Building a House on a Budget

In these harsh economic times, people are looking for ways to cut building costs. Here are seven easy tips for building a house without spending a fortune.

Tips for building a house on a budget

1. Find economical plots

The cheapest plots are not always economical. Your costs may escalate if your contractor has to excavate, clear away bushes or provide extended drainage.

Be sure to factor in the cost of fixing public services. If possible, go for lots in areas that have access to electricity, gas and water.

2. Choose simple floor plans

Complex shapes are difficult and expensive to construct. To cut costs, choose simple – rectangular or square – floor plans.

You should also avoid complicated roof-lines.

RELATED: 10 Things to Consider in a House Plan

3. Build small

A large house can seem a bargain when you compare costs per square foot. But if you look at the bottom line a small house is more affordable to build and more economical to maintain.

4. Build tall

Of all the tips for building a house on a budget, building tall is the most misunderstood guidelines. However, it is so easy when you grasp the concept.

Instead of building a single storey house that spans across the plot, consider building a two or three storey house. The taller house will have the same amount of living space, but the foundation and roof will be smaller.

Plumbing and ventilation are also cheaper in multi-storey homes.

5. Reconsider the cabinets

Although solid wood cabinets are high-class, there are cheaper ways to give kitchens, bathrooms and home offices an elegant look.

Open shelving or stainless-steel cabinets with frosted glass doors can be less expensive alternatives to wood cabinets.

6. Use recycled materials

Recycled materials are eco-friendly and can help cut construction costs. Consider products such as sawdust, bamboo, cement composites and recycled steel.

It is advisable to shop for products in stores that sell second hand materials.

7. Postpone frills but invest in quality

While building on a budget, you may opt for less expensive doorknobs, faucets and light fixtures. These items can be easily changed, and you can always upgrade later on when your economy improves.

However, you should never scrimp when it comes to features that cannot be easily changed. Spend your money on long lasting building materials.

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