FAQs
How much does a custom home cost to build in Bozeman?
The desire to find the answer to this question is understandable, but it is almost impossible to say. A home’s cost will depend on many factors. The price can range anywhere from $180 to $400 per square foot, and even more.
If you’d like to play around with our construction calculator, you can download it here.
How to find a good contractor in Bozeman?.
They say word-of-mouth is the king of marketing. For contractors this is certainly true, and for good reason. Ask your friends, ask your neighbors, swing by a construction site and look at it, and ask for the builder’s phone number.
The three biggest risks you take when hiring a contractor are the price, the experience, and the quality. Call references and ask about these three things, and don’t be afraid to shop around. Take your time.
Can I build my own home?
The short answer is: It depends.
If you want to act as your own general contractor, certainly - it will require good communication, lots of homework, and a professional attitude. You can use our home building master plan. [Coming soon!]
If you want to do much of the work yourself, only you can answer that question - but it will be both a demanding and rewarding adventure!
How much does it cost to replace siding?
This depends on many factors, but the typical range for an average home in Bozeman the price can be anywhere from $10 to $20 per square foot and higher, including labor and materials.
The price will be driven by your home’s complexity, height, and accessibility, as well as the type(s) of siding you choose.
Is my contractor ripping me off?
If you’re asking this, you are likely in a frustrating scenario. Your best course of action starts with clear, honest communication with your contractor about your frustrations. If you or your contractor cannot communicate in good faith, look into avenues for mediation, but keep your contractor in the loop!
Going to a lawyer is an option, but to a lot of contractors this can feel like a declaration of war, and war is expensive for everyone. Try to set boundaries for mature communication, and don’t be afraid to ask hard questions like: why does it cost this much? Or can you explain this expense? Avoid being combative - be mature.
Does construction go through the winter in Montana?
The short answer is: Yes, construction keeps going through the winter, including exterior work like concrete, framing, roofing, and siding.
Why is construction so expensive?
There are many costs associated with even a small construction project. Some of the biggest drivers include:
Material costs
Management time and overhead
A real company is likely to have significant overhead, as opposed to a sole proprietor
Managing a project can take substantial time and resources, especially if the schedule, budget, and scope are large or subject to change
Labor costs are high in Bozeman. Even an unskilled laborer is expensive - look at what they can earn at Taco Bell.
Skilled labor costs are very high in the Gallatin valley. You are hiring mature adults who likely have families. There might be 5 people working in your home all day - for their day job! Think about what you earn in a week, and remember these skilled workers are likely years or decades into a highly demanding career. They are expensive.
Risks associated. If things go wrong in construction it can get expensive, fast. This also means insurance premiums and worker’s comp are expensive.
Profit. Nobody starts a construction company intending to run at a loss. You hope your contractors and subcontractors are pricing their work competitively, but they are also in business to make a profit, just like your grocer, your banker, and the company you work for.
Can I get a job with Frontier Home Builders?
If you are interested in working with us, feel free to inquire via email, or call us. If you want to work in construction in and around Bozeman, have a great work ethic and a good attitude toward hard work, team work, and growth, we may be a good fit!
I need a quote for my siding, roof, remodel, addition, or other construction project
Please, reach out and tell us about your project!