When planning your dream home, you’ll likely come across the option of a barndominium—a metal-structured building often converted into living space. At first glance, a barndominium may seem like an affordable, trendy alternative to a traditional home. But when you dig deeper into the details—cost, quality, value, and lifestyle—a custom-built home with Severyn Homes offers far more long-term benefits.
Let’s compare the two so you can make the best choice for your future.
What Is a Barndominium?
Barndominiums (or “barndos”) are structures that typically start as large, open metal barns or pole buildings. They’re then customized into living spaces, often featuring loft-style layouts and minimal interior walls.
They’ve grown in popularity thanks to their rustic look and perceived affordability. However, the true cost and practicality of barndominiums often paint a different picture.
Initial Costs: Barndominium vs. New Home
At first, barndominiums may seem like a budget-friendly option. But here’s the reality:
- Barndominiums: While the base structure may cost less to build, finishing out the interior to meet residential standards—including plumbing, insulation, electrical systems, and high-end finishes—can quickly drive costs up. Additionally, financing a barndominium can be more difficult, with fewer lenders willing to fund unconventional builds.
- New Homes with Severyn Homes: A new custom-built home may have a higher upfront cost per square foot, but you get a turn-key product designed for comfort, efficiency, and long-term durability. Plus, new homes often qualify for more traditional mortgage options, making financing easier and more predictable.
Long-Term Value and Resale
One of the biggest differences comes when you consider long-term value:
- Barndominiums: Resale value can be unpredictable, as they appeal to a very specific type of buyer. They also may not appraise as well as traditional homes, limiting equity growth.
- Severyn Homes: A custom new home not only offers timeless appeal but also consistent resale value. With higher demand from a wide pool of buyers, your home’s value is more likely to grow over time.
Energy Efficiency and Maintenance
Energy costs and ongoing upkeep are often overlooked during the planning process:
- Barndominiums: Metal buildings require additional insulation to achieve energy efficiency, and without it, heating and cooling bills can soar. The metal structure can also be prone to condensation, leading to potential moisture issues.
- Severyn Homes: With modern building techniques and materials, Severyn Homes ensures your home is built for energy efficiency from day one. That means lower utility bills, a more comfortable living environment, and less maintenance down the road.
Lifestyle and Customization
- Barndominiums: They offer a unique aesthetic but may limit design flexibility due to the structure’s framework. If you’re looking for traditional layouts or extensive customization, you might face challenges.
- Severyn Homes: Every home is built with your lifestyle in mind. From open floor plans to detailed finishes, you have full control over design choices, ensuring your new home reflects your personal style and practical needs.
Why Severyn Homes Is the Better Investment
At Severyn Homes, we believe building your dream home shouldn’t just be about the initial cost—it should be about value, comfort, and long-term savings.
- Higher resale value
- Easier financing options
- Superior energy efficiency
- Fully customizable layouts
- Durable construction for generations to come
While barndominiums may catch your eye as a trendy or seemingly cheaper option, a custom new home with Severyn Homes delivers real value that lasts a lifetime.
Next Steps
If you’re weighing the choice between a barndominium or a new home, let the experts at Severyn Homes guide you. Our team will work with you to design and build a home that matches your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
📞 Contact Severyn Homes today to start planning your dream home.
