The Hidden Costs of Building a House from Scratch

by Magical Penny on May 6, 2023

stamp duty change 2016Building your dream home from scratch is an exciting adventure. With each step, you’re bringing your vision to life, choosing every feature and detail. But as you’re laying the groundwork for your perfect abode, it’s easy to overlook the sneaky expenses that can catch you off guard. These hidden costs can quickly add up, throwing a wrench in your carefully planned budget and timeline. To ensure you’re well-equipped for your journey, explore these less talked-about expenses of building a house. 

Piling & Foundation

Piling and foundation works are the first and arguably most essential steps in constructing a house. It requires expertise, special tools and materials that can drive up costs significantly, especially if you do not want your house to fall apart as soon as it is completed.

Depending on the terrain of your plot of land, you may have to invest in Piling & Foundation Contractors. This can add a few pounds to your bill, so make sure you factor in this expense when budgeting for your home build.

A Septic System

Septic systems are essential for households that don’t get their water from a public system. So if you are one of those people who get all their water from a well or any other private source, you’ll need to install a septic system. The costs of septic systems vary, depending on the size and type you opt for.

A popular septic system is the chamber system. They are simpler than other types and have a lower installation cost. However, the maintenance costs can add up over time. Make sure to factor these in when budgeting for your home build.

Landscaping

You may have already calculated your landscaping expenses when you initially purchased the land for your home. However, if you are building on a plot of land that is already developed, some unforeseen costs might come up during the build process. 

For instance, if you’re using heavy machinery to dig or move earth around on the site, it can damage existing plants or grass, adding additional costs for landscaping work. Alternatively, if you end up needing to move more earth around than initially planned, it can also cause a rise in costs.

A Removal Company

Building a home from scratch leaves a lot of debris in its wake. Therefore, you’ll need to hire a removal company to get rid of all the rubble and waste material left over from construction. If your land is outside city limits, you may also need to pay an extra fee for the permit required by certain local authorities.

The amount charged by removal companies varies according to the volume of material to be disposed of, so make sure to factor in this expense when budgeting for your home build.

Your perfect abode deserves plenty of time and dedication. As you’re crafting your dream house, make sure to remember the hidden costs that can quickly add up and throw a wrench in your carefully planned budget and timeline. With the proper financial planning, you can create an affordable home without sacrificing quality or craftsmanship.

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