Owner-Builder Cost Savings Calculator
Discover exactly how much you can save by acting as your own general contractor. This calculator factors in typical GC fees, the value of your labor, and gives you a realistic estimate of your potential savings.
Cost Savings Calculator
Calculate how much money you can save by being your own general contractor
Your Project Details
Understanding Your Savings
General Contractor Fees
Most general contractors charge 15-20% of the total construction cost. On a $300,000 home, that's $45,000-$60,000. By managing the project yourself, you keep this money.
What GCs do for this fee: Coordinate subcontractors, manage schedules, handle inspections, order materials, and oversee quality. You'll be doing all of this yourself.
Your Labor Value
The "sweat equity" you put in has real value. Whether you frame walls, install trim, or paint, you're doing work that would otherwise cost $30-75/hour to hire out.
Typical owner-builder hours: Most owner-builders contribute 400-1,000 hours of labor. Even at conservative hourly rates, this adds up to significant savings.
Hidden Savings
Beyond direct savings, owner-builders often save by:
- Getting contractor pricing on materials
- Avoiding markup on subcontractor bids
- Making cost-effective decisions in real-time
- Doing finish work that GCs often subcontract
- Eliminating communication overhead
The Reality Check
While the savings are real, it's important to understand what you're taking on:
Time Investment
Plan for 12-18 months from permit to move-in. You'll spend evenings and weekends managing the project, even if you hire most of the labor.
Learning Curve
You'll need to learn building codes, inspection requirements, and construction sequencing. Budget time for mistakes and re-work.
Stress Factor
Managing a home build is stressful. You're responsible for every decision, every delay, and every dollar spent.
Opportunity Cost
Consider what else you could do with those 400-1,000 hours. The "value" of your labor depends on what you're giving up.
Next Steps
Now that you know your potential savings, it's time to assess if owner-building is right for you.