ᐅ Building Project: Who Will I Work With to Build My Tuscan-Style House?

Dear Homebuilders,

I plan to build a house in Tuscan style because I think the practical, simple square design is more cost-effective than adding gables and dormers.

The plot is available, with a building area of 23 x 12 meters (75 x 39 feet).

I want to build on the ground floor one apartment for myself with about 120 sqm (1300 sq ft), including a living room, dining area, kitchen, and guest toilet for the tenant. On the first floor, I want one guest room with a shower for myself and three bedrooms, one bathroom, and one shower room for my tenant. However, everything should be completely separated so that the tenant and I have entirely independent areas. I have also considered possibly building the tenant’s area on the ground floor as an extension or an L-shaped addition, because the first floor does not need to be as large as the ground floor. A basement would be nice, but it depends on the cost.

Does anyone have an idea of what this might cost or suggestions on how I could design it?

I am also considering whether to build with a developer or a general contractor (what is the main difference?), or if an architect might ultimately be more cost-effective.

Any ideas are much appreciated.

Evelyn

Since the costs depend on so many factors, I would suggest simply contacting different companies and getting quotes. It’s not easy to give a general estimate online. Location, basement type, waterproof concrete shell (white tank), soil conditions, construction method, energy standard, heating system, fittings, and so on all play a role.

We are building with a general contractor and have had a good experience so far.

I’m not an expert, but I believe that when you buy from a property developer, you usually purchase both the land and the house, which means you pay higher property transfer tax. In this case, the developer is the builder and sells you the house. A general contractor builds the house for you and takes care of all the trades (if you want them to).

Just get several quotes and then you will have a clearer picture. You can also look up some floor plans online beforehand to get an idea. Based on what you wrote, I would search for semi-detached houses, detached houses with a granny flat, and duplexes.

Thank you very much,

yes, I had already suspected that about the developer.
I have already contacted two general contractors and am waiting for their quotes; I will probably be shocked,
since I am building in Hamburg, the plot of land (855 sqm (9200 sq ft)) is already very expensive.
A construction manager advised me to choose a building company from my local area (North Sea) because they are
better and more affordable than companies from Hamburg.

Thanks again for your message

Evelyn

We have a construction company from eastern Germany. They are also cheaper than the local ones, so even the travel and accommodation costs are worth it.

Manu1976 schrieb:
Since costs depend on so many factors, I would say just approach different companies and ask for quotes. It’s not easy to give a general estimate online. Location, basement type, waterproof concrete shell, soil conditions, construction method, energy standard, heating system, finishing level, and so on.

How can a company provide a reliable quote if the details are so vague? A reputable builder will first ask for all requirements and then create a customized floor plan. Since this involves a lot of effort, some companies may charge a fee for this service.
Alternatively, you can hire an architect to design a suitable floor plan and then approach builders with it to obtain comparable quotes.
The decision for a construction company should not be based solely on the lowest price, which might be cheaper due to being located in eastern Germany, for example, but rather because the company offers the right quality and reliability at an acceptable price. This company may, but does not have to be, located far away.

Hello Evelyn,

buddy2014 schrieb:

Does anyone have an idea what this might cost or any suggestions on how I could design it?

No, not without a design. You will get that through an architect, general contractor, or construction manager.

buddy2014 schrieb:

I’m also considering whether to build with a developer or a general contractor (what is the main difference?), or if an architect might ultimately be more cost-effective?

There are countless posts on this topic in the house building forum; try using the search function and you’ll find plenty to read.

buddy2014 schrieb:

Yes, I figured that about the developer. I have already contacted two general contractors and am waiting for their offers; I’ll probably be shocked since I’m building in Hamburg and the plot (855 m² (9202 ft²)) is already very expensive.

You might be shocked if the offers are truly overpriced. Just wait and see first.

buddy2014 schrieb:

A construction supervisor advised me to choose a building company from my area (North Sea coast) since they are supposed to be better and more affordable than companies from Hamburg.

I wouldn’t claim they are “better”; perhaps more affordable, since the northern region of Germany generally has lower construction costs. However, it depends not only on the company but also on the fine print, especially regarding who covers travel and accommodation expenses.

I’m not in favor of a construction partner located too far away; it can work well, but it can also lead to serious problems. The issue of warranty should also be considered in your decision.

Best regards, Bauexperte