A Complete Guide for Kansas Homeowners
As housing trends evolve, homeowners in Kansas are considering alternatives to traditional custom homes that offer cost savings, durability, and flexibility. Enter the barndominium—a modern, customizable structure that combines the beauty of rural America with all the functionality of a barn.You might have seen them around rural areas, and they are multiplying fast.
But how do barndominiums compare when faced against traditional homes? From costs and time to build to weather durability, taxes, and resale value, this guide dives deep to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Barndominium?
A barndominium, often referred to as a “barndo,” is a type of residential building that combines the structural design of a barn with the interior comforts of a modern home. Built with steel or wood frames, barndominiums are known for their:
Affordability
Durability
Customization
Signature look
While traditional homes use standard construction methods, barndominiums simplify the process with pre-engineered components. This results in faster builds, lower material costs, and fewer long-term maintenance issues.
Trust us these barndominiums look good inside, they can be made to look just like a custom home. Check out this barndo kitchen, you can’t tell that apart from a regular home kitchen.
Barndominium vs. Traditional Home: Key Comparisons
1. Cost of Construction
Barndominium Costs:
Average Cost: 250,000 .
For a 2,400 sq. ft. barndominium (a 40×60 layout), the total cost averages $160,000–$380,000, depending on finishes.
Traditional Home Costs:
Average Cost: $150–$250 per sq. ft.
Custom designs or high-end materials push costs higher.
For a similar 2,400 sq. ft. traditional home, costs can range from $300,000+.
2. Time to Build
Barndominiums: Construction takes 4–6 months. Pre-fabricated metal frames reduce build time significantly.
Traditional Homes: The process often takes 6–12 months due to labor-intensive wood framing and weather delays.
3. Maintenance Costs
Barndominiums:
Steel frames resist rot, pests, and moisture.
Fewer repairs compared to wood-based structures.
Low-maintenance exterior finishes like metal roofing and siding.
Traditional Homes:
Wood frames require regular upkeep.
Higher risk of termites, rot, and weather-related damage.
Roof replacements and wood repairs can be costly over time.
Winner: Barndominium – Long-term maintenance costs are minimal compared to traditional homes.
4. Yearly Property Tax Costs
Kansas property taxes are based on appraised home value. You can’t run away from taxes and you have to pay taxes on Brandominiums just like you would a regular home, but there are several tax advantages to building a Barndominium that you can learn about like:
Agricultural Exemptions
Cost Allocation
Home Office Deductions
Rural Property Benefits
There are also things you can learn about property value that can help lower your taxes, and lower property value assessments translate into tax savings year after year. The guys at Barndominium Life put together a great article about this if you wish to dive further.
5. Weather Durability in Kansas
Kansas weather can be severe, with heavy storms, high winds, and snow.
Barndominiums: Steel construction offers exceptional durability against wind, snow, and fire. Proper insulation keeps interiors energy-efficient year-round.
Traditional Homes: While sturdy, wood frames are more vulnerable to moisture, termites, and severe wind.
For Barndos metal frames are designed to handle tough Kansas weather with minimal upkeep. Traditional homes in Kansas take on weather with no problems if they were built correctly.
6. Resale Value
Barndominiums:
Unique design may appeal to niche buyers.
Lower resale value in traditional markets due to unconventional style.
Traditional Homes:
Higher resale demand in suburban and urban areas.
Buyers prefer traditional structures for their familiarity and financing options.
Traditional Homes hold stronger resale value, especially in competitive housing markets.
Additional Uses of Barndominiums
Barndominiums aren’t just for homes. They offer versatile solutions for a variety of needs:
Workshops & Hobby Spaces: Ideal for woodworkers, mechanics, or artists needing spacious areas.
Farm Storage: Perfect for storing tractors, tools, and feed on Kansas farmland.
Equestrian Barns: Combine horse stables with living quarters for ultimate convenience.
Garages: Secure space for RVs, boats, and vehicles.
Rental Properties: Barndominiums make cost-effective guest houses or vacation rentals.
Barndominiums provide a flexible solution that traditional homes cannot match.
What to Consider Before Choosing a Barndominium
Financing:
Traditional lenders may hesitate to finance barndominiums due to their unique design. However, specialized lenders can help.
Zoning and Permits:
Check with local authorities in Kansas for zoning regulations. Barndominiums may require special permits based on their agricultural roots.
Long-Term Vision:
While barndominiums save money upfront, consider resale limitations if you plan to move.
Customization:
Barndominiums allow endless flexibility—from open lofts to modern finishes. However, they require detailed planning to optimize the space.
Which Option is Right for You?
Choose a Barndominium if:
You want a cost-effective, low-maintenance home.
You need quick construction and customization.
You value durability against Kansas weather.
Choose a Traditional Home if:
Resale value is a top priority.
You prefer a classic design with traditional financing options.
You plan to live in urban or suburban areas.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Both barndominiums and traditional homes have their strengths and weaknesses. For Kansas homeowners, barndominiums offer unmatched cost savings, durability, and customization, making them ideal for rural and modern lifestyles.
At CAL Construction, we specialize in building custom homes that fit your vision, budget, and needs. Whether you’re building your dream home, a farm structure, or a workshop our expert team ensures every detail is taken care of.
