Building a Barndominium: DIY vs. General Contractor

Your Pinterest board is likely filled with post-frame building inspiration. From open-concept living spaces to matte black metal exteriors with cedar trusses, you're inspired to build a barndominium. You might also fall into the camp thinking that this is a more affordable housing solution (it can be if you DIY most of it).

Once you have selected your land, chosen a barndominium floor plan, and outlined a rough budget, it's time to determine who will build your new home. You may be wondering whether to use a general contractor or DIY parts of your build to keep your budget in line. 

In this blog, we will break down the differences between DIY and general contracting your barndominium, as well as ask key questions to help you decide which route is best for your post-frame construction project.

1. The DIY Path: Becoming the Owner-Builder

Watching home improvement shows on TV or YouTube might lead you to believe that it's fun and you just have to swing a hammer to save money. However, to truly save money, it means taking on more responsibilities of the construction process, beyond just building.

DIY Responsibilities also might include:

• Creating and managing the overall project budget.
• Hiring, scheduling, and paying all subcontractors (excavators, plumbers, electricians, etc.).
• Ordering materials and ensuring they arrive on time.
• Obtaining permits and passing inspections.
• Problem-solving every issue that arises on the job site.

The Pros:

• Maximum Cost Savings: The primary benefit. You save the 10-20% fee that a General Contractor would charge.
• Complete Control: Every single decision, from foundation bolts to paint color, is yours.
• Sense of Accomplishment: The immense pride that comes from managing your home build from the ground up.

The Cons:

• Massive Time Commitment: It's a full-time job.
• High Stress & Risk: You are financially and legally responsible for all mistakes, delays, and budget overruns.
• The Subcontractor Challenge: Finding and vetting reliable tradespeople without an established network is difficult.
• Financing Hurdles: Lenders are often more hesitant to approve construction loans for owner-builders without a proven track record.

2. The General Contractor Path: Hiring a Professional

A general contractor is a construction professional with experience in the building construction process. A general contractor has connections with reputable electricians, plumbers, land excavators, framers, drywallers, and other construction professionals.

A general contractor hires specialized subcontractors to perform all or portions of the construction work. They help manage the project schedule to ensure your project stays on time and help pivot when change orders or delays arise.

Responsibilities of a General Contractor:

• Coordinates with design & engineering
• Procures materials and notes of long-lead time items
• Communicates and coordinates with all parties involved
• Provides a detailed budget and timeline.
• Use their established network of trusted subcontractors.
• Handles all scheduling, ordering, and site management.
• Ensure the project is built to code and passes all inspections.
• Assume the risk and liability for the project's execution.
• Construction and safety management

The Pros:

• Expertise & Peace of Mind: You're paying for experience, which prevents costly mistakes and reduces stress.
• Time Savings: Frees you to focus on your job and family while the build progresses efficiently.
• Established Network: GCs provide access to proven, high-quality tradespeople.
• Predictable Process: A good GC ensures the project stays on schedule and within budget.

The Cons:

• Higher Cost: The GC's fee (10-25%) is the most significant drawback.
• Less Day-to-Day Control: You must trust your GC's process and decisions.
• Finding the Right One: The success of your project depends entirely on hiring a reputable, trustworthy, and competent GC.

3.Before You Decide: 3 Critical Questions to Ask Yourself

Now that you understand the responsibilities of both a DIY barn building vs. hiring a general contractor, it is time to decide what is right for you. Below, we have three main questions to help you make a decision.

• Question 1: What Are Your Actual Skills?

Be honest. Do you have experience with project management, reading blueprints, budgeting, and negotiation? Or just basic home repairs? Managing a build is a big commitment.

When comparing construction methods, the advantage of post-frame construction over traditional home building is that once FBi Buildings has the shell of the pole barn home up, you can take your time (as long as your loan allows) to finish the interior.

• Question 2: How Much Time Do You Realistically Have?

This isn't just a weekend project. It requires daily phone calls, site visits, and addressing ongoing issues. If you have a demanding job, can't leave midday to check on the site, or have work trips or vacations, this opportunity may not be suitable for you. A delayed DIY build can cost more long term (extended rent, storage fees) than a GC's fee.

• Question 3: How Much Can You Budget for Professional Help?

Calculate 10-25% of your total estimated build cost. Is that a price you're willing to pay for peace of mind and a professionally managed project? Conversely, if you opt for a DIY approach, do you have a contingency fund of at least 20% to cover inevitable mistakes and overages?

4.The Hybrid Approach: A Possible Middle Ground

Option C is a hybrid approach where you act as your own GC for certain phases, which might be the most cost-effective option. This could entail renting a backhoe and performing site preparation and land clearing before you begin. It could also be ordering a DIY barndominium kit and assembling the shell yourself. If your county allows it, you could run the electricity inside. You could do the drywall, paint, or install cabinets. This can save some money while mitigating risk on the most technical parts.

Will You DIY, Hire a GC, or Take a Hybrid Approach?

The DIY route is for those with extensive time, relevant project management skills, and a high tolerance for risk. The GC route is for those who prioritize a smooth, predictable process and are willing to pay for expertise and peace of mind.

There is no "wrong" answer, only the one that best fits your life, finances, and skill set.

Are you planning a barndominium build? Contact us today for a free quote!