🏡 How to Set Up a Budget for Your Home Build
Would you guys be interested in a full extremely detailed budget breakdown? Your budget will vary pretty greatly depending on where you are located in the country. There are things on the east coast you have to do that someone building on the west coast or Midwest will not have to do! Let me know down in the comments! One of the biggest mistakes first-time owner-builders make is jumping into construction without a clear budget. A solid budget isn’t just about tracking costs it’s your roadmap for staying on course and avoiding surprises. Here’s a simple framework you can use to set yours up: 1. Start with the Big Picture - Decide your all-in budget (what you can realistically spend). - Include land, build costs, permits, utilities, and a 10–15% contingency for surprises. 2. Break It Into Categories Organize your budget into clear buckets: - Land & Site Prep (lot, clearing, utilities, permits) - Foundation - Framing & Exterior (roof, windows, doors, siding) - Mechanical Systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) - Interior Finishes (drywall, flooring, cabinets, paint) - Final Touches (landscaping, driveway, cleanup) 3. Price Check with Reality - Get 3 bids per trade when possible. - Ask subs or suppliers for ballpark numbers before locking in. - Track costs in a simple spreadsheet or budgeting app. 4. Track & Adjust Weekly - Review expenses every week, not every month. - Compare your planned vs. actual costs. - Shift funds around if one category runs higher than expected. 5. Protect Your Contingency - Treat your contingency like insurance—don’t spend it unless absolutely necessary. 💡 Pro Tip: The more detailed your categories, the fewer “mystery expenses” will catch you off guard. 👉 What part of budgeting do you struggle with the most—getting accurate bids, staying disciplined with spending, or knowing what categories to include? Drop your thoughts below.