Imagine building your dream home in the picturesque landscape of Idaho. Now imagine that home is a barndominium, a unique blend of barn and condominium. That’s right, you’re one step closer to owning a custom-built barndominium, designed to match your lifestyle and fit your budget.
Idaho is seeing a surge in interest for these innovative homes. They’re not only more efficient to build than traditional houses, but they also offer a simpler and quicker construction process. This means you can move into your dream home faster, with fewer complications.
So, whether you’re a prospective homeowner or a builder, Idaho’s thriving barndominium scene is worth exploring. With expert builders at your disposal, your journey towards owning a barndominium in Idaho is set to be a smooth sail.
What Is a Barndominium?
The term comes from fusing two words – barn and condominium. But, it’s not just about combining phrases, it sets a whole new standard in homebuilding. It embodies a growing trend of building efficiencies and aesthetics into a harmonious blend of living space and utility.
Imagine this – you’re embarking on the journey to meet your dream for a unique and efficient home. Barndominiums, increasingly gaining traction in Idaho, are not your typical traditional houses. They’re unique and they’re efficiently built custom homes tailored to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Ever wanted open-concept living? Barndominiums can provide it. And what’s more, potential homes can have large porch areas and several customizable options. Can you imagine a hot, summer day lounging on your porch overlooking the breathtaking landscape of Idaho. It’s bliss.
If you’re curious about the building process, know that it is less cumbersome and more time-efficient. If you’re thinking of giving the classic home building process a miss, well, here’s your match. With the widespread network of builders and comprehensive build supports available, building a barndominium is faster and easier.
There’s more good news. If saving cost is top on your list, you’re in luck. Barndominium kits are an option. For those who don’t know, these kits come completely prefabricated – everything you need, already measured and ready to be built. Can it get any easier?
If you’re toying with the idea of owning a barndominium in Idaho, rest assured that you’re on the right path. From concept to execution, the process is streamlined and efficient making the journey smoother. How about you take one more step closer today.
Can You Build a Barndominium In Idaho?
Yes, you can definitely build a barndominium in Idaho. But, as you are chasing the dream of owning a unique home, factors such as land acquisition and zoning must be closely considered.
In building your dream barndominium, the first essential component is securing the right piece of land. Sure enough, you want a plot that meets your specific needs, be it a panoramic view of the sunset or a serene space away from the city buzz.
Here are some key points to consider with the land selection:
- It should be zoned for housing.
- Access to utilities and emergency services is crucial.
- It should suit the size of your planned barndominium.
Once your land fits these points, you’re one step closer to building your dream barndominium.
What is the Average Cost of Building a Barndominium in Idaho?
The average cost of building a barndominium in Idaho is around $200 per square foot. Yet, as with all building projects, several factors, such as location, size, materials used, and labor costs, can affect the final price tag.
The cost to build a traditional home in Idaho can be as high as $240 per square foot – and keep in mind, this estimate excludes land costs and non-livable spaces like garages and attics. To make matters more complicated, you’ll have to account for the finishing work like installing electrics, heating, plumbing – things that make your home, well, livable.
On average, opting for a barndominium construction isn’t just unique; it’s also cost-effective, shaving a neat 34% off your total construction cost.
Barndominiums can offer a wide price range – depending on your customization and preferences, you can expect to spend anywhere between $110 to $200 per square foot. In the long run, this leaves you with a larger room in your wallet, ample enough to accommodate furnishings, interior decor, and other bells and whistles to make your barndominium as homely as possible.
Benefits of Choosing a Barndominium
Making the choice to build a barndominium in Idaho rather than a traditional home can have several key advantages. Let’s dive into the biggest benefits to opting for this type of construction: affordability and customization options.
Affordability
In Idaho, constructing a traditional home will commonly cost you around $240 per square foot. A barndominium rings in at approximately $200 per square foot. This isn’t just a final number; you have flexibility in pricing too, ranging from $110 – $200 per square foot. This variation depends primarily on the materials you decide to use and can lead to potential savings of up to 34% on total construction expenses!
Customization Options
The amount of personalization you can apply to your barndominium is limitless. Be it the size of the property, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, or any specific design element, you have the freedom to determine these factors based on preference and budget.
This freedom extends to include even the type of barndominium – metal or wood. Both offer pros and cons. For instance, while a metal barndominium might be more budget-friendly, a wooden one could offer a traditional aesthetic you desire.
Barndominium kits also give you an added advantage. They’re essentially predesigned layouts and floor plans ready at your fingertips, you just have to build it. Moreover, if you’re someone who prefers to have the prospects of standing structures served to them on a platter, there are plenty of building companies offering various customization options from residential trim to roofing options and insulation.
To sum it all up, opting for a barndominium can give you the best value for your money. You can build a personalized, sustainable, and comparatively cheaper home.
Things to Consider Before Building a Barndominium in Idaho
In your pursuit to create your dream home through a barndominium in Idaho, there are key considerations and challenges to overcome. From understanding local zoning regulations to dealing with environmental factors, you’ll need to be well-informed and prepared.
Local Zoning Regulations
Planning a barndominium build in Idaho necessitates familiarizing yourself with local zoning regulations and laws applicable to construction. It’s important to verify that the land you’ve chosen is zoned for housing and accessible to utilities and emergency services. Deed restrictions may apply to your selected location, so it’s crucial your property complies.
Building permits play a crucial role too. They ensure compliance with Idaho’s local construction laws, safety standards, and inspection requirements. Failure to secure the required permits may lead to severe penalties or even a halt in construction.
Working with experienced professionals, like architects, engineers and contractors, can make the process less daunting. Their expertise will help you navigate local building codes and ensure you get all the necessary permits.
Weather Considerations
Idaho’s climate also calls for your attention. Barndominiums, with their original metal structures, present an excellent choice for tackling potential weather challenges. Steel, known for its resilience, is resistant to natural disasters like earthquakes and flooding, something particularly noteworthy for a state like Idaho.
A barndominium built with steel has a greater structural integrity and presents less risk of warping, shrinkage, or expansion due to changes in moisture levels. Furthermore, a steel frame is resistant to termite infestations, a potential headache especially in rural areas.
Choice of building materials should also factor in the environmental impact. Choosing steel, for instance, is an eco-friendly option due to its durability, resilience, and recyclability.
Design Ideas for Barndominiums in Idaho
Barndominiums offer a blend of affordability, versatility, and customization that makes them a popular housing option in Idaho. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat or a full-time home, these structures can be tailored to fit your vision. The key is in finding the right blend of style and function. Two notable trends shaping Idaho’s barndominium landscape are the Modern Rustic design and the incorporation of Sustainable Features.
Modern Rustic Style
Idaho barndominium builders have noticed a trend towards a Modern Rustic Style that combines the simplicity and warmth of rustic design with the sleek, clean lines of modern architecture. This style choice gives homeowners a unique opportunity to create an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and cutting-edge.
Incorporating elements like exposed wood beam ceilings, fieldstone fireplaces, and wood-plank flooring with neutral color palettes, stainless steel appliances and minimalist decor achieves a balance that feels both contemporary and timeless. Using metal as the exterior option such as painted metal, adds to the modern while the option of board and batten cedar accentuates the rustic touch. Remember, the materials you choose for your interior and exterior will greatly influence the feel of your barndominium, so consider your options carefully.
Sustainable Features
As homeowners become more eco-conscious, Sustainable Features are growing in popularity. All Countrywide Barndominiums in Idaho come standard with spray foam insulation, offering unmatched energy efficiency. This insulation helps homes resist extreme seasonal temperatures without high electricity bills, making your barndominium environment-friendly.
In addition, barndominium builders are incorporating energy-efficient windows, advanced heating and cooling systems into their designs. These sustainable features not only reduce utility costs but also contribute significantly to environmental conservation. If becoming more eco-conscious is on your agenda, these elements will be significant additions to your barndominium design.
Designing your Idaho barndominium is an opportunity to personalize your space while keeping functionality top of mind. Whether you lean towards a modern rustic design or a more eco-friendly approach, you’ll create a unique, adaptable, and resilient structure that meets your needs now and well into the future. With carefully selected elements and a solid construction plan, you can bring your ideal Idaho barndominium to life.
Top Five Barndominium Builders in Idaho
Stepping into the world of barndominiums, you quickly realize that having an expert on your side can make all the difference. Here’s an insider look at Idaho’s top barndominium builders who have proven expertise in catering to a multitude of needs and styles.
Steel Structures of America
Steel Structures of America specializes in creating versatile steel buildings ranging from garages and barns to custom barndominiums. With their decades of experience, they’ve established a prominent presence in Idaho, delivering design value based on client needs.
Address: 3635 E. Covington Ave. Post Falls, ID 83854
Phone: (800) 833-9997
Superior Pole Buildings
Superior Pole Buildings, based in Coeur d’Alene, offers barndominium options that extend to airplane hangars and RV storage buildings. Known for their unwavering commitment to excellence, this builder presents an array of barndominium opportunities for varied requirements. They specialize in building barndominium shells. Barndominium shells are a popular option for those who are looking for a combination of durability and affordability. These shells are essentially metal buildings that are designed to be converted into residential spaces, as well as serve as a multi-functional area for gatherings, storage, and even a workspace. They are favored by many because of the ease and speed of construction, as well as the flexibility that they offer in terms of customization.
Address: Coeur D Alene, ID 83814
Phone: (888) 533-6080
JE Building Contractors
JE Building Contractors hold a reputation for constructing robust and aesthetically pleasing barndominiums. At JE Building Contractors, they understand the unique challenges that come with building in a mountain environment. Their team has the experience and expertise to design and construct homes that can handle the heavy snowfalls that are common in Idaho.
Address: 226 Main St, Donnelly, ID 83615
Phone: (208) 870-2398
BCG Idaho
BCG Idaho is synonymous with quality construction and innovative designs in the Idaho barndominium industry. They’ve set standards in terms of creating functionally aesthetic, environment-friendly barndominiums, and continue to delight their clientele with superior builds. They are one of the few full service construction companies in Idaho. They’ll not only handle your build but also any excavating, foundation, demo and even hauling away all the leftover building materials for you.
Address: 3463 SW 2nd Ave, New Plymouth, ID 83655
Phone: (208) 409-7356
Backforty Builders
Backforty Builders is the go-to builder for those seeking comprehensive services, right from groundwork to the final design finishes. Specializing in barns and barndominiums, they are celebrated for their client-focused approach and fine craftsmanship.
Address: 239 Martin Ln, Florence, MT 59833
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Barndo Builder
While narrowing down your builder choices, consider the following:
- Experience – An experienced local builder like Steel Structures of America will understand Idaho’s unique geographic and weather conditions, having important construction details at their fingertips.
- Cost and Value – A typical Idaho barndominium costs around $200 per square foot. You should speak with multiple builders as you’ll likely get a different price from each.
- Client Support – Prioritize builders who value open communication and provide timely updates, making your building process stress-free.
And just like that, you’re all set to embark on your own Idaho barndominium journey with these top builders. Dive deeper into the builder’s past projects, reviews and services to make an informed choice.
Barndominium Financing in Idaho
It’s important to recognize that financing is as crucial as the design and construction process. Building such a unique dwelling demands a comprehensive understanding of the local financial landscape, specifically regarding Idaho’s relevant entities. Assisting you on this exciting journey, Idaho AgCredit and Ireland Bank are two prominent financial institutions that stand tall with their decades of unflinching dedication and commitment to Idaho’s residents.
Idaho AgCredit
With roots dating back to 1934, Idaho AgCredit has earned a solid reputation for nurturing Idaho residents’ dreams. Whether it’s financing for land, livestock, equipment, operating lines of credit, or in our case, barndominiums, Idaho AgCredit exhibits an unwavering commitment to your success.
Their proficiency stems from an extensive history in operational practices and the nuanced requirements inherent to extensive, complex projects. As a result, they possess a firm grasp of the build process integral to manifesting your barndominium vision.
Choosing Idaho AgCredit for your project’s financial backing isn’t merely a matter of securing funds, but rather an opportunity to work alongside an institution that understands your specific needs and is dedicated to the success of your endeavor.
Ireland Bank
If gaining financial support from an entity that’s an intrinsic part of the Idaho community resonates with you, then Ireland Bank should top your list. As one of the oldest banks in Idaho, Ireland Bank intuitively comprehends the unique demands and aspirations of the locals.
Their deep roots in the area provide them with insights into the ins and outs of building a barndominium in Idaho. Their community-focused approach and comprehensive understanding can prove invaluable for navigating through the process smoothly and efficiently.
With a team empathetic to the specificities of constructing a barndominium in Idaho, Ireland Bank delivers a truly local and personalized banking experience, ticketing all the boxes for a supportive, understanding, and cooperative financial companion on your barndominium journey.
Securing financial support for your barndominium project in a place like Idaho is less complicated and much more assured with Idaho AgCredit and Ireland Bank by your side. With their deep knowledge of the local landscape, coupled with their dedicated involvement, you’re well-equipped to bring your unique barndominium vision to life!
Finding Barndominium Insurance in Idaho
Securing insurance for your barndominium might seem a challenge, given the nature of these unique homes. Don’t panic, it’s a process that’s navigated easily with the correct knowledge and patience.
As a rule of thumb, you can obtain insurance for your barndominium in common places where you’d seek traditional homeowners insurance. Yet, you might find some insurers aren’t familiar with the unique aspects and values of a barndominium. That’s where detailed records of your barndominium’s construction and costs come in handy.
Use Detailed Records
Keeping meticulous logs of expenditures and the progression of your barndominium’s construction can aid your insurer in understanding your home’s unique features and true value. It’ll streamline the insurance process, ensuring that your barndominium gets a policy that’s as unique as it is.
Find an Insurance Agent
Working with an experienced insurance agent can make a huge difference. They’ll assist you in navigating the intricacies of insuring your Idaho barndominium, securing a suitable policy that has your unique needs covered.
Barndominium Floor Plans in Idaho
Curiosity and excitement around barndominiums are quickly growing in the States, and why not? These rustic, open-concept structures, which originated in Texas, offer a unique blend of home, barn, and shop in one. More noteworthy, however, is the customization possibilities these amazing structures present. Yes, with barndominiums the possibilities are nearly endless.
Their customizable floor plans have contributed massively to the fervor. You might be considering two master suites or a minimalist three-bedroom design. Perhaps you’re fond of compact dwellings or keen on a grand five-bedroom layout. Maybe adding a garage to your floor plan to house your ride or use as additional workspace appeals to you. There’s an extensive variety of barndominium floor plans out there sure to cater to any lifestyle and preference.
As it’s often said, building a property is akin to crafting a piece of art. And it’s even more so with barndominiums thanks to the vast design-without-limits ideology that has formed around them. So why not jump into the design pool and draft the floor plan for your personal masterpiece?
Consider the following while selecting your plan:
- Number of rooms: Quite frankly, the number of rooms you want is pivotal for planning. Do you desire a simple one-bedroom or a more lavish five-bedroom dwelling?
- Space distribution: How you distribute space for different functions significantly impacts the functionality and aesthetic of your living space. Thoughtfully portion out room for living, storage, work, and other activities.
- Special requirements: You might have special needs, such as a workshop, office space, or horse barn. Factor these in your floor plan for a 100% customized barndominium.
Remember as well that while vaulted ceilings, tongue and groove walls, and custom beams are common in barndominium builds, it’s all up to you.
- Two Master Suites: Ideal for families needing two large suites with private bathrooms.
- Three Bedrooms: An affordable option for small families.
- Small barndominiums: A fantastic option for the minimalists.
- Five Bedroom Layout: Perfect for large families or hosts who love to invite guests.
- Floor Plans with Garage: A go-to for car enthusiasts or folks needing expansive workspace