Project Pricing

Pricing based on price per square foot is a tool that can be used to make a general price range assumption or “ball park” estimate however it is very unreliable due to numerous variables that can significantly skew the final results, making it difficult to provide an accurate prediction of the overall cost.

At Semler Homes fairness and transparency in pricing is one of our core mission values which is why we employ the cost + percentage approach to calculate the exact building and site development costs. The cost + percentage approach ensures our customers get the best value for their investment, receiving exactly what they desired without being overcharged and paying for any unnecessary extras or “fluff.” We are a one stop shop meaning we do all the building and site development. If there is certain work you would like to perform on your build we would certainly discuss that with you and determine if that is something we could allow.

Prior to entering into a purchase agreement, Semler Homes will develop a preliminary estimate of your building and site development costs which will include the cost of construction, contingency allowance, real estate commissions and contractor fee. If you decide to move forward after the preliminary estimate you will enter into a cost + percentage purchase agreement with Semler Homes and upon completion of home construction Semler Homes will collect final subcontractor invoice statements and adjust the sales price up or down according to the final calculations.

In order for Semler Homes to complete the preliminary estimate, a complete set of building plans (Blueprints) prepared by a Semler Homes approved designer along with some basic specifications will be required. Building Plans are required to be drawn to 1/4” scale and include detailed elevations of all sides, all detailed finished and unfinished floors including the foundation level, detailed building cross sections and are required to meet or exceed all applicable MN building and energy codes. Written permission from the home designer to build the home design will also be required. Semler Homes will not estimate home designs printed from home design websites, other home builders designs, or hand drawn “napkin” sketches.

Homes being built upon undeveloped sites (Raw Land) will require a certificate of survey by licensed land surveyor and septic borings + design by a MN licensed septic designer in order for Semler Homes to estimate site development allowances for site prep, dirt work, septic system, utilities and also to verify all required zoning setbacks are able to be met.

Construction Items that have a major impact on construction costs include but are not limited to;

  • Above grade finished square footage

  • Foundation Size and Type ie; Block vs Poured

  • Concrete Size and Finishes ie; Patios, Aprons, Sidewalks, Driveways, etc.

  • Floor Systems ie; concrete, joist, truss, etc.

  • Roof Size, Pitch, Complexity and Roofing Materials ie; Shingle vs Steel

  • Complexity of home design ie; angles, wall height, type of materials, etc.

  • Garage Size and Finish

  • Size, Type and Number of Windows and Doors and other Window options ie; Brand, Window Frame Color, insulation value, grids, jambs, etc.

  • Size & Number of Bathrooms

  • Size & Number of Bedrooms

  • HVAC Options

  • Electrical Options

  • Interior Finish Options ie; Flooring, Countertops, Tile, Millwork, Cabinets, Plumbing Fixtures, Light Fixtures, Wall/Ceiling Finish, Wood Finish, etc.

  • Exterior Finish Options ie; Siding & Soffit Type, Gutters, Stone, Roofing Type, Accents, etc.

  • Appliances

  • Fireplace and Fireplace Finishes

  • Site Cost ie; Lot Cost, Lot Survey, Site Prep, Erosion Control, Tree & Stump Removal, Site Grading, Fill Dirt, Soil Corrections, Dewatering, Septic System Design & Install or City Sewer, Well or City Water, Power, Driveway, Permits, Site Access, Site Room, External Obstacles, Landscaping, etc.

Be sure to let us know if you are a present or past member of the US Armed Forces or a first responder as we love to give discounts to the folks that keep us free and safe, thank you for your service!

Please feel free to contact Jason to learn more about the entire process and how we can assist you every step of the way.