One of the most frequently asked questions we receive with building homes is: “What is the cost per square foot?”

‘True cost per square foot’ cannot be properly calculated until your builder has identified absolutely every cost associated with your build, including plans, building materials, labor, bids from subcontractors, lot prep, interior finishes, etc.

Calculating Cost Per Square Foot

It’s very difficult and confusing to cover EVERY single way builders figure out cost per square foot.
We take Total Cost of The Home/ LIVABLE Square Feet of The Home to calculate square foot price.

Keep in mind: Livable square feet does NOT include porches, garages, driveways, attics, etc.

Why Cost Per Square Feet Can Be Misleading

Clarity is CRUCIAL when deciphering cost per square feet.

For Example: We can build a 2,000 sq foot home with a 100 sq foot porch and a standard garage. OR, we can build a 2,000 sq foot home with a 800 sq foot porch and a three car garage. Even though they both are 2,000 sq feet homes, the second home will be more expensive on a square foot basis.

We Understand

We understand why its tempting as home buyers to ask that question, because budget and cost is important. But relying on “cost per square foot” is an unreliable measure.

In the home building industry, there is no official standard for what constitutes a ‘square foot’.

You do need to clarify how your home builder calculates the cost per square foot. Once you have that, you’ll still want to have a detailed conversation about the build cost.

Every home builder is different, but we here at Kerns Family Construction always sit down with our customers and detail the costs associated with their project or build, and are there for you every step of the way.

Communication before, during, and after the process is key!