How Can I Reduce the Cost of New Construction?

If you are building a home, you have likely run into this challenge: you have your vision in mind. You know what you want – but your dream doesn’t align with your budget! It is frustrating and stressful, to say the least. But there are ways to reduce construction costs so that you can move into your dream home without busting your budget.

Lowering Construction Costs: Three Methods to Consider 

1. Scale Down

Cutting the scope of your project is the most effective way to reduce construction costs. It can involve a reduction in the overall square footage, or it may mean eliminating different spaces or features. This doesn’t mean you have to strip your home design down to the bare bones – but it does mean considering more efficient floor plans to utilize space optimally and to cut costs. If you eliminate just 100 square feet, you will require less excavation, site work, foundation work, framing, finishing, insulation, roofing… the savings add up.

2. Simplify 

If you have a complicated floor plan, tall ceilings, intricate trim packages, elaborate decks, and other exacting elements, consider simplifying them. Complexity takes time – and money – to execute. Can you reduce the number of corners in your design? Can you make your footprint more streamlined? If you were planning a 2,000 square foot one-story house, for example, what if you reduce your footprint with a two-story home? This means less site work, foundation work, etc.

3. Look for Cost-Effective Materials 

This could be as simple as swapping out those pricey granite counter tops for tile or as involved as changing your wall system from structural insulated panels (SIPs) to stick framing. Now, going with cheaper materials is a questionable tactic for lowering construction costs for a few reasons:

• You don’t want to sacrifice quality or durability – which will cost you more in the long run.
• Safety and stability may be impacted with substandard materials. Your builder should always advise you of any issues like this.
• Some materials may be less energy efficient – which also costs you in the long run! 
• Labor costs are the same. So, for example, even if you opt for the less expensive tiles for your counter top, you still pay the same amount for them to be installed. 

Still, some changes can help reduce your overall budgets. Be sure to ask your South Florida home builder for guidance.

Synergy Homes is committed to making your dream home a reality. We will work with you to understand your vision and your budget and help you create a design that will satisfy the needs of both.