Get matched with top pole barn builders in Stuttgart, AR

In some cases, a detached garage can be considered extra living space, but you will need to gain permission and comply with your local building code. Depending on where you live, you may need permits for a variety of installations, including electrical work, plumbing, and structural work. Many homeowners make the mistake of converting a garage into a living space without acquiring permits, which can result in hefty fines and even the removal of your hard work. Furthermore, a detached garage doesn’t add to the livable square footage of your home when it’s time to sell.

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.

If you're handy, you may want to take on building a garage as a do-it-yourself project. However, whether it's a good idea to build a garage on your own or not depends on the type of structure you want to build and local permitting laws. If you want to work with a pre-fab structure, you may be able to DIY. However, if laying a foundation is involved, you're better off working with a professional builder.

Costs depend on the size of the garage, material quality, and additional features like lighting or workbenches.