patrick.net

"A great answer would give a map of the U.S. with the median cost per sq.ft. of middle class houses around 2000 sq. ft. with the map painted from green to red by the cost per sq. ft. and a legend depicting the various price ranges."

Right. So couldn't we get a pie chart showing what percentage went to materials labor, profit, or FINANCING?

Then we'd know the markup on each, and how much room could be squeezed out of buying a house.

Seems like without it, no wonder home buying apparently defies the traditional improvements of Capitalism.

And it would clearer identify who makes out on this biz.

bob2356 says

So how about some listings of houses you've built?

Not sure if that comment is even directed at me, but I’ll freely admit I’m not a builder. But I know that land (at least in my area) isn’t exactly cheap. Additionally, I have friends and relatives in building / surveying / civil engineering fields. Based on their input I have priced out what it takes to go from raw land  a fully engineered lot  a well built house. It’s an expensive endeavor. MHO is that some in these forums greatly underestimate the cost. Heck even if they are spot on – you know the old adage - you get what you pay for.

In short, about six months ago I looked into the possibility of building, but it wasn’t feasible for me – at least not right now. A 2500 ft2 colonial was going for $100/ft2. And that’s assuming I had the land to put it on.

My uncle is a builder. There’s this one development he’s working on now. Owns the land and builds to spec. He’s still doing OK, all things considered – so far as I can tell. Next time I see him, I’ll ask him how much profit he’s really seeing these days.

EastCoastBubbleBoy says

bob2356 says

So how about some listings of houses you've built?

Not sure if that comment is even directed at me,

Nope, it's for trollhunter who claims to be "making" $55 a ft. Still waiting. Don't know what the fascination is with a new house anyway.

If you are considering building, you have to investigate a modular home. We did and it was a great experience and the cost to build was lower while still getting a great house.

Definitely do your research. Spend the time to learn as much as possible before you jump in. We bought the book from here and it was a huge source of info.

http://www.modularhomesnetwork.com/

Good luck!

What about building using shipping containers or a sand bag home. Does anyone know what kind of savings for either?