How much does it cost to put up a barndominium in Virginia?
It is the one of the first questions we get from homeowners looking to build.
There is no single answer to that. The final price tag is dictated by a number of things: the square footage, what you want for finishes, how much you wish to customize the home, and the state of your property.
At 757 Building Company, we take a different approach. We build custom barndominiums to suit your land and your family’s long-term objectives. Since each project is its own entity, so too is every estimate we put together.
Here are some details to consider before you get started.
Typical Barndo Costs in Virginia
Every custom home is built differently, but these numbers can serve as a practical guide for your budget.
| Home Size | Estimated Construction Cost |
|---|---|
| 1,200–1,500 sq. ft. | $325,000–$390,000 |
| 1,600–2,000 sq. ft. | $390,000–$490,000 |
| 2,000+ sq. ft. | $490,000–$700,000+ |
If you’re using **WordPress’s block editor or Elementor**, this will center the table on the page. If you’re using **Divi**, **Beaver Builder**, or another page builder, let me know and I can provide the best version for that platform.
Keep in mind that this is for the construction of the home proper. You will find separate costs for site work such as wells, septic, excavation and utility hookups, which will vary depending on the property.
The Variables in Your Investment
A few key choices will make or break your bottom line.
Size and the floor plan
Bigger homes mean more labor and materials, but the layout is just as important. If you want vaulted ceilings, a loft, an oversized garage or a workshop, there is extra structural work involved. An open floor plan is a favorite among homeowners for the space it affords, yet it often calls for engineered beams and a more involved build.
The exterior
Your choice of style has an effect on the budget as well as the look. Whether you go with metal or board-and-batten siding, add some stone accents, or opt for a steeper roof pitch and decorative timber framing, you are adding to the material and labor bill.
Inside the home
This is where you will see the most variance in the budget. From the quality of your cabinets and countertops to the flooring, tile showers and lighting, finish allowances are usually tailored to the individual during the design phase.
Don’t Overlook the Site
It is easy to concentrate on the home and forget about what it takes to prepare the ground. A flat lot with utilities in place is one thing; a sloped or wooded property is another and demands more in the way of planning.
Site development can run the gamut from tree clearing and grading to soil testing, well drilling and stormwater management. An experienced builder will have those costs identified early on to avoid any unpleasant surprises once we are on site.
The Case Against the “Kit”
You will see plenty of ads for barndominium kits that seem like a bargain compared to a custom build. In truth, the price is only for the shell. The homeowner is left to sort out the rest: the foundation, the permits, the inspections, the subcontractors for plumbing and electrical, and all the interior work.
We prefer to manage the whole process from the drawing board to the finished product. It is a smoother way to do business and ensures the home meets Virginia building codes without cutting corners.
Why They Are So Popular
There is a reason barndominiums are in vogue. They offer the best of both worlds in terms of form and function. With high ceilings, large garages for an RV or a dedicated workshop, and energy-efficient construction, they are highly practical. But because we design them to order, you are not having to adapt to a pre-conceived house. You can have the modern farmhouse aesthetic and an open concept that works for your lifestyle.
Let’s Put Together an Estimate
An online calculator is not going to give you an accurate picture of what your new home will cost. Local requirements and the specifics of your land are too important to ignore.
We like to work with our clients here in Virginia to put together a plan and a realistic budget before we break ground. If you are thinking of building, we are happy to have a conversation about your ideas and your property to see what can be done for your project.
