Building a Barndominium: Expert Guide to Construction

Imagine a home that merges a barn’s rugged simplicity with all the comforts of modern living. Barndominiums are on the rise, and they are desired for their airy layouts, customizable exteriors, and seamless blend of rustic and contemporary elements.

As a 50-state, Veteran-Owned, FDIC-Insured bank, we’re proud to finance barndominiums through an array of in-house construction loan programs—FHA, VA, Conventional, Portfolio, and more—so you can rest assured your dream home is within reach.

While some lenders shy away from unconventional builds, we embrace them. In fact, we partner with many builders nationwide and have guided countless successful closings.

Whether you envision a spacious workshop, a cozy family nest, or an open-concept showplace, a barndominium can accommodate your vision—often at a lower cost than a traditional build. The secret lies in understanding the nuances of design, financing, and local building codes—crucial steps on your journey to bringing the barndominium of your dreams to life.

Why Barndominiums Are Captivating Today’s Homeowners

• Cost Efficiency: Simpler architecture and metal structures can reduce labor and materials.

• Open Layouts: Ideal for flexible floor plans, large communal areas, and creative interior design.

• Rural to Suburban Appeal: Originally popular in farmland settings, barndominiums have found their way into new subdivisions and communities that welcome custom building styles.

• Architectural Uniqueness: Distinct exteriors and mix-and-match finishes stand out in a sea of cookie-cutter homes.

• Faster Construction Times: Metal frames and pre-engineered components can trim weeks off typical building schedules.

Different Barndominium Styles and Amenities

1. Traditional Barn Aesthetic

Overview

• Reflects the essence of a working barn: pitched roofs, large doors, and exposed beams

• Interiors might include authentic wood finishes or lofted bedrooms overlooking a double-height living area

Key Amenities

• Loft Spaces: Great for extra bedrooms, home offices, or hobby rooms

• Wraparound Porches: Expand entertaining areas and connect indoor-outdoor living

• Exposed Wood Beams: Provide rustic character and structural charm

2. Modern or Contemporary Barndominiums

Overview

• Utilizes sleek lines, large windows, and industrial-chic elements (e.g., metal siding, polished concrete floors)

• Often suits urban or suburban settings aiming for a fresh design edge

Key Amenities

• Floor-to-Ceiling Glass Panels: Invite natural light and striking views

• Minimalist Interiors: Emphasize open space and airy simplicity

• Energy-Efficient Features: High-grade insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and solar-ready rooftops

3. Hybrid Barndominiums

Overview

• Marries the rustic appeal of wood beams and barn doors with modern comforts like granite countertops or recessed lighting

• Can be tailored to create a balanced blend of warm farmhouse and contemporary flair

Key Amenities

• Smart Home Integrations: Automated lighting, security systems, and thermostats

• Multi-Purpose Great Rooms: Combine dining, relaxing, and entertainment under a cathedral ceiling

• Customized Exteriors: Mix of metal, stone, wood, and modern accents like aluminum-framed windows

4. Custom Add-Ons and Amenities

• Attached Garages or Workshops: Perfect for car enthusiasts, hobbyists, or agricultural operations

• Airplane Hangars: Barndominiums in certain communities include hangars for pilots

• Motorcoach and RV Storage: Large roll-up doors and extended bays

• Outdoor Living Spaces: Decks, patios, or even rooftop lounges to enjoy scenic views

• Spacious Kitchens: Designed for entertaining, with ample room for an island or farmhouse table

Financing Essentials for Barndominium Builds

One-Time Close (OTC) Construction Loans

• What It Is: A single loan that covers land purchase (if needed) and construction, culminating in a permanent mortgage after completion.

• Why It Matters: Saves on multiple closing costs, locks in interest rates early, and simplifies the process with one lender.

• Typical Uses: Straightforward projects where a stable rate from start to finish is ideal.

Two-Time Close (TTC) Construction Loans

• What It Is: Two separate loans—one for land, then another for construction.

• Why It Matters: Offers flexibility to refinance or pursue different lenders at each stage.

• Typical Uses: Buyers who want more control over financing terms or need to build in phases.

Specialized Barndominium Loans

• What It Is: Some lenders specifically tailor loans to barndominiums, understanding metal construction, unique appraisals, and local codes.

• Why It Matters: A barndominium-savvy lender can navigate potential appraisal obstacles and ensure the project meets residential building requirements.

Exclusive BuildBuyRefi Benefits Worth Thousands

1. *$50,000 Extra Program

Access up to *$50,000 in additional funding before or after closing for:

• Custom finishes

• Workshop equipment

• ADU construction

• Debt consolidation

• Landscaping

• Interior upgrades

2. 30% Realtor Commission Savings

Available in 42 states, our exclusive realtor network offers substantial savings:

• Reduce closing costs

• Buy down interest rates

• Offset land expenses

• Fund premium features

Steps to Buying Land and Building a Barndominium

1. Research Local Zoning and Permitting

   • Confirm whether your land or neighborhood allows barn-like structures.

   • Check for any unique county or HOA guidelines on exterior materials and agricultural classifications.

2. Choose a Trusted Barndominium Builder

   • Builders should be experienced with metal-framed or wood-framed barn projects.

   • Ask about design flexibility and see if they handle well systems, septic, or any off-grid utilities.

3. Select the Right Financing Structure

   • Decide between OTC vs. TTC loans (or specialized barndominium financing) based on budget, risk tolerance, and desired timeline.

   • Consult lenders who handle non-traditional builds regularly to avoid hiccups.

4. Secure Builder Contracts and Architectural Plans

   • Provide detailed layouts, cost estimates, and timelines for lender approvals.

   • Factor in contingencies for additions like an attached garage, loft expansions, or high-end finishes.

5. Close on Financing and Begin Construction

   • Work closely with your lender to manage draw schedules during construction.

   • Stay in touch with your builder on key milestones—like framing and final inspections.

6. Add Final Touches

   • Consider using the extra *$50K program for interior upgrades, a greenhouse, or landscaping.

   • Leverage the 30% realtor commission discount if buying land or selling another property to free up equity for your barndominium.

Barndominium Pros and Cons at a Glance

Pros

• Cost-Effective Builds: Streamlined designs and materials can keep budgets lower than traditional homes.

• Design Flexibility: Great for open-concept living, combined workshop areas, or unique loft layouts.

• Rural and Suburban Appeal: Works well on large parcels or even in subdivisions where custom housing is allowed.

• Potential for Strong Resale Value: Growing buyer interest in barndos can translate into boosted marketability.

Cons

• Appraisal Hurdles: Few comparable barndo properties in some regions can challenge lenders.

• Insurance & Financing Nuances: Barndominiums might be viewed as agricultural or mixed-use by certain insurers or lenders.

• Sound and Temperature Control: High ceilings and metal exteriors require thoughtful insulation strategies.

• Local Regulations: Zoning, HOA bylaws, and building permit processes can be more complex than for a typical single-family home.

Why Choose BuildBuyRefi for Your Barndominium Loan?

Unlike traditional lenders or brokers who might struggle with barndominium projects, BuildBuyRefi specializes in metal building construction financing. As a direct lender, we offer:

• In-house decisions (no broker delays)

• Nationwide lending in all 50 states

• Dedicated construction division

• Network of approved builders

• FDIC-insured institution

• Special loan committee for unique cases

• Veteran-owned and operated

• Finding ways to say “Yes” when others say “No”

FAQs About Barndominium Construction

Bringing Your Barndominium Vision to Life

Barndominiums deliver an appealing balance between rustic charm and modern amenities, along with the potential for cost savings, expansive interiors, and aesthetic flexibility. Every detail can be tailored for unique lifestyles, from the choice of metal exteriors to specialized workshops. The challenge often lies in finding a knowledgeable lender and builder combo to navigate permits, appraisals, and loan structures—mainly if a one-time or two-time close financing is involved.

Taking the Next Step

• Explore Land Options: Narrow down regions and lot sizes that fit the barn-home style.

• Consult with Barndominium-Savvy Lenders: Discuss loan structures, interest rates, and extra funding programs like the *$50,000 consumer loan offer.

• Leverage Realtor Savings: Tap into the 30% commission discount in 42 states to save thousands or reallocate those funds toward enhancing the barndo.

With strategic planning, the right lending solution, and a builder who understands barn-style construction, barndominium owners can transform a simple concept into a striking, comfortable, and highly functional home—one that stands out in both design and cost-effectiveness.

Interested homebuyers, landowners, or renovation enthusiasts can contact our in-house barndominium team for personalized guidance and to kickstart the journey toward a one-of-a-kind dwelling that merges old-world charm with contemporary comfort.