A Guide to Building Your Dream Home in Minnesota Everybody has a few ideas that spring to mind when picturing their dream house. Whether it’s a big and beautiful backyard perfect for hosting weekend get-togethers on the patio or designing an open-space kitchen that rivals any nearby fine dining restaurants, there are endless possibilities when it comes to daydreaming about the details of your ideal home. What if building your own dream home wasn’t as impossible as it sounds like it’d be? What if building your own home was easier than you assumed it’d be? As the biggest housing development company in Southern Minnesota, our team at Bigelow Homes knows a thing or two about helping fellow Minnesotans build their dream homes. Our pros understand that while building your own home might be easier than ever, it still takes plenty of time, money, and energy. So, if you’re seriously considering building your own house, let us add a bit of transparency to the process! Here’s our step-by-step guide to building your dream home in Minnesota. Step #1: Evaluate Costs Ah, yes, money. What else would hold you back from building your very own dream home? Before you assume that there’s no way you can afford to build your own house, let’s at least take a step back and assess what you’d hypothetically be spending before you cross it off your bucket list! Planning for upfront expenses and long-term savings is an essential part of building your dream home. According to recent statistics, the average cost to build a home in Minnesota ranges from $180,000 to $600,000, depending on size, type, materials, and location. Consider the Upfront vs. Long-Term Investment Generally speaking, it’s usually cheaper to buy an existing home upfront. However, there are several factors that can make building your own home cheaper in the long run. Building a new home often means: Using energy-efficient materials, which keep utility bills lower in the long run. Fewer repairs and maintenance costs over time, since materials/construction are fresh. A better return on investment when it comes time to sell your home. Step #2: Assess Your Budget & Lending Options Once you know your estimated home-building costs, it’s time to assess your budget and prepare your finances accordingly. Remember: It’s never too early to start covering all the bases of your financial obligations and necessities for building your dream home. How to Determine Your Custom Home Budget Let’s start by establishing a few simple questions you should ask yourself when estimating your budget requirements: Precisely how much money can you / want to spend? What are the square footage costs for the locations you’re considering? What other expenses are you factoring into your budget? (materials, labor, lot fees, property taxes, furniture, décor, landscaping, etc.) Are there any tax credits you want to qualify for? (Solar-powered materials, energy-efficient appliances, etc.) When all of your total costs become clearer, it’s time to begin mulling over all your lending options. Start contacting banks in the location you’re considering for building your home and inquire about their real estate lending options, specifically the criteria for their construction and land loans. Step #3: Choose Your Location Perhaps the best part of building your own house? Choosing exactly where you want to build it! Building the dream home for you and your family involves more than just designing a great, comfortable, and highly functional space. It means having the power to construct your house in an environment that perfectly matches your living needs, interests, and values. Are you looking for somewhere family-friendly, full of outdoor activities, and adventure? Or maybe you need a residence with a speedy commute to work? Constructing your own home comes with many advantages, from finding the ideal school district near where you live to settling down in a place that complements the way of life you aspire to. Choosing the Right Subdivision for Your MN Dream Home By selecting the right subdivision for your custom home, you can ensure all your needs are met! Here are a few of the emerging Southern Minnesota cities that offer unique charm, amenities, and lifestyle opportunities for aspiring homeowners looking to settle down. Byron: A Family-Friendly Gem The charm of a small town with the amenities necessary for modern family living For families seeking a welcoming community, Byron is an ideal choice to build your dream home. Boasting top-rated schools and a family-friendly atmosphere, this city provides a secure and nurturing environment for your dream home. Residents who live here cherish the convenience of local parks, recreational facilities, and a range of community events. Goodhue: A Hub of Creativity A balance of urban and rural living near the Mississippi River Boasting a rich history as a railroad town turned trading center, Goodhue, Minnesota, is a perfect blend of small-town living with rich culture. Goodhue has great schools for your children and features many attractions, both in the city and the surrounding county. If your family loves water, Goodhue is near the Mississippi River and Lake Pepin, both of which are surrounded by bluffs and river valleys. Nature-loving family can enjoy the Frontenac State Park, and for a bit of adult time, you can check out the Treasure Island Casino. Kasson: A Tranquil Retreat A slower pace of life while ensuring proximity to Rochester's amenities Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Minnesota, Kasson provides a tranquil retreat for those seeking a peaceful living experience. Located right along Highway 14 West, this community is home to many attractions, including the Kasson Aquatic Center, Dodge County Ice Area, and East Diamond Park. Known for its friendly community, Kasson offers many neighborhoods to choose from, so it’s easy to find a perfect location for your custom home. This is a place where homeowners can enjoy quality schools, local parks, and a close-knit neighborhood. Kasson is also home to the annual Festival in the Park celebration in August, which celebrates the town’s heritage and brings together an already close-knit community. Mantorville: Historic Elegance Meets Small-Town Charm A perfect choice for those drawn to historic elegance and small-town charm Known for its well-preserved 19th-century limestone architecture, Mantorville offers a unique setting for your dream home! Homeowners here can spend year after year exploring the scenic beauty of Mantorville's parks and enjoying the vibrant cultural scene. Watch a famous melodrama by the Mantorville Theatre Company, followed by a fine-dining experience at the historic Hubbell House restaurant. With excellent schools and a rich history, Mantorville offers a blend of charm and sophistication for your dream living experience. Pine Island: A Family-Focused Haven A close-knit neighborhood that values local parks and family-friendly events Pine Island's family-focused atmosphere provides a welcoming haven for your dream home. The city offers excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and a warm community atmosphere. It’s also a great place for outdoorsy families, providing ample opportunities for biking, hiking, and fishing. Rooted in history as a cheese haven, Pine Island offers a historic downtown with an old creamery building. This city is also known for its cheese festival in June! The locals will tell you, Pine Island is an ideal choice for families seeking a tight-knit community and a comfortable lifestyle. Rochester: Urban Comforts, Suburban Serenity The region's largest city, offering urban comforts and suburban serenity Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic, Rochester offers excellent healthcare facilities and a thriving economy. The diverse cultural scene, shopping districts, and recreational opportunities make it an attractive location for younger homeowners seeking a more dynamic lifestyle alongside the peace of suburban living. Bigelow Homes has several neighborhoods with available lots in Rochester, including Harvest West, a 55+ community. Other notable features of Rochester include summer block parties on Thursdays, historical trolley tours, a robust Arts Center, many parks, and plenty of places to eat and drink. Wabasha: Riverside Serenity & Cultural Richness A unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant cultural activities Wabasha, nestled along the Mississippi River, offers a serene riverside setting with a touch of cultural richness. Every Minnesotan needs to explore the scenic riverfront, enjoy cultural events, and experience the community spirit of Wabasha. If you seek a tranquil yet culturally enriched living experience, Wabasha is the perfect location for your dream home. Wanamingo: Tranquil Living in a Rural Oasis An ideal escape from the hustle and bustle to enjoy the peace and quiet Wanamingo, surrounded by Minnesota's rural beauty, offers a tranquil living experience in a rural oasis. With quality schools, local parks, and a tight-knit community, Wanamingo provides the perfect setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Wanamingo is also home to some unique features, such as the “UFO guy’s” house, several breweries, and access to the Zumbro River. Those looking for a tranquil lifestyle in a rural haven will thrive by building a home in Wanamingo! Zumbrota: A Quaint Haven A tranquil environment while ensuring easy access to essential amenities Nestled along the Zumbro River, Zumbrota offers a picturesque setting for your dream home. Known for its small-town charm, Homeowners here can enjoy the benefits of a tight-knit community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With parks and nature trails nearby, Zumbrota combines the comfort of rural living with modern conveniences. Step #4: Find a Qualified Home Builder in Minnesota You’ve done your daydreaming and started your research, and now you need to find the team that can make your homebuilding dreams come true. When choosing a custom home builder, finding the best match for your homebuilding needs is important. Here are a few qualities and credentials to consider: How much experience does this company have? Have they previously built homes in the location you’re considering? Do they have customization options? Do they have any referrals you can contact? Are their online reviews generally positive? Are they certified, licensed, and insured? Are they willing to meet you in person for an initial consultation? Be patient when considering which homebuilder you want to work with, as you can’t trust simply anyone to help you build your Minnesota dream home! Step #5: Consult & Vet Your Home Builder Collaborating with a reputable home builder like Bigelow Homes is the cornerstone of bringing your dream home to life. A skilled builder will bring your vision to life, working closely with you from the initial design stages through the final touches. They will actively listen to your ideas, preferences, and aspirations, ensuring that every aspect of your dream home is accounted for in the plans. From architectural styles and layout preferences to the selection of premium materials and finishes, your builder will guide you through each decision, offering expert insights and practical solutions along the way. Their experience and attention to detail will ensure your home-building journey is smooth and fulfilling, resulting in a home that reflects your unique personality and meets your functional needs. Step #6: Finalize Plans & Permits Once your home builder has refined your vision and gathered all essential design details, they will begin finalizing plans and obtaining the necessary permits. Working in collaboration with architects and engineers, your builder will create detailed blueprints that comply with the building codes and regulations in your area. These comprehensive plans serve as the foundation for the construction process and ensure that every element of your dream home is meticulously accounted for. Simultaneously, your builder will navigate the complex process of securing building permits from the local authorities, ensuring compliance with zoning laws and safety regulations. Their expertise in this critical stage expedites the process, enabling the construction to commence smoothly. Step #7: Obtain Necessary Housing Permits Obtaining the required housing permits is a crucial step in the home-building process. Your builder will handle the necessary paperwork, submitting detailed plans and documents to the relevant authorities. This process involves approvals from various departments, such as planning, zoning, and building, to ensure your home complies with all legal and safety requirements. Your builder's expertise in navigating these administrative processes saves you time and ensures your home construction proceeds on schedule. Step #8: Conduct Housing Inspections Throughout the home construction journey, housing inspections play a pivotal role in ensuring that your dream home meets quality and safety standards. Your home builder will coordinate with licensed inspectors to assess the various stages of construction, including the foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and overall structural integrity. These inspections provide valuable feedback, helping your builder proactively address potential issues and resulting in a well-built, secure home. Your builder's proactive approach to inspections reflects their commitment to delivering a home of exceptional craftsmanship and quality. Step #9: Oversee the Home Construction Process As the future homeowner, your involvement in the home construction process is encouraged and welcomed. Your builder will maintain open lines of communication, keeping you informed about progress and milestones. Regular site visits enable you to witness the transformation of your dream home and to discuss any adjustments or additional details you may wish to discuss. Whether it's selecting finishes, customizing features, or making design decisions, your builder values your input and actively incorporates your preferences into the construction process. Your partnership with the builder ensures your dream home is a true reflection of your taste, making the building process an enjoyable and rewarding journey. Bigelow Is Ready to Build Your Dream Home in Minnesota! The biggest step in building your dream home is working with an experienced, proven homebuilder company with the team and resources necessary to make your dream house a reality. At Bigelow Homes, we’ve been helping our fellow Minnesotans build their dream homes for over 40 years! Ready to get started on building your new house? Contact Bigelow Homes today to schedule a consultation with our homebuilding experts!