Building a custom home is a big deal, whether it be a traditional build or a barndominium. There are a lot of questions that come up when deciding to make that big step. Check out the answers to our most popular questions asked by our former clients below.
How much does a building cost?
Costs for a build can range drastically with many factors that will affect the final price:
- Shop Size & Electrical Needs
- Wall Heights
- Patio SIze
- Interior Layout
- Finish-out
- Living Area
- Natural Lighting
- and more
Entry Level:
Basic build price will typically start off at $130 per sq ft. This price reflects no shop space, a minimal deck space, minimal standard windows, single story, basic fixtures and entry level cabinets.
Mid-Level:
Mid-level with some upgraded features can be in the $150-200+ range. Not included in this price is any build prep needs such as land clearing, entry way, bringing in utilities, and septic.
What is the typical time frame?
9-month estimated build time from a signed build contract
Before starting the building, we do our phase 1 contract which entails completing the design, layouts, and floor plans. Phase 1-time frames range from 4 weeks to several months all depending on client’s response time and decision making. We work to bring form, function, and value to our clients. At RK Central, we pride ourselves in bringing our clients dream home to life while also working to stay in their budget.
In what areas do you build?
We build in the Hill, Bosque, and Johnson Counties of Texas.
Do you coordinate installation of utilities (electric, internet, etc.)?
Utilities often provide incentives to new customers, which can reduce construction costs. Additionally, most utilities require the account to be opened by the owner rather than the builder. Assistance with utilities and contact information will be provided. Coordination with utilities will also be facilitated when possible.
Do you have any model homes that I can visit?
Depending on what we have available at the time of tour, we can schedule walk-throughs.
Current Available Tours:
- “Shop” (our first completed build)
- One Completed Build
- Build Under Construction
Should I buy land first? What if I don’t have land to build on yet? What should I know before I buy land to build on?
RK Central’s Available Lots in the Whitney Area:
- <10 acre lots
- 10 acre lots
If you already have land, we can help with deciding build location and utility options. If you are looking for land and our inventory of properties do not match your needs, we can build on land you acquire in our operation area (Hill, Bosque, and Johnson County)
Can I save money by utilizing an existing plan instead of custom designing my own home?
We will still need to go through a phase 1 design regardless of existing plans. Any plans or drawings you have already come up with will help us come to a final design quicker. We do not recommend buying plans before coming to us as it adds an extra unnecessary cost. There are free options and reference materials available to help choice what elements you would like in your own build. At RK Central, we work with you to design complete custom designs that we can build from. We typically charge $2000-$3500 to design and plan your build depending on size and complexity of the design. We also take into consideration how complete a design you bring to use.
What is your design process?
First Step: Meet Us
We typically schedule an in-person meeting to discuss your goals in the build, your wants & needs, and budget. Our goal is to get the broad stroke you are looking for in your home. This will help us to start working on the general layout.
Second Step: Design Phase
We correspond through email, phone and in person as needed to finalize a custom design tailored to your needs.
Custom Design includes copies of:
- Elevation View
- Room Layout
- Electrical Layout
- Window & Door Schedule
- Building Quote
The time frame for a completed design ranges from as quick as a couple of weeks to several months. Our goal is to capture your dream home and put it into a form that we can build from.
Timeline Factors Include:
- Complexity of Design
- Completion of Design You Prepared (if applicable)
- Your Response Time with Design Questions/Changes
Typical cost for a custom design is $2000-$3500.
What size home should I build?
The size of your home will depend on your wants, needs, priorities, and budget.
For Example:
- Needs: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, shop, larger living space
- Consider: 35-foot by 70-foot building that has 1750 square foot living with an attached 700 square foot shop.
During our design, we can help you determine what size home works best for you.
How do I get financing to build a home?
We recommend using lenders that are local to the area. They have guidelines more suited to the area. Local lenders are more familiar with local regulations and more tailored to builds in rural areas.
What permits will I need? Can you help me get them?
It is up to the property owner to provide any restrictions that are connected to the property. We can help finding restrictions and assist in getting permits approved. However, it is up to the home/property owner to ensure compliance.