Building a Barndominium in Pittsburgh, PA – Your Ultimate Guide

Building your own home can be an incredible experience with a lot of advantages over buying a pre-built house. However, if you have ever looked into what it takes to get a home built, you may have been turned off of the idea. That’s why building a Pittsburgh, PA, barndominium is such a fantastic alternative. To help get you started on your barndo project, we have put together a complete guide to building a barndominium in Pittsburgh, PA, so that you can start off on the right foot.

If you are looking to build a barndominium in other parts of Pennsylvania, be sure to check out our guide on building a barndominium in Pennsylvania.

What is a Barndominium and What Are Their Advantages? 

A barndominium is a home built using the structure of a pole barn or post frame building. While these buildings are usually used for agricultural purposes like barns, warehouses, and stables, they can also be used to build amazing custom homes. With a little bit of modification, you can build a beautiful barndominium in Pittsburgh. 

One of the main advantages of building a barndominium in Pittsburgh is their durability. Because barndominiums use a series of posts that are driven into a concrete slab, they can withstand all kinds of use and abuse over the years. In an area like Pennsylvania, which gets a lot of extreme weather, this can end up saving you a lot of money down the line. 

Cost of Building a Barndominium in Pittsburgh, PA

One of the other main advantages of building a barndominium is their lower cost. For example, a traditional home in Pittsburgh will cost anywhere between $300 and $350 per square foot to build. It is important to keep in mind, though, that this will only get you the structure of the home and none of the beautiful custom touches you most likely want. 

A Pittsburgh, PA barndominium, though, is quite a bit cheaper. For the most part, you can get a barndo in the area built from somewhere between $200 and $220 per square foot. With this extra money, you can afford all the custom design elements that you would want with a home you have built yourself. 

It should be noted that the cost of building your barndominium will depend heavily on the specifics of your project. Things like the cost of labor, the cost of materials, and the type of design you have chosen will all affect the final cost. Your best bet will be to get several different quotes and make your decision from there. 

Barndominium Builders in Pittsburgh, PA

The company you choose to build your barndominium in Pittsburgh is incredibly important. They should have the experience, skills, and communication to deliver an excellent final product. Be sure to check our Pennsylvania builder directory for options to help you build your barndominium. Below are a couple of the leading builders in the area who can help you get started.

Heritage Post Frame

Heritage Post Frame is dedicated to helping you realize your true vision for your home. They will work with you through the design process and make sure that everything is up to your exact standards. This will be especially helpful if you have specific ideas in mind for your layout and design.

Stoltzfus Builders

One of the major benefits of building a barndominium is that you can get the craftsmanship that Amish construction companies are known for. Stoltzfus Builders is an Amish barndo builder dedicated to serious quality. This is important if you want to make sure your home lasts as many years as possible. 

Barndominium Kit Providers in Pittsburgh, PA

Timberhaven Log & Timber Homes

If you are going to build your barndominium from a kit, you need one that is of the highest quality. Timberhaven Log & Timber Homes offers barndominium kits built to incredibly high standards. The company is known for its commitment to excellent craftsmanship and this makes them a great choice. 

Eastern Buildings

Having options is crucial when picking a kit provider for your barndominium. Eastern Buildings has many different choices for you to pick from and a wide selection of designs. They even have a color picker feature on their website that will let you see some options right away. 

Barndominium Financing in Pittsburgh, PA

Barndominium Financing Request

One of the big challenges you may come across when building your barndominium in Pittsburgh is getting financing. Many banks are still figuring out how to classify barndominiums. Because of this, you should have a detailed construction plan ready that lays out your builder, plot of land, and timelines. You should also seek out lenders that specifically finance barndominiums. 

Some of the banks that offer financing for barndos include: 

Rural 1st 

Rural 1st offers specific barndominium construction loans for those who want to build a Pittsburgh, PA barndominium. They don’t charge a higher interest rate or require larger down payments. This can make building a barndo much more accessible. 

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp offers help getting loans from government entities like the USDA or VA. This can be incredibly helpful when trying to get the financing you need. You could end up saving a lot of money by taking advantage of these programs. 

Barndominium Floor Plans in Pittsburgh, PA

PL-62519 Walter Barndominium House Plan

If you are going to build a barndominium in Pittsburgh, you need a proper floor plan. The PL-62519 Walter barndominium house plan has a large shop and many bedrooms as well as plex rooms. If you are looking for a home that is versatile and functional, it could be a great option for you. 

PL-62520 Amelia Barndominium House Plan

Symmetry is important for any home floor plan. The PL-62520 plan has bedrooms surrounding the common space. This is perfect for anyone who has children or a large family and wants to be able to keep an eye on them. 

Barndominiums For Sale in Pittsburgh, PA

If you don’t want to build your barndominium in Pittsburgh from scratch, buying one that is already built is a great option. Just because a home is already built, that doesn’t mean that it won’t suit your needs. With a few modifications, you could make a pre-built barndo your own. 

One of the major benefits of buying a barndominium is that you don’t have to worry about the stress of the build. Even with the relative simplicity of a barndominium, building a home is a lot of work. Buying one can eliminate that stress and give you the peace of mind you need. 

Below are some examples of barndominiums for sale in Pennsylvania. However, these homes may already be sold by the time you check out the listing. That’s why it’s so important to act quickly when you find a home you absolutely love!

1864 W Schuylkill Rd, Douglassville, PA 19518

This massive barndominium is a great example of what can be done with a little bit of space and creativity. With two bedrooms and four bathrooms, it has plenty of room for all your loved ones. Plus, it has a third floor that can be converted to an apartment for some rental income. 

1565 Seven Fountains, Fort Valley, VA 22652

This gorgeous barndominium in nearby Fort Valley, VA is so beautifully constructed and designed. It has six bedrooms and three bathrooms, making it ideal for people with big families. Plus, the beautiful piece of property it sits on makes it a standout choice for people who love the great outdoors. 

Conclusion

Building a barndominium in Pittsburgh, PA, is a great way to get everything you want out of a home project. With a little bit of preparation, you can be ready when the time comes to start construction. By knowing what to expect, your home will serve you well for many, many years to come. 

If you would like more guides like this one, check out the rest of BarndominiumLife.com. There, you will find more helpful tips and tricks from the pros. You will also find featured barndominiums, barndominium floor plans, and information on financing and insurance. Knowing as much as you can will help you get the best results for your dream home.