Thinking about putting up a new home but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone. Thousands of people are looking for ways to get a solid house built without spending a fortune. The good news? You can shave off a huge chunk of the cost by making smart choices early on.
The first place to start is the house plan. Simpler shapes—like a rectangle or square—use fewer materials and cut down on labor. Avoid complex rooflines, fancy arches, or extra wings unless they’re absolutely essential. A compact footprint also means you spend less on foundations, heating, and cooling. Look at the "Least Expensive House Styles to Build" article for a quick list of designs that naturally keep costs low.
Next, think about the number of rooms. A two‑bedroom, one‑bath layout can serve most small families and still feel spacious if you use open‑plan living areas. Open plans reduce the need for interior walls, which saves on timber, plaster, and paint. If you need a third bedroom, consider designing it as a flexible space that can double as a home office or storage room.
Materials are where most of the budget goes, so shop smart. Look for locally sourced bricks or blocks—they travel a shorter distance and often come cheaper than imported options. Reclaimed timber, recycled steel, and even shipping containers can make sturdy, stylish structures for a fraction of the cost.
Don’t overlook the power of prefabricated components. Factory‑built wall panels and roof trusses arrive ready to install, cutting on‑site labor time dramatically. When you combine prefabs with a simple design, you can finish a house in weeks instead of months, which means lower financing costs too.
Another tip is to go for energy‑efficient choices that pay off later. Installing good insulation now may seem pricey, but it reduces heating bills for years to come. Same goes for double‑glazed windows—slightly higher upfront cost, big savings on energy.
If you’re handy, DIY some of the finishing work. Painting, laying flooring, or even assembling flat‑pack furniture can shave off labor expenses. Just make sure you follow safety guidelines and local building codes.
Finally, keep an eye on waste. Order materials in exact quantities, and reuse off‑cuts wherever possible. A little planning here can prevent unnecessary purchases and keep your budget tidy.
Building cheap doesn’t mean you have to settle for a shabby home. By choosing a simple design, sourcing smart materials, and staying on top of waste, you can create a comfortable, durable house that fits your wallet. Start with a clear plan, compare a few suppliers, and you’ll be surprised how much you can save without sacrificing quality.
Discover the cheapest ways to build a home, from modular and manufactured houses to tiny, container, and earthbag constructions, plus cost breakdowns and choosing tips.