Basic Guidelines for Estimating Your House Construction Expenses
Embarking on a house construction journey is a complex endeavor that involves meticulous planning, intricate designing, and navigating various charges and fees. Amongst the myriad aspects, one central element reigns supreme: the cost and expenses associated with construction. Crafting a comprehensive budget is indispensable, serving as a guiding light through the myriad challenges that may arise throughout the construction phase.
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Determining the construction cost of a home is a perennial concern for prospective builders. Building a house demands meticulous attention to detail and thorough preparation. Fluctuations in land prices, material costs, and labor charges pose potential challenges for anyone embarking on a construction project. Adhering to comprehensive guidelines and diligent management are imperative to ensure the project progresses smoothly according to plan.
The plot layout, designed in collaboration with the owner, facilitates efficient construction of buildings or complexes. Architects meticulously craft the layout to align with the owner's vision and practical needs, providing a blueprint for the construction team to follow closely. This detailed plan ensures smooth execution and adherence to the intended design.
Architects or plot designers typically charge a fee for creating a design tailored to your plot, which can vary based on the plot's location and specific requirements.
Before commencing construction on your property, securing governmental approval is crucial. If your construction site encroaches upon public utilities such as pillars, roads, or electricity poles, obtaining the necessary permits from the government is imperative. Failure to obtain these permissions may result in substantial fines levied against you.
For example, in developed cities, adherence to building height regulations and parking requirements is essential. Constructing a 2-3 floor house necessitates the provision of parking space beneath the building to comply with local regulations. Failure to meet these requirements may result in fines being imposed.
Once your budget surpasses expectations, you face choices: wait for additional funds, suspend the project, or compromise on material quality. To control and rectify the budget, consider these tips:
When purchasing a plot for construction, prioritize selecting one that aligns with your future plans and fits your budget. Beware that buying a plot below road level may incur additional expenses. Always assess the plot's elevation to mitigate unforeseen costs and ensure optimal investment.
Here are some pointers to keep in mind while constructing:
- Don’t make a complex structure if you don't need one
- Have a simple floor architecture so that it will require less material and reduce the overall expenses.
- Hire a good contractor with good experience
- Manage your material properly. If you manage your construction material and its efficient cost, you can reduce extra expenditure
You can keep these things in mind while making the budget and during the process of construction. You can calculate and figure out your budget on a house construction cost calculator.
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10 tell tale signs you need to get new estimate house construction cost
Undoubtedly, the initial consideration when planning a house construction is the budget and its impact on your finances. Typically, this cost is calculated based on a per-square-foot basis, encompassing various components and procedural steps in the construction process
Utilizing a home construction cost calculator aids in estimating the expected expenses for building your new house. Working backward allows you to adjust your budget according to any unforeseen expenditures or limitations. Understanding your financial constraints enables you to design a home suitable for your budget and location. A reliable cost estimator is crucial for accurately predicting construction expenses.
When estimating construction costs, material quality is a critical factor to consider. With numerous options available for incorporation into your home, it's essential to align your preferences with your budget constraints. House construction cost calculators streamline the process of selecting materials, enabling you to make informed decisions that balance cost-effectiveness with desired quality standards.
Labor costs fluctuate based on factors like unemployment rates, seasonal variations, and demand in the building cycle. In robust economies with low unemployment, labor expenses tend to be higher due to supply and demand dynamics.
Each community establishes its fees for construction and occupancy permits. Understanding these costs, along with any legal or engineering requirements for compliance with city ordinances, is crucial if you seek a deviation from local regulations.
The floor blueprint shapes your foundation, with simpler designs being cost-effective. Self-purchased sites may have unstable soils, necessitating blasting during excavation. Choosing between drilled wells, septic systems, or public utilities affects construction costs. Considering these factors early ensures budget alignment and project feasibility.
The intricacies of your building plan influence framing costs, especially with multiple roof lines and complex spatial crossings, which increase expenses. While such features add size and visual appeal, budget constraints may necessitate allocating funds to other priorities.
Exterior finishes, including siding material and style (such as composite or wood, board, and batten), along with special design features like a cupola or front entrance porch, significantly impact construction costs. While it's intuitive to assume that larger homes cost more, the correlation between size and "price per square foot" isn't always straightforward. A smaller home with intricate details may cost more per square foot than a larger home with a simpler design.
The major systems, including heating, electrical, and plumbing, significantly contribute to the construction cost estimate. Preferences for options like geothermal or solar power will influence the cost of water filtration systems, radiant heat, and forced hot or cold air, among other considerations. While certain preferences may require higher upfront expenses, they can ultimately reduce energy costs over time.
The construction cost estimate guides decisions on furnishing your house, encompassing various components that shape its final aesthetic. Considerations such as incorporating a wine cellar for your collection or implementing art lighting to highlight unique pieces must be factored into the budgeted cost from the outset.
Price per square foot generally decreases with more stories due to the spreading out of construction costs over a larger area, impacting the total costs of systems and foundations.
Shingle roofs remain common, yet metal is increasingly favored by buyers for its snow-shedding and weather-moderating properties. The complexity of the house's shape significantly influences construction costs, with more intricate designs often resulting in higher expenses.
There are many kinds of luxury appliances that would heighten the cost of the house. These can comprise gadgets such as a convection ovens or wine refrigerators. If your budget is restricted, you should plan where you will spend the money depending on your lifestyle.
Being prepared for cost overruns is crucial, as the finished cost of the house often exceeds the initial bid price. Various inevitable situations, such as unexpected material price increases or unforeseen construction challenges, can significantly heighten the cost of constructing a new home. Being knowledgeable and proactive helps manage these situations effectively.
At times, you might be drawn to high-end flooring, ceilings, or elaborate landscaping, but indulging in these temptations can significantly inflate the cost of your new home. A skilled builder will inform you of the added expenses associated with such upgrades, allowing for an informed decision-making process once these features are calculated and planned.
Collaborating with the contractor to establish a comprehensive construction agreement is essential. Including detailed elements in the contract ensures accurate calculations and helps you stay within your budget during the construction process.
Adding 10% for unexpected costs to your house construction estimate is advisable, as unforeseen expenses may arise during the project. A competent builder can help adhere to your budget. Begin by determining an expected cost figure for your new home and then proceed with your plan, ensuring that you budget appropriately for the project.
5 common myths about the estimated house construction cost
Material cost
When we think about building a new house, one of the first things that come to mind is how much it will cost to build. We have compiled a list of common myths about the estimated house construction cost. This article will also discuss some factors that can work as a home construction cost calculator.
Sustainability has become more affordable as pollution emerges as a global concern. Construction activities and energy emissions from buildings contribute significantly to air pollution. Green buildings offer a solution by potentially reducing pollutants and mitigating environmental impact.
Green buildings offer several advantages. Firstly, they are resource-efficient, which helps conserve natural resources. Secondly, they boast lower operating expenses, as indicated by home construction cost estimates. Thirdly, they prioritize occupant comfort by providing better thermal and visual conditions, reducing reliance on artificial cooling and lighting, and thereby fostering healthier living environments. Overall, green buildings encapsulate sustainability and comfort, making them a desirable choice for modern construction projects.
Despite common misconceptions, green buildings aren't necessarily more expensive. By incorporating sustainability features during the design stage, it becomes easier to track costs effectively. It's essential to recognize that a home will be around for at least 60 years, so investing slightly more upfront can lead to long-term benefits like lower energy costs, enhanced comfort, and improved health. With green buildings, you enjoy greater comfort at a lower operational cost, with the payback period typically within a year or two.
You've summarized it well! Green buildings, despite misconceptions, need not be more expensive. Integrating sustainability features during the design phase helps manage costs effectively. Investing a bit more upfront for long-term benefits like reduced energy costs, enhanced comfort, and improved health over the home's lifespan is crucial. With green buildings, occupants enjoy superior comfort at a lower operational cost, often recouping the investment within a year or two.
Air conditioning and lighting constitute substantial expenses in business facilities. Installation of large air-conditioning units and power backup systems requires significant investment and space. However, designing the building envelope (primary structure) to reduce reliance on air conditioning and artificial lighting can lower both initial construction costs and ongoing expenditures.
A house construction cost estimator is essential for determining the expense of constructing a physical structure. Contrary to popular belief, custom homes are often perceived as more costly and time-consuming than they truly are. However, building a personalized home is feasible even with a limited budget. With proper planning and the assistance of a knowledgeable builder, it's possible to create a custom home tailored to your needs while staying within budget constraints.
Constructing a bespoke home grants complete control over materials, size, and features incorporated. A skilled custom home builder aids in selecting the optimal floor plan within budget and lifestyle parameters. Given the abundance of options, custom homes generally take longer to build; however, expedited decision-making can accelerate the process significantly.
Moreover, builders with in-house teams often exhibit superior scheduling and planning capabilities compared to those who subcontract all tasks. Factors such as materials used and the builder's waitlist can also influence the timeline for constructing a custom home. Essentially, creating a custom home entails crafting something entirely unique and unprecedented.
If you haven't secured land for your custom house yet, engage your builder in the search for a lot that meets your requirements. Involving your builder in the hunt offers numerous advantages, as they can provide insights into suitable locations and home designs that complement the lot. A professional's guidance through new estates and home selections can streamline the process of block selection and ensure that your dream home aligns perfectly with the chosen lot.
Your builder will be authorized to withdraw funds from the construction loan at different stages of the project. However, securing this type of loan for a home that doesn't yet exist may be more challenging and time-consuming, as lenders require detailed information about the project. It's advisable to consult with your builder about the various financing options available for your custom house to ensure a smooth and successful construction process.
New construction isn't necessarily more expensive or prone to hidden fees. Costs are transparent upfront when purchasing land, enabling customization within budget. With all details specified and agreed upon in the contract, unexpected charges are minimized, barring modifications post-contract signing. House construction cost estimates, often prepared with architects and engineers, ensure projects align with financial feasibility and scope criteria.
A proper house construction cost estimate keeps the builder from losing money and ensures that the consumer does not overpay.
It has been a myth that constructing a tiny, single-story home will be less expensive. Selecting the correct house for the block is crucial for cost-effective development. Whether you build a single or duplex, early site costs like earthworks, block drainage, council fees, and fiber optics remain similar. It's important to discuss unique development costs with your property group. Multi-story buildings may be cheaper per square meter due to their lower footprint, smaller roof, and fewer requirements for large weight-bearing elements. Hence, having a house construction cost estimate is always advisable.
When you build with Brick&Bolt, you get the best construction services.
Cost of building a house?
We sometimes want to know the house construction cost to compare it to the price quoted by contractors, and this is a reasonable request. Because many contractors inflate house costs to much more than they are. However, we may prevent this type of deception if we have a basic knowledge of types of construction raw materials and their costs.
Here are some tips for the same:
We can help you make an informed decision about constructing your house as we provide construction cost calculations for Bangalore and Hyderabad.
12 helpful tips for doing estimate house construction
Building a home of your own dreams where you can cherish your memories is a hope for everyone. It should not only be well designed but also comfortable. But when you start planning, it becomes very difficult for you to fulfil this criteria not because constructing a house is cheap but because you need to invest your whole income. It is also a known fact that house construction costs are very high. A dream comes true if you pair it with your actions. Given below are tips for developing your house according to the estimate:
Choosing a plot located roadside with good communication and transportation facilities is prudent, as it optimizes savings for other investments. However, inflated rates from dealers citing high demand in such areas pose a common challenge for buyers.
Confirming uninterrupted electrical and water supply for the plot you're buying is crucial as they are basic necessities. While sellers may claim these amenities are available, it's advisable to seek feedback from local residents for a clearer picture of the plot and its surroundings. In case these utilities are lacking, additional expenses will be incurred for separate connections, thereby increasing your home construction costs.
Select construction materials of superior quality while ensuring they are reasonably priced to ensure the proper construction of your house. Make a comprehensive list of materials required for the construction before commencing the project to streamline the process and minimize errands. Utilize resources available to calculate building material costs and address any inquiries to stay within your budget and achieve efficient construction management.
Materials such as doors and windows can significantly contribute to your budget due to their rising costs. To mitigate expenses, compile a list of required items and purchase them from a single vendor to potentially secure discounts. This approach not only saves valuable time spent running errands but also helps conserve funds for other aspects of your project.
Ensuring clarity in structural drawings before commencing construction is paramount. Some individuals may initially agree to the drawings, only to find dissatisfaction with the ongoing construction later, necessitating plan changes. Such revisions can significantly inflate the house construction cost estimate, especially if work has already commenced based on the initial plan. Therefore, it's crucial to meticulously plan and thoroughly review the design before initiating construction to avoid unnecessary expenses and modifications down the line.
Choose local vendors for cost-effective solutions and reduced transportation expenses. Contrary to misconceptions, they offer sturdy materials at competitive prices. Avoid larger vendors to stay within budget, as they may charge higher prices for similar items.
Labour costs constitute a significant portion of construction expenses, often dictated by market supply and demand dynamics. Calculating hourly work completion rates and estimating required labourers aid in optimizing workforce allocation for cost-effective project management. While labour wages may not be negotiable, strategic planning ensures efficient utilization of resources and minimizes unnecessary expenditures.
Machinery costs are spent on the machines used for the construction of a house. These machines are always hired on a rental basis, and their rent is quite high.
Flooring costs vary based on tile rates, making it essential to select tiles within your budget. Cement flooring offers a cost-effective and durable alternative. For those with budget constraints, minimizing wooden work is advisable to manage expenses efficiently.
The shape and size of the house significantly impact construction costs, with larger homes typically incurring higher expenses. Designing the house according to your family size without unnecessary increases in size can help reduce home construction cost estimates effectively.
Absolutely! Obtaining a permit to occupy your home is a crucial step in the construction process, ensuring that the building complies with all relevant regulations and safety standards. It's essential for the safety and legality of your new residence.
14 common misconceptions about estimated house construction
Refuting misconceptions about house construction is crucial to maintaining a thriving and evolving industry. By dispelling outdated notions, we ensure that accurate information guides the construction process, fostering innovation and progress within the industry.
Customers often assume that pricing per square foot primarily pertains to habitable square footage, with areas like garages, basements, porches, and attics deemed as not included in the equation and therefore should be effectively free of cost.
In the past, areas like garages were presumably not particularly expensive when houses were more straightforward and garages were smaller. However, nowadays, garages have grown in size and come with a variety of features, contributing to increased construction costs.
Buyers often expect to pay more for a larger bedroom but may overlook the increased costs of a larger garage. However, in most cases, both spaces share similar construction elements such as footings, walls, flooring, framework, windows, wiring, and drywall, contributing to the overall cost.
In bedrooms, interior-finish materials like carpeting, closet trim, closet doors, a bedroom door, base, and casing are commonly found. In contrast, garages typically include overhead doors, door openers, 5/8-inch Type X drywall, a fire-rated door to the house, and a side door for emergency egress.
Opting for construction materials of excellent quality at a reasonable cost ensures the proper construction of your house while maintaining affordability.
Once you've determined the construction start date, creating a list of required materials streamlines the process, helping to reduce costs and minimize errands. If you have questions about building material costs, you can calculate them here for clarity and efficiency.
For most construction loan applications, you'll need to present a project timeline and a realistic budget. Additionally, you'll be required to provide a detailed list of construction specifications, encompassing everything from floor plans and building materials to insulation and ceiling heights.
This data is frequently compiled in a "blue book" by experienced builders for home-building projects. Utilizing a builder's expertise or learning to create the document yourself can serve as an excellent starting point for your loan application.
Consider owner-builder construction financing if you're intent on building your home. While challenging to qualify for in today's housing market, it's achievable with a well-researched construction plan showcasing your skills. Allocate funds for unforeseen expenses to ensure a smooth process.
One of the key considerations for determining value for money is the investment put into the property, future costs, and its potential future value. Market trends play a crucial role in deciding the size and number of storeys. It's essential to monitor buying trends in the community and assess the local property market's potential for growth to make informed decisions about property investment.
It's advisable to purchase materials from local vendors as they often offer transportation at lower costs. Contrary to assumptions, local vendors provide sturdy materials at reduced prices. Conversely, big vendors tend to charge more, potentially exceeding your estimated budget.
When building, buying, or selling a home, people often consider the cost per square foot as a simple method of comparison. Larger house plans tend to have a lower cost per square foot, as the cost is spread out over more square footage. Adding square footage solely for living space is the most cost-effective type to build, increasing the property's market value despite raising construction costs. Opting for basic living space over more expensive square footage further improves the cost per square foot in your favor.
Granite stands out as a superior option due to its numerous advantages. It is a durable stone that resists scratches, chips, and breakage, ensuring longevity in your home for decades. With a wide range of pricing options, granite is reasonably priced, making it easy to find a stone that fits your budget. While granite is porous and requires sealing to maintain its stain-free appearance, the investment can lead to a boost in the sale price of your home.
Solid hardwood flooring, made of solid wood planks, typically requires gluing and fastening for planks 5 inches thick or more, which raises labor costs. It used to be site-finished but is now increasingly pre-finished at manufacturing plants. Engineered hardwood, comprising multiple wood layers in a single plank, features a top layer resembling solid wood veneer and offers superior dimensional stability, withstanding moisture, temperature changes, and humidity better than natural wood.
Which is a superior option?
Engineered hardwood is preferable for areas with moisture or temperature variations, like concrete or basements with wood-burning stoves, while solid hardwood may require more sub-floor preparation. Engineered hardwood's layered construction offers better dimensional stability against expansion and contraction. While solid hardwood allows for re-sanding and easier board replacement, matching the exact color and grain of engineered hardwood can be challenging, posing similar difficulties for extensive repairs due to differences in shine.
Windows play a crucial role in home design, maximizing natural light while minimizing energy costs for heating and cooling. Constructing windows, especially complex ones, can be more costly than installing solid walls, yet insulated walls enhance energy efficiency. Striking the ideal balance between natural light and energy efficiency is key, and your builder can help achieve this in your home design.
Your builder can be instrumental in selecting the ideal location for your custom house, especially if you haven't inherited or acquired the land yet. Before purchasing a lot, discuss your home preferences with your builder to save time and money. Builders are adept at noticing and evaluating land characteristics such as slope, orientation, views, tree and rock placements, and other factors influencing site viability that you may overlook. Their expertise ensures the chosen location aligns well with your custom home vision.
Constructing a floor plan repeatedly may pose challenges, but it's not impossible. Any floor plan can serve as a solid starting point when collaborating with a skilled custom home builder. During the design phase, there's flexibility to add rooms, modify kitchen and bathroom layouts, extend passageways, and personalize master suites to meet your specific needs and preferences. Working closely with your builder allows for creative adjustments and ensures the final design reflects your vision for the home.
In house construction, selecting optimal land involves analyzing easements, wells, septic systems, and topography before purchase. Your builder ensures the land is suitable for construction and aligns with your vision.
Designing a custom home involves many choices, but hiring a trusted, communicative professional builder can streamline the process and alleviate stress.
Even without prior knowledge, an experienced builder can guide you by asking pertinent questions and offering expertise throughout the process. With a clear understanding of your preferences, the design team can help narrow down options and lead you through the decision-making process.
Waterproofing your basement is a highly cost-effective investment, although its effectiveness may vary. By minimizing water leaks and preserving the foundation's integrity, waterproofing significantly improves the building's durability and overall health.
While waterproofing paints or primers may offer short-term protection, professional basement repair services provide lasting solutions that can endure for decades. Regardless of the region's rainfall levels, investing in such services helps prevent water damage and leaks from sewage and underground plumbing, ensuring long-term structural integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to fix your construction budget?
When you start making a budget before starting the construction, understand and make exceptions:
- Know the cost of construction materials, labour charge and days
- Bear in mind that a mishappening can happen
- Always set the budget higher than the actual budget
- Hire a good contractor with good experience
- Always let the people working with you know that they can’t go outside the budget without your concern under any circumstances
2. How much does one have to spend on a house construction project?
Constructing a house can be a little expensive. Here are some tips to reduce house construction cost:
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Select the plot carefully
Selecting a plot is the main factor that can decrease or increase your construction cost. Always check the resources and accessibility easily available on your plot, such as water, electricity, and accessibilities to markets, roads, and schools, etc. - Check soil integrity
Soil can have a high impact on your budget. The softer the soil is, the deeper and stronger the foundation. Always make sure to have a soil test so it won’t impact your budget. -
Prepare the desired layout
Hiring an architect can save you from a lot of trouble. Architects don’t only design 4 wall structures but can have you spending more than 50% of your intended budget without their designs. -
Project management
Coordination is essential with everyone working on your project. If there is a gap in coordination, your project can derail from the plan and hence cost you more than planned.
3. What are the regulatory norms?
Regulatory norms are following the government rules and safety protocols for constructing a house. The government has set some rules for the construction of a house or a building like:
- The height of the building should not be more than 15 metres
- Balconies should not be more than 3 feet
- Every building or a house should have parking in them
- The distance between the central point of the road and the building should be 4.50 metres
4. What is the cost of construction materials?
It is always good to know the house construction cost before making the budget or starting the project. Here are some basics you need for house construction and how much they can affect your net worth:
- Cement: a bag of cement costs is Rs.300
- Bricks: One brick cost is Rs.6 to Rs.10
- Sand: Per Tonne of sand cost Rs.1600 to Rs.3300
- Steel: Per kg of steel costs Rs.45
- Labour Rate: Rs.200 per sq
- Door Frame: 1800 per unit
- Steel: Per kg of steel costs Rs.45
- Door: type 1 costs Rs.3500 per unit, and type 2 costs Rs.2500 per unit
- Kota Stone: Rs.40 per sq feet
5. What is the average cost of constructing a house in India?
The house construction cost estimate in India depends on many factors such as designing, labour charges, machinery used, the material chosen, interiors cost, and finishing cost. The average home construction of 1000 sq ft can cost up to Rs.1300 to Rs.5000 per sq feet. Also, it depends on the number of floors you will have. Each floor requires expenses, but floors other than the ground floor cost less because the layout and strength are always on the ground floor.
6. What should I be concerned about when building a house?
When you decide to build a house, make sure to make these considerations before starting the construction:
- Ensure the location is good
Selecting a plot is the main factor that can decrease or increase your construction cost. Always check the resources and accessibility easily available on your plot, such as water, electricity, and accessibilities to markets, roads, and schools, etc. - Check soil integrity
Soil can have a high impact on your budget. The softer the soil is, the deeper and stronger the foundation. Always make sure to have a soil test so it won’t impact your budget. - Prepare the desired layout
Hiring an architect can save you from a lot of trouble. Architects don’t only design 4 wall structures but can have you spending more than 50% of your intended budget without their designs. - Project management
Coordination is essential with everyone working on your project. If there is a gap in coordination, your project can derail from the plan and hence cost you more than planned.
7. Whom should I contact for layout designing?
People get very confused when it comes to layout designing. They get confused about whether to call an architect or an interior designer
An architect is a person who is responsible for the façade and the structure of the house. In contrast, an interior designer is responsible for only the interior of the house.
An architect is a person who is approached when a building is needed to build from the ground level, or a place needs renovation. On the other hand, an interior designer is called when space requires a new design or requires a new facelift.
An architect is a person who is responsible for the façade and the structure of the house. In contrast, an interior designer is responsible for only the interior of the house.
An architect is a person who is approached when a building is needed to build from the ground level, or a place needs renovation. On the other hand, an interior designer is called when space requires a new design or requires a new facelift.
8. How much time does it take to build a house?
Various factors can affect the time required to construct a house or a building.
When you decide to build a house, make sure to make these considerations before starting the construction:
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Size
If we talk about 1900-2000 sq feet with 2 story houses, it usually takes 4-5 months to construct. -
Designing
A contractor has experience in designing. But for a newcomer, it might take a long time before even starting the work.
9. How to assign the construction work?
Multiple processes take place step by step to construct a house successfully. Here are those steps in order:
House construction takes a lot of time, effort and resources. However, after this process is finished the satisfaction that it provides to the family that is going to change that house into a home is like no other.
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Paperwork
The construction of a house in a developed city requires approvals of the house’s layout by the municipal organisations. This involves a lot of paperwork after which the construction can start with the set budget. -
Making layout
The approved design is marked on the ground, and then the final design is marked on the ground with accurate orientation and dimensions. -
Construction work
After the markings, the construction work is ready to start on the ground level. After making the ground level exterior, the structure will have a vision. -
Interior
When the construction is over, it’s time to design and make interiors. -
Finalising
Check if everything is in accordance with the plan or not.
House construction takes a lot of time, effort and resources. However, after this process is finished the satisfaction that it provides to the family that is going to change that house into a home is like no other.