Building Your Own Home in Oregon

Building your dream home in Oregon is an exciting prospect, but it comes with its fair share of considerations. From budgeting to permits, there’s a lot to think about. In this guide, we’ll delve into the costs and factors to consider when embarking on a home construction project in the Beaver State.

Average Home Building Costs in Oregon

The average cost to build a house in Oregon ranges from $200,000 to $350,000, with an average of $340,580. Keep in mind that this figure excludes land costs, permit fees, excavations, and other expenses. These costs can potentially push the total well into the millions, depending on customizations and build type.

Construction Costs by Square Footage

The cost per square foot to build a house in Oregon averages around $170. Below is a breakdown of construction costs based on different home sizes:

• 1,000 sq. ft.: $170,000
• 1,500 sq. ft.: $255,000
• 2,000 sq. ft.: $340,000
• 2,500 sq. ft.: $425,000
• 3,000 sq. ft.: $510,000

City-wise Breakdown

The costs of building a house in popular Oregon cities vary. Here’s a glimpse:

• Eugene: $110 per sq. ft.
• Portland: $135 per sq. ft.
• Bend: $135 per sq. ft.

Breakdown of Building Costs

Hard Costs:

1. Material Cost: $147,500 (Approximately 50% of overall building cost)
2. Contractor Charges: 10% – 20% of total construction value
3. Electrical Costs: $7,500 – $12,500
4. Roof Installation Costs: $3,500 – $39,700
5. Plumbing Costs: $12,000
6. HVAC Installation Costs: $12,500

Soft Costs:

1. Land Cost: Average price per acre is $6,503, plus preparation costs of $1,500 – $3,000.
2. Oregon Home Building Permit Costs: Approximately $5,000
3. Home Interiors: Budget at least $20,000 for furnishings.
4. Home Interior Designer Costs: Average of $5,400

Financing Your Home Construction

If you don’t have the funds upfront, consider these financing options:

1. Home Construction Loan: Choose between a Construction-to-Permanent Loan or a Construction-only Loan.
2. Personal Loan: Useful for financing specific parts of the construction process.
3. Home Equity Loan: Ideal for homeowners looking to use the equity in their existing property.

Is Building Your Own House in Oregon the Right Choice?

If you already own land in a desirable location, building your own home can be a rewarding experience. However, budget at least 9 to 12 months for planning and construction. On the other hand, if you don’t own land or prefer a quicker move-in, exploring turnkey homes might be a better option.

Conclusion

Building a home in Oregon is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and budgeting. While it offers the opportunity for customization, it’s essential to weigh the costs and time investment against the convenience of buying an existing property. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your preferences, budget, and timeline.