Building Your Barndo On Any Budget
Barndominiums — combining spacious metal barn structures with stylish dwelling interiors — remain a hugely popular home style thanks to abundant square footage at cost-effective price points. But can average or even below-average income households reasonably plan for constructing these rural farmhouse/industrial retreats? With intentional lifestyle planning, diligent saving, and a little delayed gratification, barndominium dreams absolutely shine within reach regardless of pay.
Getting Real About Costs
Typical barndominiums range $100,000 to $250,000+ for completed builds but honestly numbers vary based on location, size, fittings and degree of sweat equity. The real question isn’t how much $ you have to work with going into your build. The real question is how much you are personally willing and prepared to sacrifice to get your barndominium on the ground!
Critical cost factors like land purchase (if needed), foundation pouring, site utilities and finishes add up swiftly too. Conservative budgeting for an adequate starter barndo keeps projections around $150,000.
Savings Takes Sacrifice
For households earning the US median salary of $70,000, financing that full amount spells mortgage difficulty. Instead, diligently stashing cash itself becomes key. Funneling just $500 monthly over 5 years accumulates $30,000 — 20% of total costs. In 10 years at that rate? $60k…40% paid in cash! Maximizing extra income streams from side jobs or rental units also expedites savings. get creative in Compounding your savings and you can save 3x as fast.
Seeking Good Land Deals
Lower priced rural land keeps overall budgets reasonable rather than buying costly lots. While often requiring compromise on location conveniences, seeking fixer upper farms with livable existing homes to occupy during gradual barndo construction controls costs. Some sellers may owner-finance land purchases too at lower interest rates.
Building Over Time
Rather than rushing construction all at once, consider a phased building approach spanning years as budget allows. Start with enclosing the core metal structure for basic shelter, then slowly tackle insulation, utilities, kitchen, bath as funds become available. It may take 5-10 years to finalize finishings but payments stay manageable.
With strategic saving, leveraging sweat equity, and opting for incremental building, those on modest incomes can custom craft their ideal barndominium sanctuary over time. Set realistic expectations, embrace the journey and before you know it, you’ll have a cozy barn homestead to call your own!
