Truckee builders/contractors, price per square foot?

[Elisse Glasco]

Hey! Looking for a builder that can build in the area for a reasonable amount. I am being told by architects and some high-end builders the cost per square foot is 1500-2000. I just can't understand why, when new builds in Martis Camp, some are listed around 4 million, for 4000 square feet. That means the builders would've lost money, so I feel like this number may be inflated. Can someone help me get some insight? I am wanting to go one of two ways in the area, build in the high end communities, hold and sell after two years, or build an airbnb in the unincorporated area (because of the annoying STR permitting requirements) and then sell that custom build after a couple years of operating, but only if the equity after the build makes sense. I am just flabbergasted by the build costs, when just down the hill just outside Truckee it's more a reasonable cost of 400 to 500 square feet. I know there are special exceptions in that area that require heated water pumps and heated roofs, but does that really quadruple the cost? Any feedback appreciated :) We may even have our local builders travel up there, if that's possible. This is our fist time building from the ground up so any and all tips, feedback, welcome :)