Get matched with top pole barn builders in Kensett, AR

Ranch and colonial-style homes are often the most affordable to build. They have a common layout with available designs that are easy to adjust in simple ways without having to spend too much on a structural engineer or architect. Both types of homes' symmetry, simple roofs, and often one or two-story plans mean they often fall in the $150 to $200 square-foot range, putting them right around average.

Framing tends to be the longest step in the construction process, especially for larger homes. It takes anywhere from one week to a couple of months, depending on the house size, the number of people on the construction crew, and the time of year. The design stage often takes a long time, too. Some people spend months or even years contemplating their house’s size, layout, and materials before construction begins.

For a garage to count as living space—and towards your home’s total square footage—it needs to be attached to the rest of your home and have permanent finishings such as proper insulation, finished walls and ceilings, and adequate ventilation. It also needs to be livable at all times of the year, so it should be heated if it gets cold in the winter and cooled for hot summers.

The requirement for building permits varies by location, but most building departments will require permits for any changes to the structural components of a home. They’ll also require them for changes to the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC components, as well as any permanent improvements to the land, including concrete patios or foundations for additions or outbuildings. You also might need permits for things like roof replacement and window replacement, depending on your local government.