When comparing home builders, many people focus on the “cost per square foot” — but this number can be misleading.
Here’s why:
Different builders calculate square footage in different ways:
- Some include everything under the roof.
- Others only count the living area.
- Some add the cost of the land.
- Others leave out structural elements like the brick ledge.
Even if every builder used identical materials, techniques, and allowances (which they don’t), you’d still end up with different price-per-square-foot figures.
But the reality is, no two builders are exactly the same.
- Some prioritize high-quality materials, energy-efficient construction, or more generous allowances for things like fixtures and flooring.
- Others cut costs with lower-end options, like vinyl siding on the rear of the home.
- A builder might offer a lower allowance but have stronger supplier relationships—meaning better finishes for less money.
So how do you really compare builders?
Meet them. Not just a phone call or an email—sit down in person. Ask:
- Can they design a custom home tailored to your needs?
- Do they provide detailed drawings and allow for changes?
- Can they give you an itemized estimate showing exactly what’s included?
At Mike’s Quality Homes, we offer all of that—and more. We’ll design a custom home that fits your vision and your budget. And if you choose us to build it, the design is completely free.
Let’s build your home the right way—together.