Building a custom home is one of the most exciting—and significant—investments you’ll ever make. At Mōdish Custom Homes, we know the financial side of building can feel like a mystery to many homeowners. That’s why we believe in complete transparency.
Approximately 50% to 85% of custom home projects go over budget. In this post, we’re pulling back the curtain to show you exactly where your money goes when building a custom home in Western New York. Understanding the budget isn’t just about numbers—it’s about confidence in the process, and value in every decision.
1. Site Costs (10–15%)
Before we even start building, site-related expenses can take up a sizable portion of your budget. These include:
Land acquisition
Permits and impact fees
Site preparation (clearing, grading, excavation)
Utility connections (septic, sewer, water, electric, gas)
Driveways and access roads
Every site is different—building in a rural area near Buffalo might require well drilling and septic installation, while suburban sites may have higher permit costs.
2. Foundation & Framing (15–20%)
This is the structural core of your home:
Excavation and footings
Concrete foundation (slab, crawl space, or full basement)
Framing materials and labor
Structural beams (especially in post and beam homes)
With Mōdish’s focus on modern post and beam design, this stage sets the architectural tone—and we make sure it’s engineered for beauty and durability. That’s why we’re the only builder in the industry offering a Lifetime Structural Warranty.
3. Exterior Envelope (10–15%)
This includes everything that makes your home weather-tight and visually striking:
Roofing
Windows and doors
Siding (wood, fiber cement, metal, etc.)
Insulation and waterproofing
High-performance insulation and well-sealed envelopes are crucial in our Western New York climate. Yes, winters can be tough—your home should be tougher.
4. Interior Finishes (25–30%)
This is where your personality and lifestyle shine. Interior finishes are typically the largest category because they include:
Drywall and painting
Flooring (hardwood, tile, carpet, etc.)
Cabinetry and countertops
Trim, doors, staircases
Lighting and fixtures
Custom choices can dramatically influence this portion. That dream kitchen or spa bathroom? This is where those costs live.
5. Mechanical Systems (10–15%)
These systems keep your home running smoothly:
Plumbing
HVAC (heating, cooling, and ventilation)
Electrical wiring
Smart home tech and security
Western New York’s winters demand efficient, reliable systems. We work with top-tier subcontractors to ensure your systems are not just code-compliant—but high performing.
6. Design, Engineering & Project Management (5–10%)
This includes the expertise that makes your build possible:
Architectural design and drafting
Engineering (structural, civil, mechanical)
Permitting and inspections
Construction management and administration
At Mōdish, we handle this in-house or collaborate with trusted partners, ensuring your project is beautifully designed, well-coordinated, and built on schedule.
7. Contingency & Custom Features (5–10%)
Even with the most meticulous planning, custom builds come with surprises. We always recommend clients reserve 5–10% of their budget for:
Change orders
Upgrades
Unforeseen site conditions
It’s your safety net—and smart planning makes it much less likely you’ll need it.
Final Thoughts: It’s Your Budget, But We Build It Together
When you partner with Mōdish Custom Homes, you’re not just hiring a builder—you’re gaining a trusted guide through one of life’s biggest investments. We work with you from day one to create a clear, customized budget that aligns with your goals, site, and style.
Transparency is one of our core values. When you know where your money is going, you’re empowered to make informed decisions—and enjoy the process.
Thinking about building in Buffalo or Western New York?
Let’s talk about your vision and how we can bring it to life, on budget and on point. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
