How Much a Square Foot? The Right Answer!

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve fielded calls  asking how much it costs to build a house per square foot. Here is the only correct answer to that question… I don't know! The specifics of what is being built can make the same 3000 square foot house vary by more than $50 per sq foot! For example just last week, I was having cabinets quoted from 3 different companies we work with. The prices ranged from $45,000 to $90,000. 

Which is why choosing a builder who insists on preplanning and getting into the details makes all the difference. If a builder hands you a price estimate based solely on a floor plan, it should raise serious red flags. Here’s why.

1. A Floor Plan Doesn’t Tell the Full Story

A two-dimensional floor plan only shows layout—not the materials, finishes, structural details, or build complexity. Without understanding the full scope, any price given is just a guess, not an accurate estimate.

2. Unrealistic Pricing Leads to Cost Overruns

Builders who provide vague, floor-plan-based pricing often lure clients in with low estimates, only for costs to balloon once selections and specifications are finalized. The result? A project that ends up significantly over budget.

3. Site Conditions Matter

Every piece of land has unique characteristics—soil conditions, grading requirements, access challenges—that directly impact costs. A price without a site evaluation ignores these critical factors, putting you at risk for unexpected expenses.

4. Quality and Materials Are Undefined

A price without a detailed scope doesn’t account for the quality of materials or craftsmanship. Are you getting builder-grade finishes or high-end selections? Without clarity, you may be comparing apples to oranges.

5. A Reliable Builder Uses a Detailed Pre-Construction Process

A trustworthy builder follows a structured approach—like The Six Arrows Blueprint™—that includes:

• A thorough consultation to understand your vision.

• A site assessment to uncover potential challenges.

• A detailed budgeting and selection process to finalize pricing before construction begins.

The Bottom Line: Demand More Than a Guess

A reputable builder won’t throw out numbers without doing the necessary due diligence. If someone offers a price based on just a floor plan, question it. Instead, look for a builder who prioritizes transparency, planning, and accuracy.

Thinking of building? Let’s start with a real plan. Contact us today to schedule your Initial Consultation.