The Real Cost of Building: Why Construction Prices Aren’t What They Seem

[Robert Ellis]

When people think about construction costs, they often focus on just the price per square foot—but that’s only part of the story. The real cost of building a property goes beyond materials and labor.

What Impacts Construction Costs?

✅ Site Prep & Utilities – Clearing land, grading, and bringing in utilities can add unexpected expenses.
✅ Zoning & Permits – Every city has different requirements that can slow projects and increase costs.
✅ Material & Labor Fluctuations – Prices change, and availability can delay timelines.
✅ Design Efficiency – A poorly designed layout can waste space and money, even if the price per square foot seems low.

How to Build Smart

Instead of just looking at the price per square foot, successful developers focus on cost efficiency, value engineering, and maximizing returns. Whether you’re building a triplex or a larger multifamily project, understanding the real costs upfront is key to making profitable decisions.

Want to build smarter? Let’s talk.