Home Loans for Barndominiums: Everything You Need to Know (2024)

FAQs

How hard is it to get a loan to build a barndominium? ›

Difficulty obtaining USDA loan: Though far from impossible, obtaining a USDA loan for a barndominium may be challenging. Many USDA lenders are unfamiliar with these structures and may be reluctant to finance their purchase.

While criteria varies between institutions, ideal credit scores for the best barndominium loan rates start around 720+ or higher. This provides more assurance to lenders given barndos don't yet have comprehensive comparable sales data that appraisers prefer.

Appraisal and Valuation Issues

Banks require appraisals to determine the property's value, which in turn, informs their lending decisions. Because barndominiums are relatively unique and fewer in number compared to traditional homes, finding comparable sales (comps) necessary for accurate valuation is difficult.

Some of the more common loan types (FHA, VA) may not be available if you're trying to build a Barndominium. The lack of comparable sales (for the appraisal process) in the market usually prohibits the use of these types of loans. Luckily, conventional construction loans are available, as are a couple of other options.

Interior + Exterior Design

All the finishing touches – drywall, paint, built-in furniture, moulding, roofing, siding, and fascia – can take 1 or 2 months, depending on the level of extravagance and detail. Minimalists will save time in this stage! All in all, most barndominiums take about 6 months to build.

While a barndominium is very similar to a traditionally built home, insuring them can be much more difficult. There can be several reasons why insurance companies are hesitant to insure these structures. The primary reason is that these homes are non-standard construction, which means they lack historical data.

Barndominiums can make fantastic homes for a fraction of the cost of traditional homes. This makes them an especially great option for those looking to purchase: A large home for less. A fully customizable space.

Barndominiums can be cheaper than traditional homes as a future barndominium owner has the option to be their own general contractor and buy a barndominium house plan directly online, saving anywhere from 15-20%.

As such, it is more difficult to assess the resale value of a Barndominium. Unlike modular homes and trailers, Barndominiums maintain their value and are likely to increase over time. If you are purely looking for a quick resale investment, a Barndominium may not be your best option.

Why do barndominiums cost less? ›

Barndominiums, with their simplified design and framework, can be built more swiftly. The open concept of barndos and the use of prefabricated components or kits often streamline the construction process, reducing the time needed to complete the structure. This translates to fewer labor hours and lower labor costs.

Permit singlewide manufactured homes in a Fannie Mae PERS approved project in compliance with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac requirements. Added co-ops as an ineligible property type. Added barndominiums and shouses as ineligible, unique property types.

The biggest cost of building a barndominium comes from purchasing and building the metal shell, including the roof, doors, and windows. Other major exterior features that can affect the building cost include: Metal siding.

Constructed with metal, a barndo offers superior protection from severe weather. The steel structure of a steel barndominium has a higher wind resistance than a conventional wood frame home. While the metal integrity of your home can endure a tornado, the windows and doors may not.

A barndominium is a wise investment if you plan on entering the Los Angeles real estate scene. Barndominiums are cheaper and easier to build than conventional houses, are low maintenance, and are more durable against earthquakes and fires. They are also unique and will set you apart from other real estate investors.

North Carolina's property laws dictate that any construction, including barndominiums, must comply with zoning regulations and building codes. Builders should obtain the necessary permits before commencing construction.

Thanks to their grandeur, a barndo could appraise a little higher than your traditional 3-bedroom suburban home. Of course, each property will vary as there is a lot of freedom in the building and design of a barndominium.

Understanding Equity in Barndominiums

Barndominiums, particularly those with steel frames, are increasingly recognized for their potential to accrue equity, largely due to their durability, energy efficiency, and the growing market demand for such properties.