Mortgage Blog

Benefits of Barndominium's

February 3, 2024 | Posted by: Michael McMullen

Why You Should Consider Building a Barndominium in Pennsylvania

If you are looking for a new home in Pennsylvania, you may have heard of a unique type of structure called a barndominium. A barndominium, or barndo, is a term derived from “barn” and “condominium”, and it refers to a building that combines a barn-style structure with living quarters. Barndominiums are becoming more popular due to their versatility, spaciousness, and distinct aesthetic. But how do they compare to traditional houses? In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of barndominiums vs conventional homes, and why you should consider building a barndominium in Pennsylvania.

What are the benefits of barndominiums?

Barndominiums offer several advantages over conventional homes, such as:

• Affordability: Barndominiums generally have lower construction costs than traditional homes, making them a budget-friendly choice for many homeowners. On average, a barndominium can cost around $70 to $90 per square foot, while traditional homes can cost around $115 to $145 per square foot. For a 2,000-square-foot home, you could save a significant amount by choosing a barndominium over a conventional home.
• Customization: With a barndominium, you can design the interior and exterior to fit your tastes and needs. You can choose from a variety of floor plans, layouts, finishes, and features to create your dream home. You can also easily add or modify rooms, such as a garage, workshop, office, or guest suite, to suit your lifestyle.
• Durability: Built with metal or steel framing, barndominiums are often more resistant to damage from natural disasters, pests, and rot. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds, heavy snow, and hail, better than wood-framed homes. They also require less maintenance and repairs over time, saving you money and hassle in the long run.
• Lower insurance costs: The robust nature of barndominiums may result in lower insurance premiums and taxes. Since they are less prone to fire, water, and structural damage, they pose less risk to insurers. They may also qualify for lower property taxes, depending on the local regulations and classifications.

What is the drawback of barndominiums?

Barndominiums have one main challenge, which is:

• Financing difficulties: Financing a barndominium can be more challenging to secure due to its non-traditional nature. Some lenders may not be familiar with barndominiums or may consider them as commercial or agricultural properties, which may have different requirements and interest rates. You may need to shop around for a lender who is willing to finance your barndominium project or look for alternative sources of funding, such as personal loans or cash. However, there is good news: as a mortgage loan officer from Wexford PA, I am able to offer financing on barndominium builds. I have the experience and expertise to help you with your barndominium project, from start to finish. I can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide you with the best financing options for your situation. If you are interested in building a barndominium in Pennsylvania, contact me today and let’s get started.

Why build a barndominium in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania is a great place to build a barndominium for several reasons, such as:

• Climate: Pennsylvania has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, which can be enjoyed in a barndominium. A barndominium can provide a comfortable and cozy living space in the winter, as well as a cool and airy one in the summer. A barndominium can also handle the occasional snowstorms and thunderstorms that occur in Pennsylvania, thanks to its sturdy and durable construction.
• Landscape: Pennsylvania has a diverse and beautiful landscape, ranging from rolling hills and farmlands to forests and mountains. A barndominium can blend in well with the natural scenery and offer stunning views of the surroundings. A barndominium can also provide ample space for outdoor activities, such as gardening, hiking, fishing, or hunting, depending on your location and preferences.
• Market: Pennsylvania has a growing market for barndominiums, as more people are discovering their benefits and appeal. There are several barndominium builders and contractors in Pennsylvania who can help you with your project, from design to completion. You can also find several examples of barndominiums in Pennsylvania that can inspire you and show you the possibilities.

Where to build a barndominium in Pennsylvania?

If you are interested in building a barndominium in Pennsylvania, you may want to consider the following areas:

• Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh is the second-largest city in Pennsylvania and a major cultural and economic hub. It is known for its rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Pittsburgh also offers a variety of attractions, such as museums, parks, sports venues, and restaurants. Building a barndominium in Pittsburgh can give you access to all the amenities and opportunities of a big city, while still enjoying the charm and uniqueness of a barndominium.
• Cranberry Township: Cranberry Township is a suburban community in Butler County, about 20 miles north of Pittsburgh. It is one of the fastest-growing areas in Pennsylvania, with a population of over 30,000. It is also one of the most affluent and livable areas in the state, with a high median income and low crime rate. Cranberry Township has a lot to offer, such as excellent schools, shopping centers, golf courses, and parks. Building a barndominium in Cranberry Township can give you a high quality of life in a safe and convenient location.
• Wexford: Wexford is an unincorporated community in Allegheny County, about 15 miles north of Pittsburgh. It is a popular residential area, with a population of over 20,000. It is also a prosperous and desirable area, with a high median income and a low unemployment rate. Wexford has a lot of amenities, such as upscale shops, restaurants, spas, and fitness centers. Building a barndominium in Wexford can give you a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle in a prestigious and friendly community.
• Grove City: Grove City is a borough in Mercer County, about 60 miles north of Pittsburgh. It is a small and charming town, with a population of about 8,000. It is also a historic and cultural town, with a lot of heritage and character. Grove City is home to Grove City College, a private liberal arts college with a strong reputation and tradition. Grove City also has a lot of attractions, such as the Grove City Premium Outlets, the Grove City Country Club, and the Grove City Memorial Park. Building a barndominium in Grove City can give you a quaint and cozy living experience in a town with a lot of personality and spirit.
• Slippery Rock: Slippery Rock is a borough in Butler County, about 50 miles north of Pittsburgh. It is a small and lively town, with a population of about 3,500. It is also a college town, as it is the home of Slippery Rock University, a public university with a diverse and dynamic student body. Slippery Rock also has a lot of recreation, such as the Slippery Rock Creek, the Slippery Rock Community Park, and the Slippery Rock Golf Club. Building a barndominium in Slippery Rock can give you a fun and vibrant living experience in a town with a lot of energy and activity.
• Stoneboro: Stoneboro is a borough in Mercer County, about 70 miles north of Pittsburgh. It is a small and peaceful town, with a population of about 1,000. It is also a scenic and natural town, with a lot of greenery and wildlife. Stoneboro is located on the shore of Lake Wilhelm, a large and beautiful lake that offers a lot of fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. Stoneboro also has a lot of events, such as the Stoneboro Fair, the Stoneboro Fireworks, and the Stoneboro Ice Festival. Building a barndominium in Stoneboro can give you a serene and relaxing living experience in a town with a lot of beauty and charm.
• Sandy Lake: Sandy Lake is a borough in Mercer County, about 80 miles north of Pittsburgh. It is a small and friendly town, with a population of about 700. It is also a historic and patriotic town, with a lot of history and pride. Sandy Lake was the site of the first American flag flown over Pennsylvania soil, and it hosts an annual Flag Day celebration. Sandy Lake also has a lot of attractions, such as the Sandy Lake Amusement Park, the Sandy Lake Wesleyan Camp, and the Sandy Lake Cemetery. Building a barndominium in Sandy Lake can give you a warm and welcoming living experience in a town with a lot of heritage and honor.
• Greenville: Greenville is a borough in Mercer County, about 80 miles north of Pittsburgh. It is a small and diverse town, with a population of about 5,000. It is also a cultural and artistic town, with a lot of creativity and expression. Greenville is home to Thiel College, a private liberal arts college with a strong arts and humanities program. Greenville also has a lot of attractions, such as the Greenville Symphony Orchestra, the Greenville Art Center, and the Greenville Railroad Park. Building a barndominium in Greenville can give you a colorful and inspiring

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