How to Keep Your Barndominium Build Under $200K Without Sacrificing Quality

Smart trade-offs, efficient layouts, and where to put your dollars.

Buckeye Plans

11/28/20251 min read

Everyone loves the “dream build,” but staying on budget requires thought. Here’s how to keep your build under ~$200K and still get a comfortable, durable home:

  1. Choose a simple footprint & roofline — avoid complex layouts, multiple roof valleys, or excessive wrap-around porches.

  2. Right-size your heated space — smaller but efficient homes save money while keeping functionality.

  3. Phase your finish work — build a weather-tight shell first, then finish interior details (flooring, trim, tile) as funds allow.

  4. Use durable, budget-friendly materials — metal siding/roof, basic but solid windows & doors, cost-effective flooring options.

  5. Handle what you can DIY — smartly — painting, trim-work, finishing details. Leave structural, electrical and plumbing to pros for safety and code compliance.

With that approach, a plan like one of Buckeye’s modest barndo or farmhouse layouts can become a real home — without breaking the bank.