8 Cheapest Types Of House To Build
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by Richard Morrison
- February 14, 2016
- Trends
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Are you looking for an affordable way to build a house? Building your own home isn’t just about having a place of your own, it’s also about mastering the art and science of construction. If you’re considering building your own home but don’t know where to start, then this article is perfect for you!
According to my thorough research as a real estate specialist, I’m here to tell you all about the 8 cheapest types of houses that can be built in no time at all – so let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents showQuick Summary
Building a house can be expensive, but there are some cost-effective options available. Here are some of the cheapest types of houses to build: Standard Prefabricated Homes, Efficient Tiny Houses, Old Style Log Cabins, Creative Shipping Container Homes, Traditional Ranch Style Houses, Basic Straw Bale Houses, Futuristic Geodesic Dome Houses, and Remote Off Grid Homes.
Standard Prefabricated Homes
Average cost to build: $90-$120 per square foot
Average cost to buy: $100-$200 per square foot
What a coincidence – I was just thinking about what the cheapest types of house to build are and here you are asking me that very same question! Well, there is one type of home building that comes to mind right away. Prefabricated houses could be considered one of the most cost effective methods out there.
Prefab homes come in many different styles and can offer an attractive option for those looking to save money while still having all the comforts they desire.
By buying components from a prefab manufacturer, it’s possible to assemble your own home quickly without needing any special skills or knowledge.
Efficient Tiny Houses
Average cost to build: $97,500
Average cost to buy: $45,400
Not only are they cozy and inviting, but the price tag is usually much lower than that of other types of houses. Plus, if you’re handy with tools or know how to build things yourself, it could even become one of the cheapest types of home to construct.
Tiny homes come in all shapes and sizes, so there’s something suitable for every lifestyle. Many people use them as their full-time residences while others employ them as vacation spots or guesthouses on their property.
No matter what your plans are for a tiny house, they provide a unique opportunity to downsize without compromising on quality living space.
Log cabins offer yet another cost effective option when it comes to building small dwellings.
Old Style Log Cabins
Lively and luxurious log cabins can be constructed with ease:
• Logs for the walls come pre-cut, saving you time and money;
• The construction is simple since logs fit snugly together without requiring complicated carpentry techniques;
• You don’t need to use expensive materials—you can build a log cabin using natural materials like pine or cedar;
• When it comes to insulation, logs help keep temperatures inside comfortable because of their thick composition.
Log cabins offer an affordable way to add rustic charm to your property while still providing all the modern comforts you need.
Creative Shipping Container Homes
Average cost to build: $16,500-$44,500
Average cost to buy: $32,000-$61,000
Take the case of a couple in New York who recently renovated their shipping container home into a stylish two-story residence, complete with custom furniture and cabinetry. With some creative design work, they managed to make it both spacious and comfortable while staying within budget.
The advantages of building a shipping container home are numerous; one of the most significant is that you can build them relatively quickly compared to other types of housing construction.
Shipping containers also have good insulation properties which help save on energy costs over time.
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Traditional Ranch Style House
Average cost to build: $150 per square foot
Average cost to buy: $159,900
Ranch style houses are a great choice for those who want to build an affordable home. They typically have simple, one-story designs which makes them cost effective and easy to construct. Here’s why they’re becoming increasingly popular:
1. Cost – Building materials for ranch homes can be cheaper than other types of construction due to their simplicity;
2. Energy efficiency – Ranch houses often use less energy since they don’t require heating or cooling entire second stories;
3. Size flexibility – You can customize the size of your ranch house by adding more rooms or increasing the square footage at any time; and
4. Aesthetic appeal – Their classic design looks great on almost any lot.
Basic Straw Bale Houses
Average cost to build: $7,000
Average cost to buy: $499,900
Straw bale houses offer an affordable and sustainable option for those looking to build a home.
With their simple construction process and eco-friendly materials, straw bale homes are becoming increasingly popular among builders of all budgets.
The first step in building a straw bale house is finding the right location. Straw bales work best when placed on flat land with good drainage and plenty of sunshine. The walls must then be framed out before they can be filled in with the straw bales themselves. To ensure stability, these frames typically use metal posts or wooden beams that hold the wall’s shape while also providing support for roofing material above it.
By using natural materials such as clay, lime, sand, and water for their plastering needs, straw bale buildings provide an inexpensive alternative that still manages to look good.
In addition to being energy-efficient and cost-effective, this type of housing offers a unique aesthetic appeal that stands out from traditional builds like ranch style houses.
Futuristic Geodesic Dome Houses
Did you know that geodesic dome houses are becoming increasingly popular? According to recent studies, the number of people who own a geodesic dome home has increased by 50% in the past four years.
So why is this type of house gaining traction? Geodesic domes are incredibly energy efficient and cost-effective to build as they use less materials than traditional homes.
Plus, their unique curved shape makes them very strong and able to withstand high winds or other natural disasters with ease. Not only that but they also offer an abundance of living space due to their design which can be used for multiple purposes such as offices, guest rooms or even yoga studios!
The cheapest type of house to build in Canada is a dome-shaped house, with an average cost of only $40 per square foot.
Remote Off Grid Homes
Here are some advantages of building and owning an off-grid home:
1) You don’t have to pay utility bills – Saving you money on electricity and gas while also eliminating your carbon footprint.
2) More freedom in terms of location – Escape urban life without having to worry about access to services or resources.
3) Increased independence – Take control of your own energy supply and be more self-sufficient than ever before.
Off grid homes offer a range of benefits which make them an ideal choice for those looking for a cheaper type of house to build.
Unused Garage Conversions
There’s no need for expensive new building materials or complex design planning; what you already have is often enough!
Of course, there will still be some expenses associated with any project like this so make sure you do your research beforehand. But if you’re looking for ways to cut down on cost without sacrificing quality, then consider giving your old garage a second life as part of your home.
The potential savings don’t stop there either. You’ll save on labor costs since much of the work can be done by yourself and any friends or family that are willing to lend a hand. Plus, depending on zoning regulations in your area, this type of conversion could even come with some tax breaks.
Building Materials & Tools
The possibilities seem endless, but with careful planning, you can find exactly what works for your budget.
Imagining myself walking up and down those aisle filled with potential solutions I could use to build my dream house, it is tempting to go overboard and buy anything that catches my eye. However, understanding which materials are necessary while also being cost-effective helps me narrow down my choices considerably.
From lumber and concrete blocks to steel framing or brick veneer siding – weighing out pros and cons regarding price point, quality, longevity and aesthetic appeal all play into this decision process.
Labor Expenses
Coincidentally, labor costs are often the biggest expense when it comes to demolishing and building a house. If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to build a house, then there are several options available to help keep your labor costs down.
One option is to hire unskilled workers instead of skilled contractors. Unskilled workers may not have as much experience in construction, but they will still do their best work at a fraction of the cost of hiring professionals.
Another option would be to use prefabricated materials that require less time and effort during assembly. Prefabricated materials come with detailed instructions so even inexperienced builders could assemble them without any major issues. This could save you money both in terms of time and labor costs.
Government Permits And Regulations
We need to talk about permits and regulations if we’re going to make sure that our dream homes come true. It’s important to research the requirements in your local area before starting construction so that you can avoid any costly surprises down the road. Here are some points that are worth considering:
•Zoning laws: These will determine where one is allowed to build, what type of structure is permitted and how large it can be.
•Building codes: This is an ever-evolving set of rules meant to ensure safety standards when constructing buildings or additions, such as fireproofing materials and stairwells with certain dimensions.
•Environmental regulations: Depending on jurisdiction, there may be restrictions on what kind of land disturbance activities are allowed and other measures taken to protect resources like water and air quality.
Design Options
Building a house is no small feat, and there are many factors to consider in order for it to be done right. When building an affordable home, design considerations must not be ignored.
The layout and size of the home are essential elements that need to be taken into account when constructing on a budget. If space is at a premium, then opting for fewer walls or smaller rooms may help keep expenses low while still providing adequate living space.
Additionally, using pre-fabricated components can reduce costs as well since they don’t require additional labor onsite.
Furthermore, materials such as wood frame construction cost less than brick or concrete block and have become increasingly popular among builders due their affordability and durability over time.
Insulation Options
When it comes to building a house, insulation is an important factor. It helps keep the temperature comfortable inside and can help save energy costs in the long run. But what are some of the cheapest types of insulation for your home?
Fiberglass batts are one of the most cost-effective ways to insulate your walls and ceilings. By using this type of insulation, you’ll be able to create an airtight seal that won’t allow any cold or hot air to escape through gaps or cracks in the wall.
Financing Considerations
Let’s take a look at some of the most cost-effective ways to finance your cheapest types of house build.
First, you can opt for traditional bank loans or credit unions. This type of loan lets you borrow money from either a commercial bank or other financial institution and then use that money toward construction costs.
Bank loans typically require good credit and long repayment terms (usually over 10 years) but they offer competitive rates with no origination fees. It’s important to shop around to get the best deal on interest rates – as these can vary greatly between lenders.
Next is tapping into savings accounts, such as RRSPs. With this option, you use funds already accumulated in your retirement account towards the purchase of construction materials or land needed for the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the cheapest types of houses to build?
A: Some of the cheapest types of houses to build include tiny homes, prefabricated panel homes, and houses made from reclaimed materials.
Q: How can I build a house on a budget?
A: To build a house on a budget, you can consider options like using cheaper building materials, building a smaller or simpler floor plan, or exploring alternative construction methods such as prefabrication.
Q: Is it cheaper to build a new home or buy an existing one?
A: It depends on various factors such as the local housing market, the size and style of the house being built or bought, as well as the cost of land. In some cases, building a new home can be cheaper, while in others, buying an existing house may be more cost-effective.
Q: What are the cost considerations when building a house?
A: When building a house, you need to consider factors such as the cost of land, construction materials, labor, permits, fees, utility connections, and any additional features or customization you may want.
Q: How can I save money when building a house?
A: Some ways to save money when building a house include getting multiple quotes from contractors, using cost-effective building techniques, opting for energy-efficient designs and appliances, and avoiding unnecessary add-ons or upgrades.
Q: Can I build my own house instead of hiring a contractor?
A: Yes, you can build your own house if you have the necessary skills, knowledge, and time. However, it’s important to note that building a house requires expertise in multiple trades, and hiring a contractor may ensure better quality and adherence to local building codes.
Q: What are the advantages of building a tiny home?
A: Building a tiny home can be an affordable and sustainable option. It requires less space, consumes fewer resources, and can provide a simpler and more minimalist lifestyle.
Q: What are the disadvantages of building a tiny home?
A: Some disadvantages of building a tiny home include limited living space, potential zoning regulations and building code restrictions, and the need for downsizing belongings and adapting to a smaller living environment.
Q: Are ranch homes cheaper to build?
A: Ranch homes are often considered more cost-effective to build due to their single-story design and simplified construction process. However, the overall cost can still vary based on various factors such as the size, materials used, and location.
Q: What are some cheaper building materials that can be used?
A: Some cheaper building materials that can be used include reclaimed wood, recycled bricks, concrete blocks, and alternative options like bamboo or straw bales. These materials can help reduce construction costs while promoting sustainability.
Costs To Hire A Contractor to Build a House
The average price of hiring a building contractor may vary depending on factors such as size, location and complexity of the job. However, here are some tips that will help you stay within budget: plan ahead; compare prices from reliable sources; get estimates based on material costs; ask about discounts or other special deals; and look into local construction laws before signing any contracts.
TIP: Hire experienced professionals who know their way around the industry so that you won’t have to worry about unexpected surprises later down the line. Building your own home doesn’t need to be expensive if you take the necessary steps to ensure that everything goes according to plan.
Expected Timeline For Each Type Of House Build
Prefabricated homes are generally ready-made structures that come in sections and can be assembled quickly on site. Modular homes are typically constructed offsite in factories, but they require more time for transportation and assembly than prefabricated homes do. Both of these types of builds could take anywhere from one week to several months, depending on factors like size, complexity, and materials used.
On the other end of the spectrum, custom home building requires much longer timelines compared to prefabricated or modular construction. You’ll need to factor in design consultations with an architect as well as additional paperwork such as permits and zoning regulations before any construction can begin. Once these preliminary steps are taken care of, you’re looking at six months or more before your new dream home will be ready – not including landscaping work!
Regardless of which kind of house build you choose to pursue, make sure that you understand all associated costs and timelines involved beforehand.
Average Energy Efficiency Rating For These Types Of Houses?
It depends on the type of construction you choose and how many eco-friendly materials are incorporated into the build. For example, timber frame buildings have excellent insulation properties that help keep heat inside while preventing cold air from entering. This makes them highly efficient and cost effective to operate over time. On the other hand, a concrete block structure may not provide as much insulation but could still offer good energy performance if certain materials such as double or triple glazed windows are used.
Advantages and Disadvantages Of Living In An Off-Grid Home
You’ll have to find alternative ways to power your house such as solar panels or wind turbines. This means additional upfront expenses that add up quickly. Additionally, if something goes wrong with your system you will need to repair it yourself instead of relying on professionals who service utility companies. Finally, while enjoying increased privacy and self-sufficiency might feel good in theory – when reality kicks in unexpected challenges are bound to come up along the way.
Off-grid living certainly isn’t for everyone – but those brave enough to take it on could reap significant rewards if they’re willing to put in the effort required.
Long-Term Maintenance Costs Come With Each Type Of House?
In order to ensure you make the best decision for your budget in the long run, let’s take a look at what kind of ongoing expenses you may need to consider:
Stick Built Home: A stick built home is one constructed entirely onsite from lumber or other materials such as concrete blocks. The main advantage of this type of construction is its customization potential; however, depending on where you live and how often extreme weather conditions occur, regular maintenance may also be required – including roof repairs due to wind or hail damage, siding replacements due to water infiltration or termite infestations, gutter cleaning due to clogging with leaves or debris, etc.
Modular Home: Modular homes are pre-fabricated structures that are assembled offsite before being transported and put together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle on site. While these types of houses generally cost less than those made from sticks, they do require periodic inspections by certified engineers for signs of structural integrity issues. Other common maintenance tasks will include window caulking and weatherstripping replacement as well as HVAC filter changes every three months during peak usage periods.
Prefabricated Steel Buildings: Prefabricated steel buildings offer durability and strength without breaking the bank; however, rust can become an issue if not maintained properly. To prevent corrosion caused by oxidation, painting should be done periodically (every 5-7 years) using quality paint products designed specifically for metal surfaces along with occasional spot welding repair jobs whenever necessary.
Conclusion
Each type has its own pros and cons in terms of energy efficiency rating and long-term maintenance costs. However, all offer potential savings over traditional builds if done correctly.
Some may worry about being off the grid when building these cheaper types of houses, but many come equipped with solar panels or other renewable energy sources that help reduce long-term utility bills while also helping protect our environment.
With some thoughtful consideration into what type of house best meets your needs and budget, you can find great ways to save money without sacrificing quality!
Ready to take the next step toward building your dream home? Get started today with StrawHomes.com, where you can explore the lowest cost and greenest types of house structure options!
Already have an idea of what type of home you want to build?
Let StrawHomes.com help you find the perfect property to fulfill your needs. Search today and start building the house you’ve always wanted.
Sources:
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/tiny-house-cost/
https://crownconstructions.ca/how-much-does-it-really-cost-to-build-a-house-in-canada/
Ready to turn your real estate dreams into reality? Contact Richard Morrison, Vancouver’s top realtor with 20+ years of experience. As a Medallion Club member and RE/MAX Hall of Fame award winning agent, he’s the expert you need on your side. Whether buying, selling, or investing, Richard’s personalized approach and deep market insights ensure a successful transaction. Reach out to Richard today at (778) 900-2235 and make your real estate journey seamless and rewarding.
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