The cost to build a house depends on a lot of factors. You have to make decisions by considering the risks associated with the project. You must know that a minor mistake in the cost estimates can disturb your budget. That is why you should do your homework before starting the construction process.
Mostly, the homeowners and contractors rely on professional cost estimating services to plan their home construction. They have to include the cost of every element, from the grading to the material finishes. Especially after the fluctuations in the material prices and the availability of labour, it is important to be super accurate in the cost evaluations.
Average Costs
However, the average cost to construct a new house is almost $430,000. This can be different according to the specifications and the features the client requires. This means that almost $162 per square foot is required.
It is also true that the total investment is beyond the construction process. You have to consider the cost of overheads, marketing, profits, etc.
Cost Range by Square Footage
The total cost varies dramatically based on home size and location:
- 1,000 sq ft home costs $100,000 – $200,000
- 1,500 sq ft home costs $150,000 – $300,000
- 2,000 sq ft home costs $200,000 – $400,000
- 2,500 sq ft home costs $250,000 – $500,000
- 3,000 sq ft home costs $300,000 – $600,000
- 3,500+ sq ft home costs $350,000 – $700,000+
Detailed Construction Cost Breakdown by Phase
To get a detailed construction cost, it is important to have detailed knowledge of the materials required. For that, you can get professional Construction Material Takeoff Services from a reliable company. Currently, SMA estimating LLC is one of the top companies in the USA, providing flawless estimates to contractors and other clients. So, do not rely on your guesses and get expert cost evaluations to prevent mistakes.
1. Site Work (7.6% of Construction Cost)
It takes $32,719 to invest in sitework. This step includes several expenses, such as:
- Land clearing and grading costs between $1,500 – $8,000
- Soil testing costs from $800 – $2,100
- Engineering and architecture fees cost $16,000 – $48,000
- Building permit fees cost between $1,000 – $8,000
- Survey and inspection fees range between $300 – $2,000
These prices depend on the size and location of your property.
2. Foundation
It almost takes $44,748 to complete the foundation work. This also depends on many things, like types:
- Concrete slab takes $5,200 – $13,000
- Crawlspace cost $7,000 – $21,000
- Unfinished basement costs between $10,000 – $30,000
- Finished basement adds $7 – $23 per square foot
3. Framing
Framing a house costs almost $70,982 because this step includes:
- Lumber and materials
- Roof trusses
- Sheathing
- Subfloor installation
- Metal work
- Basic window and door openings
4. Major Systems Rough-Ins
The Average Cost of the major system is $82,000. The figure can be different according to the requirements.
Plumbing: $27,000 average
- Water supply lines
- Drain and waste lines
- Rough-in for fixtures
- Gas lines, if applicable
Electrical: $27,000 average
- Wiring throughout the home
- Electrical panel installation
- Outlet and switch boxes
- Lighting circuits
HVAC: $27,000 average
- Ductwork installation
- Heating and cooling units
- Thermostat wiring
- Ventilation systems
5. Exterior Finishes
The exterior work cost almost $57,510 including windows and doors. However, this also includes:
- Siding installation
- Roofing cost from $5,600 – $11,500
- Exterior painting ranges between $1,800 – $4,400
- Windows and doors cost from $3,000 – $9,300
- Gutters and downspouts
- Exterior trim work
6. Interior Finishes
The interior finishes cost around $103,391. This comprehensive category includes:
- Insulation costs from $1 – $4.50 per square foot
- Drywall costs between $2.74 – $5.04 per square foot
- Interior Painting costs from $2,000 – $6,000
- Flooring costs between $8,000 – $25,000
- Cabinets and Countertops cost $20,000, almost
- Appliances cost from $5,000 – $15,000
7. Final Steps (6.5% of Construction Cost)
The project takes $27,834 to complete the project. It includes:
- Final inspections and code compliance
- Cleanup and debris removal
- Punch list completion
- Driveway and walkway paving
- Landscaping and grading
- Final utility connections
- Certificate of occupancy
Labor Costs
Labor expense also covers a major portion of the overall budget. A general contractor takes almost $32,000 – $64,000 to work on the project.
The Construction Manager cost from $16,000 – $48,000, and the Architect costs $16,000 – $48,000.
Regional Cost Variations
- The Midwest is the most affordable part of the USA.
- The South area comes in the middle in terms of cost.
- The Northeast area has higher rates due to rates of labor costs and regulations.
- The west side is the highest in the construction cost because of the famous states.
A reliable Construction Estimating Company can help you estimate the project according to your location.
Hidden Costs You Must Plan For
Hidden costs can easily add 10% to 25% to your total construction budget. It includes:
7. Items Not Included in Base Price
Final Thoughts
The cost to build a House mainly depends on your needs. You have to choose materials and other things according to your budget. Otherwise, a single misstep will lead you to over-budgeting. They will provide you with accurate cost estimates that will help you complete the projects flawlessly.
