One thing that most outbuildings (although not all) have in common that makes them simpler and less expensive to build than a home, is that most of them do not have foundations. The types of outbuildings that do have foundations, tend to have only a simple cement slab foundation, rather than the type that sits below ground level. For this reason, outbuildings can be constructed more inexpensively and faster than an addition to your home or a new building with an excavated foundation.
Outbuilding Cost Guides
Outbuildings refer to any building that is free standing and not attached to your main home. This could include a greenhouse, pool house, shed, gazebo, or barn. Building a workshop or shed costs about $3,000. Greenhouses can cost as much as $17,900. Check out the Cost Guides below for these and more detailed outbuilding project prices.
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Clear Land or Prepare a Construction Site
National Average $2,796 Typical Range $1,244 - $4,367 Low End - High End $400 - $9,800 -
Build a Barn, Shed or Playhouse
National Average $3,040 Typical Range $1,666 - $4,624 Low End - High End $450 - $7,000 -
Repair a Shed, Barn, or Playhouse
National Average $901 Typical Range $447 - $1,355 Low End - High End $172 - $2,800
Select your Outbuilding project
Clear Land or Prepare a Construction Site
(652 projects)
$2,796
Average National Cost
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Create a Custom Metal Structure or Object
(165 projects)
$1,845
Average National Cost
View Costs in Your Area
A good assumption to follow is that the more your outbuilding resembles the level of finishing required in your home, the more expensive it will be. If your ultimate desire is to have a completely finished pool house or guesthouse this may be similar to costs of building another home. As daunting as that may feel, it is also good to keep in mind that additional buildings on your property can greatly increase your home's value. And the more your second building resembles a home, the greater possibility hat it could be considered as a potential rental income generator.
Pre-fabricated Structures
The complexity of the building will also play a role in how expensive it will be. A simple rectangular structure is not only easier to build but often, when it comes to sheds, playhouses and storage units, they don't even have to be constructed at all, but can be purchased as pre-fabricated units that just require installation.A good rule of thumb when it comes to price is that the more customization you want, the more expensive it will be. A pre-fabricated building kit can vary in price based on size, complexity, quality of materials used and brand name. With a small amount of online research you can discover the best brands and styles of pre-fabricated building kits.
Building Permits
Building a second structure onto your existing property will most certainly require building permits. Speak with your contractor about obtaining the correct permits as every city has specific rules about building on your existing property, and proximity from your current home or the surrounding streets.In addition, if you live in a community with a Homeowners Association, you will most likely need to get permission to build anything in addition to any city permits needed.