The Cost of Building a House in Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho

Building a new house is an adventure filled with excitement and nerves, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you're considering building a home in Eastern Washington or Northern Idaho, understanding the key cost factors will help you navigate this journey. Let's delve into the aspects that influence the cost of building a house in this region.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Building in Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho:

1. Site:

The land on which your home will be built plays a crucial role in determining the cost. Consider these factors when selecting the right spot for your new home:

- Availability of utilities like gas, water, and electricity.

- Whether the site is ready for construction or requires preparations.

- Size of the lot needed for your home.

- Whether the lot is already occupied or vacant.

Securing a suitable site for your home can range from $75,000 to $500,000. If you already own the land, you can exclude this cost from your budget.

2. Location:

The geographical location in Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho can impact construction costs. Factors that come into play include:

- Proximity to major cities and urban areas.

- Quality of school districts in the area.

- Local taxes and regulations.

- Availability of amenities in the vicinity.

High-growth areas in small markets generally have higher construction costs compared to low-growth areas in larger markets.

3. Design:

Collaborating with a design professional, such as an architect or designer, is essential for creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing home. The cost for architectural services is usually around 10% of the total construction budget. Additionally, expenses for engineers, permits, fees, demolition, and site development typically amount to 5-10% of the budget.

4. Building:

The construction process is where your dream home takes shape. For Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho, the cost to build a house can vary based on factors like energy performance and modern building techniques. As of recent years, the starting cost per square foot has ranged from $350 to $450 in Eastern Washington and $500 to $600 in Northern Idaho.

Keep in mind that these estimates are general starting points and do not encompass design fees, finishes, permitting, taxes, etc. A more comprehensive estimate can be obtained by sharing your plans with a project supervisor.

5. Current Real Estate Trends:

Real estate trends heavily influence construction costs. High demand and limited supply can drive up property prices, making it essential to consider current market conditions while budgeting for your home.

6. "Soft" Costs:

These expenses occur during and after the construction process and go beyond labor and building materials. Soft costs include architecture, design, engineering, accounting, permits, taxes, and post-construction property upkeep fees (e.g., HOA fees).

Sample Estimate for Building in Eastern Washington or Northern Idaho:

For instance, let's consider a 2,500 square foot house with a base cost of $1,000,000 (at $400 per square foot). Adding approximately 15% for "soft costs" brings the total to $1,150,000. This cost should be combined with the site/land cost to arrive at the final budget. Keep in mind that every project is unique, with its own location-specific challenges and goals.

Selecting the Right Builders:

When embarking on this significant investment, choosing the right builders is paramount. In Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho, Big Blue stands out as a reputable choice for residential construction. With decades of experience and a dedicated team of skilled craftspeople and project managers, Big Blue ensures precision, thoughtfulness, and the use of high-quality materials to bring your dream home to life.

Contact Big Blue today to learn more about building your next home in Eastern Washington or Northern Idaho, and embark on this exciting journey with confidence.