Welcome to the ultimate guide on building a barndominium! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from planning and budgeting to construction and interior design. Whether you’re considering building one, living in one, or just love the idea, this guide has you covered.
Step 1: Planning Your Barndominium
What is a Barndominium?
A barndominium, or “barndo,” is a type of building that combines a barn’s rustic charm with the comforts of a modern home. Originally, these structures were barns converted into living spaces. Today, barndominiums are purpose-built to serve both as functional barn spaces and comfortable homes. They are popular for their durability, affordability, and unique aesthetic.
Let’s get straight to what you want to know, and then we will go over everything step by step. First, you will want to know what a barndominium may cost to build. Here is a general cost breakdown or checklist that you can use for a rough estimate.
Comprehensive Expense Chart for Building a Barndominium
Here’s a detailed list of expenses a person may incur when building a barndominium. This includes all possible costs to ensure nothing is missed.
Planning and Design
- Architectural Plans: Costs for hiring an architect or purchasing pre-designed plans.
- Engineering Fees: Structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering consultations.
- Permits and Fees: Building permits, zoning applications, and inspection fees.
Land and Site Preparation
- Land Purchase: Cost of the land.
- Land Surveying: Professional survey to mark property boundaries and features.
- Site Clearing: Removing trees, rocks, and debris.
- Grading and Excavation: Preparing the land for construction.
- Utility Hookups: Connecting water, sewer, electricity, and gas.
Foundation
- Concrete Foundation: Costs for pouring a concrete slab or other types of foundations.
- Footings and Piers: Additional foundation support if needed.
Construction Materials
- Frame Materials: Steel or wood framing materials.
- Roofing Materials: Metal or other roofing materials.
- Siding Materials: Metal, wood, or other siding materials.
- Insulation: Thermal and sound insulation materials.
Labor
- Construction Labor: Costs for hiring contractors and laborers.
- Specialized Labor: Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians.
Exterior Finishing
- Windows and Doors: Purchase and installation.
- Exterior Paint or Finish: Painting or finishing the exterior.
Interior Finishing
- Drywall and Plaster: Interior wall construction.
- Flooring: Costs for materials and installation (carpet, hardwood, tile, etc.).
- Paint and Wall Treatments: Interior painting and treatments.
- Cabinetry and Countertops: Kitchen and bathroom installations.
- Lighting Fixtures: Purchase and installation of lighting.
Plumbing and Electrical
- Plumbing: Pipes, fixtures, and installation.
- Electrical: Wiring, outlets, fixtures, and installation.
- HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Miscellaneous
- Driveways and Walkways: Costs for paving and materials.
- Landscaping: Trees, shrubs, grass, and other landscaping elements.
- Septic System: Installation if not connected to a sewer system.
- Well: Drilling and installation if not connected to a municipal water supply.
Furnishings and Appliances
- Kitchen Appliances: Refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, etc.
- Bathroom Fixtures: Toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs.
- Furniture: Living room, bedroom, and dining room furniture.
Contingency
- Contingency Fund: Set aside 10-15% of the total budget for unexpected expenses.
Summary Table
Expense Category | Specific Costs | Estimated Cost |
---|---|---|
Planning and Design | Architectural plans, Engineering fees, Permits and fees | Variable |
Land and Site Preparation | Land purchase, Land surveying, Site clearing, Grading, Utility hookups | Variable |
Foundation | Concrete foundation, Footings and piers | $10,000 – $20,000 |
Construction Materials | Frame, Roofing, Siding, Insulation | $35,000 – $70,000 |
Labor | Construction labor, Specialized labor | $25,000 – $50,000 |
Exterior Finishing | Windows and doors, Exterior paint or finish | $5,000 – $15,000 |
Interior Finishing | Drywall, Flooring, Paint, Cabinetry, Lighting fixtures | $25,000 – $50,000 |
Plumbing and Electrical | Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC | $20,000 – $40,000 |
Miscellaneous | Driveways, Walkways, Landscaping, Septic, Well | Variable |
Furnishings and Appliances | Kitchen appliances, Bathroom fixtures, Furniture | Variable |
Contingency | Contingency fund | 10-15% of total budget |
Example Cost Calculation
For a 2,000-square-foot barndominium, here’s a rough estimate based on the above categories:
- Planning and Design: $5,000 – $10,000
- Land and Site Preparation: $10,000 – $30,000
- Foundation: $10,000 – $20,000
- Construction Materials: $35,000 – $70,000
- Labor: $25,000 – $50,000
- Exterior Finishing: $5,000 – $15,000
- Interior Finishing: $25,000 – $50,000
- Plumbing and Electrical: $20,000 – $40,000
- Miscellaneous: $10,000 – $30,000
- Furnishings and Appliances: $10,000 – $30,000
- Contingency: $15,000 – $25,000
Total Estimated Cost: $170,000 – $370,000
These estimates provide a comprehensive view of potential expenses. Actual costs will vary based on location, specific requirements, and market conditions.
Pros and Cons of Barndominiums
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Cost-Effective | Zoning and Permits |
Durable | Financing Challenges |
Versatile | Potential Resale Value Concerns |
Energy Efficient |
Choosing the Right Location
Select a location that meets zoning laws and building codes. Some locations don’t allow barndominiums unless its in a rural setting. Check for accessibility to utilities like water, electricity, and sewage systems.
Step 2: Budgeting
Barndominium Cost
The cost of building a barndominium can vary widely based on location, size, and customization. On average, you can expect to spend between $70 and $100 per square foot. This will vary by where you live; if you live in the Midwest or South, your cost will be less than if you live in the Northeast.
Financing Your Barndominium
Explore various financing options such as construction loans, personal loans, and specialized barndominium lenders. Here is a list of specialized lenders for barndominiums.
Here are some lenders that specialize in financing barndominiums:
Specialized Lenders for Barndominiums
- AgTexas Farm Credit Services
- Focuses on providing financing to farmers, ranchers, and rural homeowners in Texas.
- Offers construction loans specifically for barndominiums, as well as long-term financing options post-construction oai_citation:1, Barndominium Financing Texas: Everything You Need to Know.
- Farm Credit Services of America
- Provides loans tailored for agricultural and rural properties.
- Known for offering construction loans and other financing solutions suitable for barndominiums oai_citation:2, Financing a Barndominium: How to Find a Lender.
- Southern AgCredit
- Specializes in financing for agricultural operations and rural properties.
- Offers construction loans for barndominiums, focusing on customers in the southern United States oai_citation:3,Financing a Barndominium: How to Find a Lender.
- Capital Farm Credit
- Offers a variety of loan products for rural properties, including barndominiums.
- Provides both construction and long-term financing options for barndominium projects oai_citation:4,Financing a Barndominium: How to Find a Lender.
- Farm Credit Mid-America
- Provides loans for rural and agricultural properties.
- Offers specialized construction loans that can be used for building barndominiums oai_citation:5,Financing a Barndominium: How to Find a Lender.
- Farm Credit East
- Focuses on agricultural financing and rural home loans.
- Offers construction loans for barndominiums, especially in the northeastern United States oai_citation:6,Financing a Barndominium: How to Find a Lender.
Additional Considerations
- Local Credit Unions: Some local credit unions may also offer specialized loans for barndominiums, especially in rural areas.
- Consult Current Barndominium Owners: Networking with existing barndominium owners in your area can provide insights into lenders that have successfully financed their projects.
Summary Table of Specialized Lenders
Lender Name | Region | Specialization |
---|---|---|
AgTexas Farm Credit Services | Texas | Construction and long-term loans for barndominiums |
Farm Credit Services of America | Midwest and Plains | Agricultural and rural property loans, including barndominiums |
Southern AgCredit | Southern U.S. | Agricultural and rural property loans, including barndominiums |
Capital Farm Credit | Texas and surrounding states | Various loans for rural properties, including barndominiums |
Farm Credit Mid-America | Midwest and Eastern U.S. | Agricultural and rural property loans, including barndominiums |
Farm Credit East | Northeastern U.S. | Agricultural and rural property loans, including barndominiums |
These lenders specialize in barndominium financing and can provide tailored loan products to meet the specific needs of your barndominium project. Be sure to contact them directly to discuss your project and get detailed information on their loan offerings and requirements.
Step 3: Designing Your Barndominium
Barndominium Floor Plans
When it comes to floor plans, barndominiums offer incredible flexibility. Some popular designs include open concept, loft style, and split design. Open concept plans feature large spaces with few walls, loft styles use the upper level for bedrooms or storage, and split designs separate living areas from functional spaces like workshops.
Affordable Barndominium Plans
Opt for pre-designed barndominium kits, choose simpler layouts, or consider a DIY approach to save costs.
Step 4: Obtaining Permits
Zoning and Permits
Ensure you comply with local zoning laws and obtain the necessary permits. Check for restrictions on building types, property use, and construction standards.
Step 5: Construction
Building the Shell
Barndominium kits come with all the materials needed to construct the shell of your barndominium. These kits typically include a steel frame, metal siding and roofing, pre-cut panels, insulation, and windows and doors.
Construction Timeline
Building a barndominium typically takes 6-12 months, depending on complexity. Here’s a general timeline:
Phase | Duration |
---|---|
Planning | 1-2 months |
Permits and Approvals | 1-2 months |
Foundation | 1 month |
Framing and Shell | 2-3 months |
Interior Finishing | 2-4 months |
DIY Barndominium Projects
Consider taking on DIY projects like furniture building, landscaping, and interior décor to add a personal touch and save costs.
Step 6: Interior Finishing
Interior Design Ideas
The interior design of your barndominium can be as unique as you are. Here are some ideas:
- Rustic Charm: Use natural wood finishes, exposed beams, and farmhouse-style décor.
- Modern Minimalism: Opt for sleek lines, neutral colors, and minimalist furniture.
- Industrial Chic: Combine metal and wood elements with vintage industrial fixtures.
Essential Rooms and Features
Design essential rooms with functionality and style:
- Kitchen: Open shelving, large island, farmhouse sink.
- Bathroom: Walk-in showers, clawfoot tubs, double vanities.
- Laundry Room: Built-in cabinets, counter space, hanging rods.
- Home Office: Quiet space, ergonomic furniture, personal touches.
- Master Suite: Spacious layout, en-suite bathroom, walk-in closet.
- Children’s Room: Bunk beds, study area, personal themes.
- Home Gym: Open space, essential equipment, mirrors.
Energy Efficiency
Maximize energy efficiency with proper insulation, energy-efficient windows, and reflective roofing.
Energy Efficiency Aspect | Benefit |
---|---|
Insulation | Easier to insulate, reducing heating and cooling costs. |
Windows | Energy-efficient windows help maintain indoor temperatures. |
Roofing | Metal roofs reflect sunlight, keeping the interior cooler in the summer. |
Step 7: Exterior Finishing
Landscaping and Outdoor Spaces
Enhance your barndominium’s exterior with inviting outdoor spaces:
- Deck or Patio: Perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation.
- Fire Pit: Great for evening gatherings and s’mores.
- Garden Area: Grow your own vegetables or flowers.
Porch and Fencing
Create an inviting porch and enhance security with a fence:
- Wraparound Porch: Provides ample space for relaxation and entertaining.
- Swing or Rockers: Add comfortable seating for enjoying the outdoors.
- Decorative Elements: Use plants, lighting, and décor to enhance the space.
- Fence: Choose from wooden, metal, or living fences for privacy and security.
Sustainable Practices
Incorporate sustainable practices into your barndominium lifestyle:
- Solar Panels: Reduce energy costs and your carbon footprint.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Use collected rainwater for irrigation.
- Energy-Efficient Appliances: Save on electricity and water usage.
Maintenance and Living
Regular Maintenance
Keep your barndominium clean and well-maintained with these tips:
- Regular Inspections: Check for any damage to the metal siding and roofing.
- Pest Control: Ensure your barndominium is sealed properly to prevent pests.
- Cleaning: Keep the exterior clean to prevent rust and wear.
Living in a Barndominium
Living in a barndominium offers a unique experience. Expect:
- Open Spaces: Enjoy large, open living areas.
- Rustic Charm: Appreciate the rustic aesthetic blended with modern comforts.
- Community: Connect with a growing community of barndominium enthusiasts.
By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be well on your way to building and enjoying your very own barndominium. Happy building!