We are developing a rough budget for our new log home. If we purchase the log package for $250,000 and that includes the log walls, stairs, roof structure, and the labor to erect it on site. What is the approximate cost to finish the home? We would recommend having a budget allowance of $950k and that would cover a medium level of finish throughout the home. This is based on an average of $300 per square foot on a 4000 SF home and in this case minus the log package.
What would be a rough cost per square foot for home construction? We typically tell clients $250-$400 per square foot for a rough budget when they consider building in areas like Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Big Sky, Montana. A per square foot number is dependent on a number factors and one of them is a clients desired level of finish. The level of finish refers to the material choices found throughout the home(i.e. floors, countertops, trim, plumbing and electrical fixtures, exterior veneers and sidings.) The complexity of a homes design and structure as well as the specified Mechanical Electrical and Plumbing Systems (MEP) play important roles in defining a rough cost per square foot budget.
If Brand X does not supply the log shell, can your company obtain the log package and build the shell? Yes. With a set of plans or ideally structurally stamped shop drawings we could accurately bid the log package out, and we always suggest bidding out work to a minimum of three qualified sub contractors in addition to our in-house crews. This process works well in these economic times and provides you the best value for each scope of work.
How is the cost for the project set? We will develop a cost estimate based on the construction documents. There are the questions of interior finishes, heating and cooling system spec.’s, window style, and all the additional material selections that we need to be understood for to us to develop a price or allowance. Once we have determined all the essential elements we like to negotiate a budget, tailored to your design intent.
Fixed project price? Time and materials? Typically we use a contract with a Guaranteed Maximum Price, however we are open to the discussion. We use AIA contracts that can be tailored to the clients desires and situation.
How do you track costs? We use the industry norm Construction Standard (CSI) codes and divisions. We break the project down by division, and track costs, established budgets, and bill on a monthly basis.
What progress reports do you provide? Each month your bill comes with a continuation sheet broken down by cost code and division. We have many methods to track a project and provide updates tailored our clients’ needs and expressed levels of detail and involvement.
What items increase the cost of the project? Usually it is changes to the scope of work during the project or the material specifications or client selections. We can provide a value engineering analysis of your project that can create a baseline budget and then develop cost options for the client to consider.
Check back in to read Part 2 of our Q & A with our Potential Custom Log Home Client
