Protecting your home with a typical asphalt shingle roof costs around $8,500.
Siding:
Exterior siding, contributing to weatherproofing and aesthetics, costs $2 to $9 per square foot.
Driveway:
Adding a paved driveway connecting your new house to the road costs around $4,400.
Landscaping:
Transforming the construction zone into an appealing outdoor space can cost approximately $8,200.
Home Interior Material Costs: Crafting Comfort and Elegance Inside*
HVAC:
Installing a home HVAC system ranges from $5,000 to $34,000, considering factors like central AC and ductwork.
Plumbing:
Plumbing installation costs between $1,500 and $17,500, depending on materials used.
Electrical:
Hiring an electrician for wiring, outlets, and electrical panels costs between $7,000 and $13,000.
Insulation:
Upfront costs for insulation installation to ensure energy efficiency range from $3,000 to $10,000.
Drywall:
Installing various types of drywall costs about $2.25 per square foot or $15,550 on average.
Doors and Windows:
Costs range from $150 to $1,500 per window and $250 to $3,500 per door.
Cabinets and Countertops:
Installing kitchen and bathroom cabinets ranges from $100 to $1,230 per linear foot.
Trim:
Installing trim throughout the house costs around $1,500 on average.
Paint:
Interior house painting costs vary, from $300 for DIY to $28,000 for professional services.
Flooring:
New flooring installation ranges from $1 to $10 per square foot.
Fixtures:
Plumbing and lighting fixtures cost around $5,000.
Appliances:
Purchase and installation costs for new appliances range from $3,000 to $15,000.
Furniture:
Furnishing your home may cost between $20,000 and $80,000, depending on the size and style.
With a clear understanding of this detailed breakdown, you’ll be equipped to skillfully navigate the financial complexities of your custom home journey. It’s important to note that the provided fees are estimations, and the actual cost may vary based on your specific preferences and desired features for your custom home. Through strategic financial planning, you can transform your dream home into a tangible reality, minimizing unexpected financial challenges and enabling informed decision-making throughout every stage of your project.
Curious about the cost of building your dream home?
Use the Versa Homes quick budget tool to get an estimate and take the first step toward your new home today!
