“Wow, what a bargain at $70 per square foot,” you say, but what are you really getting for that price? Have you ever seen the signs or ads with a low amount to build a home? This could be a track builder or it could just be a shell house.
A shell house is not ready move in, you will need to complete most of the interior. Track builders can give you these low prices. Track builders get their material in bulk, have large accounts established, and more. Quality of material might be less, or corners are cut to keep cost down. Most track builders have many floor plans for you to choose from. The larger guys most likely bring the workers from the big city or other towns for cheaper labor. All of these items add up to a lot less per square foot in building. You can upgrade the basic features and this price per square foot will continue to go up.
What would you get for $135 per square foot? This price is more likely to occur with a custom builder. Customer builder’s price per square foot really ranges, it could be higher or lower. It all depends on what you put in the home. Chances are the material will be higher quality and the builder will have to pay a bit more since they don’t buy in bulk. Some builders specialize with certain features, whether it is blown in insulation, to high grade tile or carpet.
The bottom line, when you see a low price what are you really getting? You must include all the add on’s to get the real price per square foot. It’s the same concept as buying a car. You can go buy a cheap car, and start adding power, sun roof, warranties, etc. and in no time, you have the price of a luxury car. Wouldn’t you rather just buy the luxury car?
Do the track builders have the time to spend with holding the owners hand and making sure the home is built by specifications and quality… maybe? The small guy/custom builder is usually more eager for the work, plus taking care and building with pride. The small guy is also more likely to have additional time to spend with the owner.
Get a couple bids and compare to see what each one can provide. You might be surprised at what you can get for $110 per square foot verses trying to settle and save money at $75 per square foot. Custom homes tend to carry more value then a track home. Always ask questions. What is your gut feel? First and foremost - Protect yourself!
For ALL Your Real Estate and Building needs or questions, call Debbie at (830) 833-4249 / (713) 818-6658 or debbie@vallonerealestate.net
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