Episode 76: Thinking about building your own home and wondering what it will really cost? This episode shows you how to get an accurate owner‑builder budget without relying on unreliable “cost per square foot” charts, books, or AI guesses. Steve explains why the only numbers that matter come from real plans priced by real local contractors, and how a detailed, permit‑ready plan set lets subs give serious bids instead of guesses. You’ll learn the difference between hard costs (foundation, windows, roof, materials, labor) and soft costs (plans, engineering, permits), how Landmark’s one‑stop design and engineering package actually reduces change orders and surprises later, and where DIY work truly saves money versus where you’re better off hiring pros (especially for HVAC and other critical systems). Steve also breaks down how owner‑builders can realistically use their own skills plus Landmark’s detailed plans and support to manage subs, control costs, and avoid underestimating key items like windows, foundations, and code‑driven requirements such as egress and tempered glass — turning a vague “I want to build a house” into a confident, funded, line‑item budget. Read more »
