(note--This calculation is approximate and intended as a first estimate for those wishing to build their own homes. An actual, detailed project budget needs to be developed prior to construction, financing or contract for any project.)

(note--Construction budgets of this type typically do not include costs for land, financing, surveys, insurance, utility line and road extensions to the property line, out buildings, furnishings, draperies, landscaping or utility connect (tap) fees).

(basis- strawbale homes generally cost the same as equivalent quality conventional construction in your area...the straw is cheaper, the stucco and plaster more expensive...given you have adequate knowledge, experience, training and proper design for bale construction...if not...adjust the price up accordingly.)

SQUARE FOOT CALCULATION

(1) Measure the exterior dimensions of your finished living space ______sqft

(2) Add 50% of the area of all enclosed but unfinished spaces ______sqft

ie. garages, covered decks, unfinished basements

(3) Add 25% of the area of all uncovered decks ______sqft

Builder's Square Footage (total)______sqft

BUILDING COST

(a) Determine the "going" local cost for comparable quality

conventional buildings in $/ sq ft. (good sources are

local appraisers, real estate agents and builders.) ______$/sq ft

(b) If you plan to do all your own contracting, deduct 10% ______$/sq ft

(only do this if you are experienced with building trades

have a big block of free time and are a good negotiator)

(c) If you plan to do actual project work yourself deduct:

5% if you're unskilled and need to produce income

during the project

10% if you are semi-skilled and can work full time

20% if you're skilled and have a year available and/or

friends willing to help. ______$/sq ft

(d) If you plan to shop for and use used materials extensively

deduct 10% ______$/sq ft

Deduct the reductions you've allowed and derive your

adjusted per square foot building cost ______$/sq ft

BASIC BUILDING COST

Multiply the Builder's Square Footage by the Adjusted

Per Square Foot Building Cost to get your total cost $_____________

ADDITIONAL SYSTEMS COSTS

Items such as those listed below will increase the cost of your building.

Research the cost of these systems, if you plan to use them and add

them to your budget.

Photovoltaic

Gray Water

Water Catchment

Water Filtration

Low-Toxic Construction

(get estimates from service providers or Smart Shelter)

Total added costs $____________

TOTAL BUILDING COST

Add the Basic Building Cost and Additional Systems Costs

to estimate the total cost of the building itself. $_____________

"THE WHOLE ENCHILADA"

Now add the non-included costs for the rest of the project:

land costs

financing

insurance

utility lines to property

tap fees

design fees

furnishings

landscaping

Total Project Cost $________________

(Note- this is a preliminary estimate- the next round of design, investigation and detailed budget development will be based on more specific information...typically allow yourself

a 10-15% fudge factor at this stage or get ready to cut back your requirements)