What Every Home Buyer Should Know About Cost per Square Foot

How much does it cost to build a house? This is often the first question buyers ask before setting out to build a home. There is a common misconception that asking home builders what the “cost per square foot” is will deliver the answer. But the cost to build a house in Michigan isn’t a one-size-fits-all equation that all builders use. 

At Eastbrook Homes, we understand that whether this is your first home or third, it’s important to know what you’re getting into before jumping into such a big investment. In this blog, we explain why home builders don’t just use cost per sq foot to build a house, and what questions you should ask them instead.  

Avoid Asking About Cost per Square Foot

Cost per square foot is kind of a starting point – it’ll give you a rough idea of the cost for the base model of a home, if homes were cars. This information doesn’t tell the whole story, which can lead to confusion, unrealistic expectations or home builders trying to fit your dreams into a too-small budget (cue frustration on both sides). Let’s break this down:

• Cost Per Square Foot is Not Universal: There is no agreed-upon way to calculate cost per square foot. While some home builders may include unfinished basements, patios, and garages, others may not. This makes it difficult to compare quotes accurately, as they often don’t reflect true apples-to-apples comparisons.

• Unrealistic Expectations: Using cost per sq foot to build a house provides a generic estimate, leading you to believe that everything you’re picturing is included when in fact it may not be. Factors such as the number of rooms, site costs, and upgraded finishes can all impact that starting number significantly. 

• Frustrating Conversations: Giving a low base number initially can result in builders feeling stuck during the building process. They may avoid critical conversations or options because they don’t fit into that original number, leaving both the home buyer and the home builder frustrated. It’s a miscommunication that doesn’t need to happen. 

Pro tip: Visit Eastbrook University online for expert guidance. You’ll find helpful videos, articles, and resources designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to navigate the home buying process with confidence.

Ask These Questions Instead

To get a more accurate answer to the question, “How much does it cost to build a house,” you need to nail down your vision first. The more information you can provide about what you need in your home, the closer a home builder can get to a true estimate. You don’t need an architect to draft blueprints or anything like that – just ask yourself a few questions. Here’s a checklist to get you started:

• How many bedrooms?
• How many bathrooms?
• Do you need a flex room?
• How many garage stalls?
• Single story or two story?
• Target square footage?
• What does the outdoor living space look like?
• What architectural style do you prefer? 
• What does the property site look like?
  • Waterfront, or tree-lined? What city do you want to live in?
• Do you want upgraded home finishes?
• Are there any other features or upgrades you want? Think built-in bookcases, crown molding, finished basement, or sunroom?

Pro Tip: Our Interactive Home Building Guide is designed to help you identify what you need in a home by asking questions like those listed above. Discover your new home goals with this helpful guide.

Having a clear picture of your dream home will ensure you get more accurate estimates for the cost to build a house in Michigan. Not quite sure what you’re looking for yet? Touring model homes or browsing different styles online is a great place to start. At Eastbrook, our easy-to-use home plan search feature makes it simple to explore floor plans, filter by features, and find a design that fits your lifestyle.

Your Dream Home Is Waiting

Thinking beyond cost per sq foot to build a house is the first step in your home-building journey. It’s crucial that you and your home builder are on the same page when it comes to your budget, and your dreams. Be transparent, and ask plenty of questions to spark important conversations. The right home builder will offer strategic solutions to help you bring your vision to life, with your budget in mind. 

Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the home-building experience and gathering estimates or you’re ready to dive in, Eastbrook Homes is here to help. With dozens of home plans and hundreds of customization options, every Eastbrook home is thoughtfully designed to fit your lifestyle. Our team of experts will guide you through each step – from selecting your ideal location to finalizing the design and finishing touches. We make the process exciting and stress-free, without the premium price tag of a fully custom build. Plus, you’re always backed by our Eastbrook Guarantee. With over 50 years of experience building homes across West Michigan, we’d love to help you take the next step. Connect with us today to get started!