Building vs Buying: Is Constructing Your Dream Home Worth It in Nevada
Deciding between building or buying a home in Nevada is a significant choice, one that involves careful consideration of costs, time, and personal preferences. In this guide, we’ll delve into the details of both options to help you make an informed decision. From average costs to financing options, we’ve got you covered.
Average Cost to Build a House in Nevada:
The average cost to build a house in Nevada hovers around $167 per square foot. However, this figure doesn’t include land expenses, permit fees, excavations, and other associated costs. On average, homeowners spend 9 to 12 months constructing their homes.
Framing Lumber is the Highest Material Cost:
Framing a 2,000 sq. ft. home can cost approximately $33,000, making it a significant portion of the overall budget.
Factors That Can Influence Building Costs:
Rising material costs, expensive labor, and supply chain issues can potentially increase your house-building expenses. Staying informed about market trends is crucial.
Home Building Financing Options:
Various financing options are available, including construction loans, USDA construction loans, and VA construction loans. Each comes with its own set of advantages, so it’s essential to explore all options.
Buying a House vs Building:
Buying an existing home is generally cheaper than building a new one. However, building offers the advantage of customization to meet your specific needs and preferences.
How Much Does it Cost to Build a House in Nevada?
- Average Home Building Costs in Nevada: $334,140
- Minimum (800 sq. ft.): $133,600
- Maximum (5,000 sq. ft.): $835,000
- Average Range: $200,000- $400,000
Cost by Square Footage:
- 1,000 sq. ft. – $167,000
- 1,500 sq. ft. – $250,500
- 2,000 sq. ft. – $334,000
- 2,500 sq. ft. – $417,500
- 3,000 sq. ft. – $501,000
Cost by Cities:
- Reno: $160 per sq. ft.
- Las Vegas: $150 per sq. ft.
Hard Costs vs Soft Costs: Hard costs involve direct expenses related to construction, including materials, contractor fees, electrical, roofing, plumbing, and HVAC installation. Soft costs cover permits, land, permit fees, and interior furnishings.
Land and Permit Costs:
- Land Cost: Averaging around $2,116 per acre in Nevada, purchasing land is a significant upfront expense. Additionally, you’ll need to allocate funds for land preparation.
- Permit Costs: Building permits, vital for the construction process, vary per county. Costs depend on factors like construction type, occupancy, and project scope. For example, a building permit can range from $1,000 to $2,000.
Home Interiors: Budgeting for interior furnishings, including furniture, electronics, utensils, and bathroom essentials, is crucial. For a 2,500 sq. ft. home, allocate at least $20,000 for interior furnishings.
Home Interior Designer Costs: Hiring an interior designer, if needed, can add an average cost of $5,400. This professional can help with 3D views, renderings, and maximizing space utilization.
House Building Financing Options:
- Home Construction Loan: Options include Construction-to-Permanent Loan and Construction-only Loan, which cover land purchase and home building costs.
- Personal Loan: This option can cover specific parts of the construction process, helpful for unexpected expenses.
- Home Equity Loan: If you already own a property, consider leveraging your existing equity to finance the construction.
Conclusion:
Building your dream home in Nevada is an exciting but complex endeavor. Consider your budget, timeline, and personal preferences carefully. Whether you choose to build or buy, remember that both options have their own set of advantages and trade-offs. Make your decision based on what aligns best with your vision and resources.