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The majority of homes that I built over the years have been on basements- and no two have ever been alike. It could be the exact same plan/elevation, but because of the topo the basement wall configuration was different.
Also, concrete prices can fluctuate, but quantity discounts can help especially if you strike a deal with a company to supply all your concrete- walls, slab, drive, patio, etc.
To add to k'ledge's excellent response I will add that if one is using "local cost per sq ft" type estimates it is foolish to try "back out" costs for things like a basement if they are generally "the way things are done" in your area and you think you'll "save" by eliminating a basement you might be unpleasantly surprised that costs for installing electrical systems/ plumbing / HVAC go UP with such a changes...
Perversely if you are in area where basements are uncommon it may be that costs for changing to a full basement (over a crawl or slab) will NOT go down for the mechanical systems...
The differences between a $200/sq ft avg cost to build home and a $300/swift home is likely NOT in the basement but in things like quality of windows, flooring, roofing & exterior...
Thing too is when it comes resale trying to sell a home that is "over built" OR "under built" compared to local standards is often a really bad idea. Folks will expect a big discount ...
maybe you could give me a range then of cost per linear foot. i know there are many variables, but i am just trying to work up a cost estimate ballpark right now looking at plans.
what would be a reasonable range for an "average" build? tks
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