What Are the Pros and Cons of Building a Barndominium?
Ah, the barndominium—I've been hearing so much about these things lately. They seem like the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern living, but are they really all they’re cracked up to be? Let me share some of the pros and cons I’ve gathered from both personal research and some folks I know who’ve jumped on the barndo train.
The Pros of Building a Barndominium
First off, let’s talk about the good stuff, because there’s a lot to love. If you’re someone who enjoys wide-open spaces, or maybe you just like the idea of living in a barn-style structure, a barndominium could be exactly what you need.
Cost-Effective
One of the biggest draws for most people considering a barndo is the cost. I’ve seen people save anywhere from 10% to 40% compared to building a traditional home, depending on where they’re located and how much of the labor they can handle themselves. Steel is a huge factor in keeping things affordable. While the price of lumber is bouncing all over the place these days, steel tends to be more stable, especially in larger quantities. I’ve heard that some folks can even put up the frame themselves (with a little help, of course). So, if you’re handy or can bring in some good workers, it’s a nice way to stretch that budget.
Customization
Let’s be honest, barndominiums are a blank canvas. The interior layout is all up to you. You can have massive, open-concept spaces, soaring ceilings, or cozy corners for a home office. The versatility is something that’s really stood out to me when I’ve toured these homes. Whether you want to design a huge kitchen with an island big enough to feed the neighborhood or create an open living room with room for a pool table, you’re not bound by the typical constraints of a traditional house.
Energy Efficiency
I’m big on energy efficiency. I think everyone should be—especially when it helps lower utility bills! Barndominiums are typically easier to insulate than older, traditional homes because the metal structure keeps the temperature more stable. Many barndo owners I know have said they use less heating and cooling. Plus, if you're into renewable energy (like solar panels), the high rooflines on barndos are perfect for it. You can generate a lot of power without taking up your entire yard.
The Cons of Building a Barndominium
Of course, nothing is perfect, and barndominiums come with their own set of challenges. Before diving in, you’ve gotta consider some of the potential downsides.
Zoning and Permitting Issues
This is where things get tricky. A barndominium may not always be allowed in certain areas. Some local governments have strict zoning laws that make it difficult to get approval for anything that doesn’t look like a traditional home. I’ve known a few folks who had to jump through hoops and file a ton of paperwork just to get the green light. If you're thinking about building one, definitely check with your local building codes and zoning laws beforehand—trust me, you don't want to hit that wall after you've already started.
Financing Complications
Now, this one is a biggie. If you’re planning on getting a loan for your barndo, you might run into some issues. Lenders often don’t know how to assess the value of a barndominium, so they might not be as willing to give you a mortgage—or the terms might not be as good as with a traditional home. A lot of barndominium owners I’ve spoken to had to go with a construction loan and then refinance once the project was finished. It's just something to keep in mind.
Long-Term Value
When it comes to resale value, I think the jury’s still out. Right now, barndominiums are still a relatively niche market. That means if you build one in an area where people aren’t familiar with them, you might struggle to find buyers down the line. Or, you might find yourself having to sell for a lower price than you'd like. I’ve seen some buyers shy away from barndos just because they don’t want something that feels too “different.” In the right market, though, barndos can definitely hold their value or even appreciate, but it’s all about location.
Final Thoughts
Building a barndominium sounds great on paper, but it’s not for everyone. For some, the idea of a custom, cost-effective, and energy-efficient home makes all the sense in the world. But if you're dealing with strict zoning laws, financing headaches, or doubts about long-term value, it might be more trouble than it's worth. My advice? Do your homework—talk to folks who’ve built them, check the regulations in your area, and weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you love the idea of a barndo and everything checks out, you could be looking at a unique, personalized dream home. If not, you might want to explore other options.
