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Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Best Places to Build a Barndominium
When constructing a barndominium, finding the best location is paramount. The best places to build a barndominium offer a blend of favorable construction laws, natural beauty, and economic stability.
- Location: Consider the surrounding environment, climate, and proximity to amenities.
- Land Price: Affordable land prices can significantly reduce the cost of building.
- Building Regulations: States with lenient regulations facilitate easier construction of barndominiums.
- Climate: A region’s weather patterns will affect the comfort and durability of a barndominium.
- Outdoor Activities: A location with access to recreational activities can add value.
If you’ve researched the ever-popular alternative housing movement, barndominiums may already be on your radar.
They’re one of the best options for crafting a dream home without breaking the bank or damaging the environment. Before drafting a barn home floor plan, knowing what places you should and shouldn’t be living the barndominium life is essential.
Where Can’t You Build a Barndominium?
Before making a list of dream barndominium locations, it’s essential to know where not to put one. Although there is no “no barndominiums” law in any state, every region has different building rules and regulations.
Depending on where you live and the size of your barndominum, you’ll likely need approval to build the new structure.
Building codes can be tricky to navigate, but they help ensure that new homes are safe and fit for living. They cover everything from the size of the building and materials to electrical and plumbing work.
Those who can’t get approval must look for alternative barndo spots.
Failing to check building codes in your area is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when building a barndominium.
You may face fines if you forget to get those necessary approvals or follow required building regulations. In a worst-case scenario, ignoring building codes could mean tearing down your barndo entirely and starting over once you’ve gotten approval.
Luckily, this mistake is easily avoidable by doing online research or consulting with a contractor to learn more about building rules in your local region.
Another issue many barndominium buyers come across is problems with the home site. Before assembling the foundation, it may be necessary to prepare the ground.
Leveling the site’s ground ensures the soil can strongly support a foundation. The foundation could slowly sink or shift over time if the ground is uneven or the soil is not compact enough.
Once the home is built and lived in, foundation problems are costly and difficult to fix. In some scenarios, repairing a damaged foundation is not worth the cost. To avoid these issues before they start, experts should be allowed to test and inspect the land with a soil test.
So, what if you don’t even have land yet? Unless you plan on crafting on barndo on your own land, you’ll need to find an ideal spot.
Barn homes are typically built in rural areas and are becoming a common sight as you head out of cities and into the countryside. It’s important to note that creating metal homes in some urban areas may not be an option.
While you’re land shopping, please pay attention to the size of the lot, proximity to amenities, location of your neighbors (whether you want them right next door or out of your hair), and home placement.
If you place it too close to the edge of the property, creating a long driveway may be an issue. Building the home too far back could hinder the ability to have a backyard.
Best Places to Build and Buy Barndominiums
Now that you know what land qualities to look for and how to avoid getting fined, let’s consider some of the best locations for optimizing barndominium life.
You’ll need to consider the key differences across each area, including cost, laws, and required planning for your barn home. Keep reading to discover some of the barndo owners’ favorite places to reside.
Barndominium Michigan Style
Michigan is one of the most stunning areas in the United States for barndominium building and buying. A large amount of land is available across many areas of the state, making it easy to find your ideal location.
You’ll also enjoy all four seasons and the state’s breathtaking lakes. Barn homes are ideal for Michigan winters since they are sturdy and can withstand even the harshest storms.
Let’s review the cost of Michigan barndos. While traditional homes typically cost upwards of $130-$220 per square foot, barndos are cheaper at around $100 per square foot.
If DIYing doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of barndominium builders in Michigan. Check out KAB Construction, accredited by the Better Business Bureau since July 2020.
Other talented builders include Michindoh Builders, DC Builders, Pole Barn Living, and more. If you’re looking for a turnkey solution, several barndominiums are for sale in Michigan.
California Barndominiums
If ice-cold winters and lakeside views aren’t what you want, let’s head west to the Golden State instead. Perhaps you’ve wondered, “Are barndominiums legal in California?”.
Well, today is your lucky day! Barndominiums are a great way to capitalize on Cali’s tiny home and alternative housing movement. These houses are ideal for California weather because they remain challenging, even in adverse weather conditions.
The metal exterior pairs perfectly with the dry, desert-type climate. Metal makes the home much easier to clean than other houses with wood slat siding or brick. Thank your barndominium later when your yearly patience work is cut in half.
California isn’t known for being the cheapest place to live. Fortunately, barn homes are an excellent hack for maintaining an eco-friendly and affordable lifestyle.
While most homes in Cali will cost buyers around $400+ per square foot, barndos are cheaper, starting at only $260. This state has a great list of barn house builders, including Solid Structures, Spane Buildings, and Neos Construction.
There are banks and investors in several states who understand how difficult it can be to get the ball rolling on a big project like crafting a barndominium.
Regarding financing the new home, some lenders in California have your back. Head to AgLenders Society, a nonprofit focused on helping people realize their agricultural dreams.
They work closely with ambitious people like you to raise money to finance land, construction, and other projects. Other financiers include the Bank of the Sierra. Save that extra cash and return it to the home for awesome upgrades.
Texas Barndominiums
What better place to build a rustic dream home than in the land of Sothern country dreams? The charming and vintage curb appeal of barndominiums suits the Lone Star State perfectly.
A Texas barndominium will provide all the old-school vibes, while the interior is suitable for futuristic style lovers and modern dwellers. This state offers all the land you need to craft your dream barn home.
With a barndominium, save money for delicious eats and fun nightlife instead of housing in Texas.
Barndos will typically be between $80 and $120 per square foot. To keep the numbers low, pitch in and get your hands dirty once it’s time to build instead of contracting everything out.
Luckily, you won’t have to worry too much about barndominium taxes in Texas. They’re taxed the same as traditional homes, so if you’re familiar with that process, it’ll be nothing new.
When it comes time to build, contractors can help create a floor plan that works with your plot of land. Some of the best barndo builders in Texas include HL Custom Homes, CMW General Contractors, and Tri Country Builders.
There’s nothing like moving into your barn home after expert builders do all the hard stuff. If you’re looking for a barndominium for sale in Texas, the state already has some excellent pre-built options.
Barndominium Virginia Style
Looking for a nice, quiet place to nestle your beautiful barndominium? Virginia could be the perfect place for building a simple barn home. It’s known for its rural, off-the-grid lifestyle options.
If you’re new to the area, no worries! Contractors can have your barndo up and running in just a few weeks so that you can explore Virginia’s rich history and lush nature.
Living in Virginia is a bit more affordable than in other states. Traditional homes typically cost about $210 per square foot.
Crunch the numbers even more with a barndominium, which costs about $160 less per square foot. There are several contractors in Virginia to help prep, plan, and facilitate building your dream home.
Some of the state’s most popular builders include Superior Buildings and We Build Barns.
When it comes time to get financial assistance, contact F&M Bank and Farm Credit of the Virginias. Just do a quick “barndominium for sale near me” search, and you’ll have a breathtaking Virginia home to enjoy in no time!
Barndominium Washington State Life
Is your ultimate goal to be more environmentally conscious and protect the planet? Building a barndominium in Washington could be the lifestyle shift you need.
The state is known for its low-carbon energy system, making it great for those desiring a more natural life. Not to mention the endless stunning scenery: expansive coastline, mountains, rainforests, and deserts galore.
Traditional homes in Washington State are usually around $172 per square foot.
A basic barndominium shell can range between $20 and $40 per square foot. Washington even offers ways to get financial assistance or loans on barndo building if the project is weighing a bit too heavily on your wallet.
Check out Farm Plus Financial, an agricultural bank dedicated to the farming community. Once you’ve got the funds and it’s time to build, Cordis LLC, Solid Structures, and Spane Buildings are some of the most notable Washington contractors.
Barndominium Oregon Style
Oregon is quickly becoming one of the most booming and bustling states to migrate to. With no sales tax and a booming economy, thriving while saving funds has never been more accessible for citizens.
In addition to financial abundance, Oregon residents enjoy beautiful seasons and 300 days of sunny weather. Unsurprisingly, barndominium builders are racing to find land in this epic state.
Save even more money in Oregon by finding a barndominium for sale over a traditional home. Barn homes usually cost about $30 less per square foot than usual homes, not to mention the reduced building time.
Oregon Farm Link and Northwest Farm Credit Services are lenders that would be happy to hear your pitch and help with the project where they can.
When it’s time to get the project rolling, contact Ironwood Structures or DC Buildings for quality construction.
Barndominium Florida Style
Perhaps sunny weather is your jam, but all four seasons? Not so much. Those wishing for warm weather and sunshine all year should build a barndominium in Florida.
It’s one of the best ways to enjoy the state’s hustling and bustling attractions while still having a quiet place to wind down at the end. Florida’s diverse population and scenery will provide the best environment for barndo life lovers.
Barndominiums are an accessible and affordable home option in Florida. While traditional homes can cost buyers up to $142 per square foot, basic barndos will be only $20-$30 per square foot.
If those prices aren’t within your budget, there’s no need to worry. For home financing, contact Farm Credit of Northwest Florida or Farm Bureau Bank.
CC Welding & Construction, Cantrell’s Construction, and Greene Construction will all be helpful contractors during the build. Soon, you’ll enjoy jam-packed days at Disney and quiet nights away from the hectic Floridian world.
Barndominium Idaho Style
If your family is looking for a state with low living costs and stunning scenery, look no further than Idaho. Its booming job market and economy make it a lovely location for newcomers.
It’s one of the safest places to live and has cheaper home insurance than the national average. Enjoy Idaho’s natural attractions and vast seasons with barndominium life.
Finding land to build your barn home won’t be an issue in Idaho. There are lots of open, even land that’s perfect for barndominiums.
Usually costing only $20-$30 per square foot, barndos are a less expensive alternative to traditional homes. Special companies are also there to assist with the financial side of barndominium building.
If getting adequate funds for the project is an issue, contact Idaho AgCredit or Ireland Bank.
Once the building begins, most locals recommend constructing with Morton Buildings, CDA Structures, or Steel Design, Inc. You’ll adore searching for a “barndominium near me” in Idaho.
What Size are most Barndominiums?
Barndominiums, affectionately known as ‘barndos,’ typically feature a lofted open space that offers numerous design and functionality options.
The flexible design allows for adjustments during construction, such as moving walls to alter the layout or room sizes.
While barndos can vary significantly in size based on personal preferences and requirements, the average size of a barndominium tends to hover around 2,200 square feet, according to industry expert Sherin.
This provides ample space for both living and storage areas.
Final Words
Choosing the best places to build a barndominium requires thoughtful consideration of several factors. Firstly, the surrounding environment is integral to the quality of life within the barndominium, as it influences the aesthetic appeal and overall living experience.
Secondly, the region’s climate can affect the comfort and durability of the structure. A moderate climate is conducive to a comfortable living environment and reduces wear and tear on the building.
The price of the land is another crucial factor, as affordable land prices can significantly reduce the overall cost of building a barndominium. Therefore, regions with reasonable real estate prices should be given priority.
Also, building regulations vary from state to state, so it is essential to consider states with lenient regulations for a smoother construction process.
Lastly, proximity to amenities and access to outdoor activities can add significant value to your barndominium.
Close to shopping centers, schools, and hospitals can enhance convenience. At the same time, areas that offer recreational activities like hiking trails, lakes, or beaches can provide an added advantage for lifestyle enrichment.
Thus, carefully considering these factors can help determine the best places to build a barndominium.
With all these incredible barn home locations, finding your ideal home state has never been easier. Hopefully, searching “barndominium homes for sale near me” will allow you to facilitate your dream home project.
For more info on all things barndos, outdoor living, and nature exploration, don’t forget to check out content from Crow Survival.
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