Best Places to Build a Barndominium
If you’ve done any looking into the ever-so-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, it’s essential to know what places you should, and shouldn’t, be living the barndominium life.
Where Can’t You Build a Barndominium?
Before making a list of dream barndominium locations, it’s important to know where not to put one. Although you won’t find a “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 get around, but they help ensure that new homes are safe and fit for living. They cover everything, from the size of your building and materials to electrical and plumbing work. Those who can’t get approval will need to 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. If you forget to get those necessary approvals or follow required building regulations, you may face fines. 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 some 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 that the soil can support a foundation strongly. If the ground is uneven or the soil is not compact enough, the foundation could slowly sink or shift over time.
Once the home is built and lived in, foundation problems are costly and difficult to fix. In some scenarios, fixing a damaged foundation is not even worth the cost. To avoid these issues before they start, allow experts to test and inspect the land with a soil test.
So, what if you don’t even have land yet? Unless you’re planning on crafting on barndo on land you already own, 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, 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 placement of the home. 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 find out some of bardo 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. There’s a large amount of land available across many areas of the state, making it easy to find your ideal location. Not to mention, you’ll get to enjoy all four seasons, as well as the state’s breathtaking lakes. Barn homes are ideal for Michigan winters since the sturdy home can withstand even the harshest of storms.
Let’s review the cost of Michigan barndos. While traditional homes will typically cost upwards of $150-$200 per square foot, barndos are cheaper at around $90 per square foot. There are plenty of barndominium builders in Michigan if DIYing doesn’t seem like your cup of tea. Check out KAB Construction, who has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau since July of 2020.
Other talented builders include Michindoh Builders, DC Builders, Pole Barn Living, and more. If you’re looking for a turn-key solution, there are several barndominiums for sale in Michigan.
California Barndominiums
If ice-cold winters and lakeside views aren’t what you’re looking for, let’s head out west to the Golden State instead. Perhaps you’ve been wondering, “are barndominiums legal in California?”. Well, today is your lucky day! Barndominiums are a great way to capitalize on the tiny home and alternative housing movement in Cali. These types of houses are ideal for California weather because they remain tough, even in adverse weather conditions.
The metal exterior pairs perfectly with the dry, desert-type climate. Metal makes the home much easier to clean off 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 in the world to live. Fortunately, barn homes are a great hack for maintaining an eco-friendly and affordable lifestyle. While most homes in Cali will cost buyers around $200+ per square foot, barndos are cheaper at only $130. 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 that understand how difficult it can be to get the ball rolling on a big project like crafting a barndominium. As far as financing the new home, some lenders in California have got your back. Head to AgLenders Society, a nonprofit that is focused on helping people get their agricultural dreams rolling.
They work closely with go-getters like you to get the money they need for financing land, construction, and other projects. Other financers include the Bank of the Sierra. Save that extra cash and put it back into 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 could need to craft your dream barn home.
With a barndominium, save your money for delicious eats and fun nightlife instead of housing in Texas. Barn homes cost significantly less than traditional ones, with a basic small cottage costing only $40 per square foot. More complex barndos will typically be between $100-$150 per square foot. Keep the numbers low by pitching in and getting 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 assist with creating a floor plan that’ll work 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 right 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 awesome 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 you can head out and explore Virginia’s rich history and lush nature.
Living in Virginia is a bit more affordable compared to other states. Traditional homes typically only cost about $125 per square foot. Crunch the numbers even more with a barndominium, which costs about $25 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, reach out to 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 $150 per square foot. Barndominium builders can save money on housing, since they’re typically only $115 per square foot. Washington even offers ways to get financial assistance or loans on barndo building if the project is weighing a bit too heavy on your wallet.
Check out Farm Plus Financial; they’re 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 also saving funds, has never been easier for citizens. In addition to financial abundance, Oregon residents get to enjoy beautiful seasons and 300 days of sunny weather. It’s no surprise that 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 $35 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 out with the project where they can.
When it’s time to get the project rolling, reach out to 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 of it all. 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 $200 per square foot, basic barndos will be only $100-$120 per square foot. If those prices still aren’t meeting your budget, there’s no need to worry. Reach out to the Farm Credit of Northwest Florida or Farm Bureau Bank for home financing.
CC Welding & Construction, Cantrell’s Construction, and Greene Construction will all be helpful and accommodating contractors during the build. Soon, you’ll be enjoying jam-packed days at Disney, and quiet nights away from the hectic Floridian world.
Barndominium Idaho Style
If your family is in search of a state with low living costs and stunning scenery, look no further than Idaho. Their booming job market and the economy is making it a lovely location for newcomers. It’s known as 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 is lots of open, even land that’s perfect for barndominiums. Usually costing only $99 per square foot, barndos are a less expensive alternative to traditional homes. There are also special companies who are there to assist with the financial side of barndominium building.
If getting adequate funds for the project is an issue, reach out to Idaho AgCredit or Ireland Bank. Once the building process 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.
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 finally 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.
