A barndominium, also known as a barndo, is an open concept steel building with large square footage that combines living space and a working area. The term can be used to describe any metal structure from a simple one story to a large, luxurious home. Picture a studio or loft style apartment or condominium, but increase the size.
With rising interest rates, higher home prices, and the overall cost of living, many home buyers are looking for alternative living options. Barndominiums are becoming more mainstream as people begin to appreciate the versatility in their design and function while being economical, low maintenance, and energy efficient.
The interior living area can include the same comfort and amenities you would find in a regular home from the basics of plumbing and electricity to the more luxurious including a second story, open floor plan, great room or family room, vaulted ceiling, and even a wrap-around porch or deck.
The working area of a barndominium can include anything from a simple storage warehouse to a large workshop. The working space can be customized to meet your needs and the type of business you have.
How Long Does It Take To Build A Barndominium?
Barndominiums can take up to 6 months to build. However, just like with a conventional home, a barndominium’s construction time depends on various factors such as the size and customization level. The building process on a simple barn home can be done in just a matter of weeks.
In general, barndominiums are much quicker to build and can often be done in half the time as a traditional house.
How Much is a Barndominium?
The cost of a barndominium varies almost as much as the cost of a house. Factors that go into the cost of a barndominium include:
- Quality of materials and finishes being used
- Labor charges
- Custom features
- Location
- Size
- Construction material pricing (price surges due to shortages)
With barndos, you have the option to purchase a basic barndominium kit, which only includes the essential components of the walls and roof, or a complete turnkey barndo. Turnkey barndominiums include every detail you would need or want such as cabinetry, windows and flooring.
The price of construction materials, such as steel, have been volatile over 2021 into 2022 due to material shortages. As a result, construction pricing has been harder to predict as it is constantly changing.
What are the Advantages of a Barndominium?
Affordability
Barndominiums offer exceptional value on a per square foot basis, and are exceptionally beneficial for large families or when a business requires a large workspace. They also have lower insurance rates and taxes.
Is a Barndominium Cheaper than a House?
In most cases, yes! One of a barndominiums biggest benefits is its affordability compared to a traditional home. Depending on the area, barndominiums can be half the price of a regular home.
Longevity
Barndominiums enjoy the same benefits as metal roofing and siding, which includes their longevity.
How Long Do Barndominiums Last?
As long as you keep up with the occasional maintenance of the roof and siding, you can expect to enjoy your barndominium for 50+ years.
Durability
By being made out of metal, barndominiums have similar durability to steel structures with resistance to:
- Mold
- Mildew
- Rot
- Termites
- Extreme weather
- Fire
Flexibility
There are endless possibilities when it comes to the design and function of a barndominium. When choosing to construct a fully custom barndo, you can control the size of your living vs work area and design your workspace to be anything like:
- Garage
- Shop
- Greenhouse
- Warehouse
What are the Disadvantages of a Barndominium?
Financing For Barndominiums Is Harder To Find
Finding a loan for a barndominium is more difficult than getting approved for a mortgage for a traditional home. This is because a barndominium is still viewed as a barn and not considered a primary residence in the eyes of many lenders. This makes the appraisal process more complex as there usually aren’t many comparable sales to use.
Custom Barndominiums Might Be Difficult to Resell
A barndominium is not a conventional home, so while they are gaining popularity, they still don’t appeal to the overall market. Since they are a niche market with a floor plan that is customized to each owner’s specifications, it may be difficult to sell in the future if you decide.
Zoning Restrictions For Barndominiums
Finding a location to build your metal barndominium can be difficult. Barndominiums are often not allowed in cities and towns due to building regulations. They are more common to find in rural areas where the building code is more relaxed.
Interested in building a Barndominium? Contact La Pera’s General Contracting! La Pera’s General Contracting in Panama City and Tampa Florida has a team of professional and licensed contractors experienced in every area of construction, from remodeling to new construction! We are equipped to help you make the right decision for your home, or barndominium, and for your budget. We strive to give our clients options, as well as sound advice based on solutions that work. If you have questions about your construction project, call La Pera’s General Contracting today! We will provide you with a detailed inspection and estimate by a professional contractor.
