Understanding the Cost to Build
Why There Isn’t One Simple Price Per Square Foot
“How much does it cost to build?” is one of the most common questions we receive—and one of the hardest to answer without first understanding the property and the project.
Two similar homes can have very different final costs depending on where they’re being built, the condition of the property, available utilities, site preparation, local building requirements, and the finishes selected.
For example, we may need to determine:
- Whether the property is inside city limits or in the county
- Whether city water and sewer are available or a well and septic system are needed
- How far utilities need to be extended to reach the building site
- Whether land clearing, dirt work, or grading is necessary
- Whether the property has a current survey
- Whether setbacks or easements affect the available building area
- Whether an HOA, city, or county has specific building or architectural requirements
- What permits, engineering, or other approvals will be required
These aren’t questions we expect every client to know before contacting us.
Part of our job is helping you identify these requirements early so we can develop a more realistic picture of what your complete project may involve.
Not sure what your property needs? Let’s figure it out together.
Building Pricing
Once we understand your property, plans, selections, and project requirements, we can establish more accurate construction pricing.
Unless otherwise specified in your proposal, Pocket Haus Construction’s building pricing is intended to cover the primary construction of your selected home or structure according to the approved plans and specifications.
Because every property is different, certain site-development costs may be separate from the primary building price. Your individual proposal and construction contract will clearly outline what is—and is not—included for your specific project.
What may not be included in my building price?
Unless specifically included in your proposal or construction contract, additional property or site-development expenses may include:
Land, land clearing, additional dirt work or extensive grading, electrical service runs exceeding 300 feet, water wells, driveways longer than 50 feet, landscaping, irrigation systems, retaining walls, septic systems, additional concrete or flatwork, and unusual site-development costs.
These expenses can vary considerably depending on the property and local requirements. We work to identify potential additional costs as early as possible so you have a clearer understanding of your complete project budget.
Do I need to already own land?
You don't need to have every detail figured out before contacting Pocket Haus Construction.
If you already own property, we can help evaluate important factors that may affect your project, including local requirements, utilities, setbacks, easements, and site conditions.
If you're still exploring your options, you're welcome to contact us to discuss what you're hoping to build and the considerations you should keep in mind.
Can you help determine what I can build on my property?
Yes. Before moving too far into the design process, we'll need to determine whether the proposed project can be built on your property.
This may include reviewing neighborhood or HOA requirements, city or county regulations, zoning restrictions, setbacks and easements, allowable square footage, utility requirements, and other applicable building restrictions.
Do you offer financing?
Clients using construction financing may work with a lender of their choice or with one of the local banks Pocket Haus Construction regularly works with.
Depending on the lender and project, financing options may include construction loans, land and construction financing, and one-time-close construction loans.
Additional financing information is available upon request.
Can I pay cash for my project?
Yes. For cash-funded projects, a 5% refundable deposit is required to begin the pre-construction process.
This allows Pocket Haus Construction to begin necessary legal and administrative work, permitting when applicable, ordering materials with longer lead times, and preparing the project for construction.
Once construction begins, invoices are generally issued weekly or biweekly based on project progress and activity.
Do you offer a new construction warranty?
Eligible Pocket Haus Construction projects may include a 1-2-10 new construction warranty program, commonly providing coverage relating to one year of workmanship, two years of systems, and ten years of structural coverage.
Specific coverage, limitations, eligibility requirements, and warranty terms will be provided with your individual project documents.
Tarrant County • Parker County • Wise County • Johnson County • Hood County
Projects outside these areas may also be considered depending on the location and scope of work. If you aren’t sure whether your property falls within our building area, reach out. We’ll be happy to take a look.
