The barndominium trend has made its way to Mississippi. Barndos are a great alternative to traditional stick-built homes, offering durability and affordability that’s hard to beat in today’s real estate market. If you’re thinking of building a barndo in Mississippi, it’s important to understand how the process works, the costs and the availability of local builders.
How To Build a Barndominium in Mississippi
Building a barndo in Mississippi is just like building any other home in the state. There are no specific rules or regulations that prohibit barndominiums, but it’s still important to check your local laws just to make sure these structures are permitted.
Generally, rural or agricultural areas of the state are better suited for a barndominium. Keep in mind that the state will still require your building to meet the following codes:
- International Building Code
- International Existing Building Code
- International Energy Conservation Code
- International Fire Code
- International Fuel Gas Code
- International Residential Code
- International Mechanical Code
- International Plumbing Code
Counties do have the option of opting out of these codes, so make sure that you check your local rules before you proceed. It’s always a good idea to ensure that your barndo meets international codes anyway.
With these things in mind, it’s time to start the process of building your barndominium:
Step 1 – Purchase a Plot of Land
If you don’t already have a piece of land, then you’ll need to purchase a plot that’s suitable for building. Remember that raw land isn’t always buildable, so do your due diligence here to avoid problems later on.
When looking at property, consider:
- How large you want your home to be
- How you want to use the property now and in the future
For example, if you hope to build a little homestead, make sure the property gives you enough space for your barndo and to raise animals or plant a garden.
Here are a few things to consider when looking at land:
- Is it buildable? Consider bringing a contractor with you to determine the feasibility of building on the property.
- Get a perc test if you’re going to install a septic. You may even get lucky enough to find a property that already has a septic permit, and that will save you time.
- Is there easy access to the property via a private or public road?
- Is there an HOA? If so, do they permit barndominiums?
The first step is the most important and one that you need to take your time with.
Step 2 – Find a Builder for Your Barndominium in Mississippi
Once you’ve found and acquired the perfect land for your barndo, it’s time to start looking for and comparing builders.
There are several builders in the state that can help make your dream home a reality. When comparing builders, consider:
- How much experience they have
- If they offer custom options
- If they offer turn-key service or the shell of the home
If the builder doesn’t offer turn-key service, you’ll need to find a contractor or handle the building yourself.
Once you’ve found a builder and the barndo that you want, you’ll likely need to put down a deposit to get the project moving. The builder may also want to visit the site to determine feasibility before proceeding, so keep this in mind.
Step 3 – Get Permits and Prepare Your Site
Now that you have a plan for your home, a plot of land and a builder, it’s time to get the ball rolling. The builder or general contractor working on your project will likely handle the permitting process for you.
Permits do come at a fee, and that fee may be more than you expect. Make sure that you understand these costs beforehand.
At this stage, site work will likely begin, which may include:
- Clearing trees and grading the home site
- Digging and excavating
- Drilling a well
- Installing a septic
- Running utilities
- Getting the foundation up
Step 4 – Build and Move In
Now that the site is ready, the building process will begin. Depending on the type of barndo you choose, this process may be quick.
The builder will walk you through the building process before the project begins so that you know what to expect.
Once the barndo is complete, you’re ready to move in and start enjoying your new home.
What Is the Average Cost of Barn Metal Buildings in Mississippi?
One of the biggest advantages of building a barndo is the cost. Compared to a stick-built home, barndos are more affordable.
In Mississippi, the cost of building a barndominium ranges from $150-$200+ per square foot. This cost will cover the structure itself and give you a blank slate to create the interior however you want.
On the other hand, a custom stick-built home will cost somewhere between $200 and $400 per square foot.
Of course, the overall cost of your barndo will depend on several factors, including:
- The cost of site work: Site prep can be costly, especially if the property is heavily treed and requires a lot of grading work.
- The cost of running utilities: Depending on where your property is located, the cost to run utilities can also be quite high. The farther you are from utility connections, the more expensive it will be. Alternatives like solar power can help you complete your build if these costs are too high.
- The cost of your finishing touches: The cost of your barndo will also depend on what type of finishes you want. Do you want high-end fixtures, appliances and countertops? These will come at a much higher price.
What About Financing?
Financing options for your Mississippi barndominium are available, but different builders have relationships with their own lenders. For example, AGRIfinancial Services is one of the main financing companies of Morton Buildings.
Lenders are growing in number, allowing for more people to finance their barndominium in Mississippi.
Lenders often specialize in certain types of construction, such as:
- Agriculture buildings
- Residential buildings
- Commercial buildings
While financing companies in the past charged high interest rates on their loans, lenders are now offering affordable financing with interest rates that are more favorable. If the manufacturer you choose doesn’t have relationships with local lenders, you can call local banks because many are treating barndos as traditional homes.
Our Top Picks For Barndominium Builders In Mississippi
Morton Buildings
Morton Buildings is located in Illinois, but they have offices across the country, including a location in Pearl, Mississippi. The 100% employee-owned company has been in operation for 110 years and is known for its strong, durable metal buildings, including barndominiums and steel pole barns.
Company Info
252 W. Adams St.
Morton, IL 61550-1804
800-447-7436
MortonBuildings.com
LittCo Metals
LittCo Metals is located in West PPoint and is known for offering 40-year panel and 25-year galvalume steel warranties. The company doesn’t offer turn-key jobs, meaning the interior must be finished by a third party, but they do offer free estimates, affordable pricing and a large portfolio of barndominiums in Mississippi that they’ve completed.
Company Info
6593 Hwy 45 Alternate South
West Point, MS 39773
(662) 391-1000
Littcometals.com
R.K. Wallace
R.K. Wallace specializes in metal building construction and completes 200 – 300 projects per year. The company has been operating in Mississippi since 1985, offering affordable metal buildings, standing seam roofing and no dollar limit warranties.
Address
28 New Home Church Rd.
Jayess, MS 39641
(601) 876.3833
rkwallace.com