Custom House Plans vs. Stock House Plans: Which is More Cost-Effective?
By Abu Rizal at: October 31, 2019
Custom house plans cost can vary widely based on a variety of factors, from the size of your home to the complexity of your design.
It is commonly assumed that having a custom-designed house plan would come at a steep cost. However, the reality is that you can obtain house plans tailored to your specific lifestyle at a fairly reasonable and justifiable price.
Indeed, there are design firms that offer custom house plans starting at around $10,000 to $15,000 or more,
and they may also charge additional fees for managing the construction process as a liaison between you and the builder.
This can include providing assistance with decisions regarding paint colors, trim styles, flooring options, and brand choices.
However, given their high fees, this is not the most common option for most people.
In fact, many custom home builders already include the services of an interior designer as part of their contract,
which can help with these types of decisions. This means that paying for the same services twice may not be necessary.
There are people who may try to save money by purchasing stock house plans online.
However, what many people do not realize is that most of these stock house plan websites are American or from other non-Ontario provinces.
In Ontario, building permits cannot be obtained unless the house plans are approved by an Ontario BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) certified designer.
Purchasing stock house plans will require the client to have their plans certified by an Ontario-approved designer.
Moreover, most stock house plans cannot be easily customized without incurring additional costs for each change.
Additionally, many of these stock house plans may lack crucial information and design considerations that are specific to Ontario's Building Code.
Exactly, Ontario's Building Code has specific requirements for snow load considerations
on roofs, basement design, insulation R-values, and overall structure adequacy.
Most stock house plans may not meet these requirements, leading to potential issues and additional costs during the construction process.
Furthermore, some stock plans may have basement designs that are not suitable for future use, with steel posts obstructing the space.
In addition, many of these stock house plan websites do not offer customer support to help deal with building officials,
which can create further complications during the construction process.
Overall, purchasing stock house plans may seem like a cost-effective solution, but it can lead to various issues and expenses in the long run.
Indeed, while purchasing stock house plans may appear to be a cost-effective solution upfront,
it can end up being more expensive in the long run due to the need for Ontario certification
and the revisions required to meet Ontario's Building Code requirements.
These additional costs can quickly add up, potentially exceeding the cost of having a set of house plans
custom designed by an Ontario licensed designer specifically for your needs.
In the end, investing in custom house plans that meet Ontario's Building Code requirements can save you time,
money, and headaches during the construction process, while also ensuring that your home is built to your specifications and needs.
In this article, we’ll explore the key factors that can impact the cost of your custom house plans.
Size and Complexity of Your Home Design
The size and complexity of your home design will have a significant impact on the cost of your custom house plans.Larger homes and more complex designs with unique features such as curved walls, multiple levels,
or intricate roof lines will require more time and resources to design and will typically come with a higher price tag.
Number of Rooms and Bathrooms
The number of rooms and bathrooms in your custom home will also impact the cost of your house plans.More rooms and bathrooms will require more square footage and more detailed planning, which will increase the overall cost of your project.
Site Preparation and Location
The cost of your custom house plans will also be impacted by the location and site preparation required for your home.If your lot is steeply sloped or requires extensive excavation, your plans may need to include additional structural considerations, which can add to the cost.
Materials and Finishes
The materials and finishes you choose for your custom home will also have an impact on the cost of your house plans.High-end materials such as hardwood flooring or granite countertops will be more expensive than basic materials like laminate or vinyl.
Architectural Style and Details
The architectural style and details you choose for your custom home will also impact the cost of your house plans.Ornate details such as columns, arches, or decorative moldings will require more time and attention to detail during the design process, which can increase the cost.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
If you’re interested in incorporating energy-efficient or sustainable features into your custom home,your house plans will likely come with a higher price tag. Features such as solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems,
or green building materials may cost more upfront, but can ultimately save you money on energy costs in the long run.
Professional Fees and Services
Finally, it’s important to factor in the cost of professional fees and services when planning your custom house plans.This may include fees for architects, engineers, or other professionals involved in the design and construction process,
as well as the cost of permits and inspections required by your local government.
In conclusion, there are many factors that can impact the cost of your custom house plans,
from the size and complexity of your design to the materials and finishes you choose.
By carefully considering these factors and working with experienced professionals,
you can create a beautiful and functional custom home that meets your needs and fits your budget.
