{"id":301,"date":"2026-06-26T13:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-26T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/?p=301"},"modified":"2026-06-22T17:14:52","modified_gmt":"2026-06-22T17:14:52","slug":"most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house\/","title":{"rendered":"What&#8217;s the Most Expensive Part of Building a House?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"301\" class=\"elementor elementor-301\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-79903fe elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"79903fe\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-d931012\" data-id=\"d931012\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fdf20e9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"fdf20e9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"536\" src=\"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Whats-the-most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house-1024x536.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-305\" alt=\"What\u2019s the most expensive part of building a house\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Whats-the-most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house-1024x536.png 1024w, https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Whats-the-most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house-300x157.png 300w, https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Whats-the-most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house-768x402.png 768w, https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Whats-the-most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house-1536x803.png 1536w, https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Whats-the-most-expensive-part-of-building-a-house.png 1734w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-95d03f9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"95d03f9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re getting ready to build a custom home in Albuquerque or anywhere in New Mexico, one question will come up before every other: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">where does all the money actually go?<\/span><\/i><\/p><p><b>The short answer<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: the most expensive part of building a house is typically interior finishes, which can account for roughly 20\u201325% of total construction costs. But framing, major systems like plumbing and HVAC, and the foundation aren&#8217;t far behind, and in the Southwest, soil conditions and site work can shift that picture significantly.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>Why Understanding Home Building Costs Actually Matters<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A lot of people go into a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/home-builds.php\"><b>custom home build<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> knowing their total budget, but not knowing <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that budget gets divided. That gap causes problems if you upgrade the kitchen without realizing it crowds out something structural, or you save on windows and end up with an HVAC system that&#8217;s fighting the sun all summer.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you understand what each part of the build actually costs, you make better trades. You spend more where it matters most to you and less where it doesn&#8217;t, which is the whole point of building custom in the first place.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>The Major Cost Categories, Ranked<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&#8217;s how home construction costs typically break down, from highest impact to lowest, along with what drives costs up or down in each category.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>1. Interior Finishes: Where Most of the Budget Goes<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interior finishes cover everything that makes a house feel like a <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: flooring, cabinets, countertops, interior doors, trim, paint, hardware, and tile work. Together, they routinely make up the largest single slice of construction costs, often around 20\u201325% of the total.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This surprises a lot of people. The assumption is that concrete and lumber cost more than countertops. But when you multiply finish work across every room, every wall, and every surface in a 1,800\u20132,500 sq ft home, it adds up fast.<\/span><\/p><p><b>What drives interior finish costs up:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High-end tile selections across multiple bathrooms<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Custom cabinetry versus semi-custom or stock<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hardwood flooring throughout versus carpet in bedrooms<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stone or quartz countertops versus laminate<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Last-minute change orders during construction<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Where you have the most control:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Interior finishes are almost entirely a matter of choice. You decide the countertop, the flooring, and the hardware. A good general contractor will help you understand exactly what each upgrade costs <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">before<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> it&#8217;s installed, not after.<\/span><\/p><p><b>In short:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Interior finishes are the biggest line item in most new home budgets, and they&#8217;re also the category where you have the most personal control. Decide your priorities early and stick to them.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>2. Framing: The Skeleton of Your Home<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Framing typically represents 15\u201318% of construction costs, making it the second or third most expensive phase, depending on the build. This is the structural skeleton, floor systems, walls, roof trusses, sheathing, and the labor to put it all together correctly.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lumber prices have been volatile over the past few years, which means framing bids can shift between the time you get a quote and the time work actually starts. A builder who orders materials early or has supplier relationships can protect you from mid-project price swings.<\/span><\/p><p><b>What affects framing costs:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Size and square footage of the home<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Number of stories (two-story costs more per square foot than single-story)<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Roof complexity, simple gable roofs cost less than multi-plane or hip roofs.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lumber and material prices at the time of order<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local labor costs<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>What you can do:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A simpler floor plan with fewer bump-outs and a cleaner roofline will cost less to frame. If the exterior design is less important to you than interior quality, this is a reasonable place to simplify.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>3. Major Systems: Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These three systems, sometimes grouped as MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), typically account for 15\u201320% of construction costs combined. They&#8217;re invisible once the walls go up, which is exactly why they&#8217;re easy to underestimate.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Plumbing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> depends heavily on home size, number of bathrooms, and how efficiently the layout routes pipes. A well-designed floor plan can reduce plumbing runs. A scattered layout with bathrooms on opposite ends of the house drives costs up.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Electrical<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is fairly consistent across homes of similar size, though smart-home features, EV charging, and upgraded panels add cost.<\/span><\/p><p><b>HVAC in New Mexico<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> deserves special attention. The desert climate means your system has to handle hot summers and cold winters, often with extreme temperature swings between day and night. Properly sized HVAC with good duct design isn&#8217;t a place to cut corners. Undersized or poorly designed systems lead to discomfort and higher utility bills for years.<\/span><\/p><p><b>In short,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Good MEP work is expensive but hard to redo after walls are closed. Pay for it to be done right, and don&#8217;t let budget pressure push you toward an undersized or poorly routed system.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>4. The Foundation: More Variable Than You&#8217;d Think<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The foundation often gets named as the single most expensive part of building a house, and while it&#8217;s certainly a major cost, it typically runs 10\u201315% of construction costs, not the top spot nationally. That said, in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico, site conditions can push foundation costs higher than in other parts of the country.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Why New Mexico soil matters:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caliche, the hard calcium carbonate layer common in desert soils across the Southwest, can require additional excavation or specialized drilling, which adds labor and equipment costs.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expansive clay soils in certain Albuquerque neighborhoods shift with moisture changes, which demands deeper footings or engineered foundation solutions.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Steep or uneven lots in the foothills add site preparation costs.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Common foundation types and their relative costs:<\/b><\/p><table><thead><tr><th><p><b>Foundation Type<\/b><\/p><\/th><th><p><b>Relative Cost<\/b><\/p><\/th><th><p><b>Common Use Case<\/b><\/p><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slab-on-grade<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lowest<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flat lots, warm\/dry climates<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crawl space<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moderate<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sloped lots, better access<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Full basement<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Highest<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cooler climates, maximum space<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engineered\/pier<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Problematic soils, hillsides<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the Albuquerque area, slab foundations are common because of the dry climate and flat-to-moderate terrain, but your specific lot may require something different. A soil report before you build is money well spent.<\/span><\/p><p><b>In short,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Foundation costs depend heavily on your lot. Know what you&#8217;re building on before finalizing a budget; surprises underground are some of the most expensive in construction.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>5. Exterior Finishes and Roofing<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exterior finishes, such as siding, stucco, stone, roofing, windows, and doors, typically run 10\u201315% of construction costs. In New Mexico, stucco is the dominant exterior finish for good reason: it performs well in the desert climate, resists moisture and heat, and fits the regional aesthetic naturally.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Roofing considerations for Albuquerque:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flat or low-slope roofs (common in Southwestern architecture) cost less to frame but require high-quality waterproofing<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metal roofing lasts longer and performs well in extreme temperature swings, but carries a higher upfront cost<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Asphalt shingles are the most affordable option and work well in New Mexico&#8217;s relatively mild precipitation<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Windows<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are a meaningful cost in desert climates because of sun exposure. Low-E glass coatings and double-pane windows cost more upfront but can reduce cooling loads significantly over time.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>6. Site Work: The Costs Before Any Walls Go Up<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Site work covers everything that has to happen before construction starts: surveying, permits, grading, utility hookups, drainage, and any demolition if you&#8217;re replacing an existing structure. It usually runs 7\u201310% of the total build cost, but it&#8217;s highly variable.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A flat, cleared lot with utilities already at the street is the cheapest scenario. A sloped lot, a lot without sewer access, or a lot with large trees to remove or difficult caliche to break through can add high cost before a single wall goes up.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is one reason why experienced local contractors matter so much; they know what Albuquerque lots typically need, where utility connections run, and what to expect from the soil before a shovel hits the ground.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>7. The Lot Itself<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Land is a separate cost from construction, but it sets the baseline for everything else. In the Albuquerque metro, lot prices vary widely depending on location, size, utilities, and terrain. A more affordable lot in a developing area can mean higher site work costs. A premium lot with utilities in place may cost more upfront, but save money during construction.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The decision of which lot to buy has long-term effects on your total project cost, your home&#8217;s resale value, and how much you&#8217;ll spend on the build itself. It&#8217;s worth spending time on this choice before committing.<\/span><\/p><blockquote><p><b>You can also read:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/blog\/how-much-does-it-cost-to-renovate-a-house\/\">How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a House?<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/blockquote><h2><b>What Actually Controls Your Budget: A Contractor&#8217;s Honest View<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After reviewing where the money goes, the pattern becomes clear: <\/span><b>most cost overruns don&#8217;t come from one expensive category; they come from decisions that change after construction begins.<\/b><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Change orders are one of the most consistent budget-killers in residential construction. Changing flooring selections after tile has been ordered, adding a bathroom mid-build, or upgrading an appliance package after cabinets are already cut, each of these ripples through multiple trades and timelines.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The homeowners who stay on budget tend to share a few things in common:<\/span><\/p><ol><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They finalize floor plans and finish selections <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">before<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> breaking ground, not during construction.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They work with a contractor who gives clear, detailed estimates upfront rather than vague ranges.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They build in a contingency, typically 10\u201315%\u00a0 for genuine surprises rather than wishful thinking.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They resist the urge to upgrade everything. They pick two or three areas that matter most and invest there.<\/span><\/li><\/ol><h2><b>Cost-Saving Strategies That Don&#8217;t Sacrifice Quality<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There&#8217;s a difference between cutting costs and cutting corners. Here are ways experienced builders help homeowners save money without compromising the structure or longevity of the home:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Simplify the floor plan.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Open layouts with rectangular footprints are cheaper to frame, insulate, and finish than complex shapes with many angles.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Standardize where it doesn&#8217;t matter to you.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If you don&#8217;t care about the laundry room tile, use standard options. Save the upgrade budget for the kitchen or primary bath.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Choose materials suited to the local climate.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In Albuquerque, materials that perform in a desert environment last longer and require less maintenance than products designed for humid climates.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Get detailed bids, not ballpark estimates.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A vague estimate hides assumptions that turn into change orders. Ask for line-item pricing before signing.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Don&#8217;t skip the soil report.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A few hundred dollars to understand your soil conditions can prevent foundation surprises that cost tens of thousands.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h2><b>Building in Albuquerque: What&#8217;s Different Here<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National cost guides are useful for context, but New Mexico has its own construction landscape worth understanding.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Labor market:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Albuquerque has a strong base of skilled residential tradespeople, but demand for quality contractors runs high. Getting on a reputable builder&#8217;s schedule often requires planning months.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Climate:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The high desert climate means thermal mass and insulation matter more than in temperate regions. Well-built walls and roofs reduce HVAC load, which matters because cooling costs in summer are real.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Regional style:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Pueblo, Spanish Colonial, and contemporary Southwestern architecture shapes what local buyers value. Stucco exteriors, covered portals, and indoor-outdoor living spaces are practical and market-appropriate here, not just aesthetic choices.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Permits and codes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Albuquerque and Bernalillo County follow New Mexico building codes with local amendments. A contractor who builds regularly in the area knows the inspection process and typical permit timelines, which affect your construction schedule.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At Gami&#8217;s Constructors LLC, the team has been working in Albuquerque for over 30 years. That history means they know what the soil looks like before a shovel goes in the ground, which subcontractors are reliable, and how to price a project accurately from the start.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>Custom Build vs. Remodel: A Quick Comparison<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not everyone asking this question is building from the ground up. Some homeowners are trying to decide between a new custom build and a major remodel of their existing home. Here&#8217;s a simple side-by-side:<\/span><\/p><table><thead><tr><th><p><b>Factor<\/b><\/p><\/th><th><p><b>Custom New Build<\/b><\/p><\/th><th><p><b>Major Remodel<\/b><\/p><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost predictability<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Higher (if planned well)<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lower (hidden conditions)<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Design control<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maximum<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limited by the existing structure<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Timeline<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Longer<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shorter<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Site disruption<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New location<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Live-in challenges<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Permitting<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Standard new construction<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varies widely<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specific vision, new lot<\/span><\/p><\/td><td><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Good existing location<\/span><\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remodels carry their own cost surprises. What&#8217;s inside existing walls isn&#8217;t always what you expect. A bathroom remodel, or kitchen renovation, is rarely as straightforward as it looks, especially in older Albuquerque homes. A good general contractor will assess the existing structure honestly before giving you a quote.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b51e9bf elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"b51e9bf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cfdac53 elementor-widget elementor-widget-elementskit-accordion\" data-id=\"cfdac53\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"elementskit-accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ekit-wid-con\" >\n        <div class=\"elementskit-accordion accoedion-primary\" id=\"accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n            \n                <div class=\"elementskit-card active\">\n                    <div class=\"elementskit-card-header\" id=\"primaryHeading-0-cfdac53\">\n                        <a href=\"#collapse-94c5c2d6a6197d878a48\" class=\"ekit-accordion--toggler elementskit-btn-link collapsed\" data-ekit-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#Collapse-94c5c2d6a6197d878a48\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"Collapse-94c5c2d6a6197d878a48\">\n                            \n                            <span class=\"ekit-accordion-title\">What is the single most expensive part of building a house? <\/span>\n\n                            \n                                <div class=\"ekit_accordion_icon_group\">\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_normal_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Normal Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-down-arrow1\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_active_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Active Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-up-arrow\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n\n                            \n                                                    <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <div id=\"Collapse-94c5c2d6a6197d878a48\" class=\" show collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"primaryHeading-0-cfdac53\" data-parent=\"#accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n                        <div class=\"elementskit-card-body ekit-accordion--content\">\n                            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Interior finishes, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, trim, and tile typically account for the largest share of new home construction costs, often 20\u201325% of the total budget. Framing and major systems (plumbing, HVAC, electrical) follow closely.<\/span><\/p>                        <\/div>\n\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div><!-- .elementskit-card END -->\n\n                \n                <div class=\"elementskit-card \">\n                    <div class=\"elementskit-card-header\" id=\"primaryHeading-1-cfdac53\">\n                        <a href=\"#collapse-2645fac6a6197d878a48\" class=\"ekit-accordion--toggler elementskit-btn-link collapsed\" data-ekit-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#Collapse-2645fac6a6197d878a48\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"Collapse-2645fac6a6197d878a48\">\n                            \n                            <span class=\"ekit-accordion-title\">Is the foundation or framing more expensive? <\/span>\n\n                            \n                                <div class=\"ekit_accordion_icon_group\">\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_normal_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Normal Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-down-arrow1\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_active_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Active Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-up-arrow\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n\n                            \n                                                    <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <div id=\"Collapse-2645fac6a6197d878a48\" class=\" collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"primaryHeading-1-cfdac53\" data-parent=\"#accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n                        <div class=\"elementskit-card-body ekit-accordion--content\">\n                            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In most builds, framing costs more than the foundation. Framing typically runs 15\u201318% of construction costs, while the foundation runs 10\u201315%. However, in areas with difficult soil conditions, including parts of Albuquerque with caliche or expansive clay, foundation costs can climb significantly.<\/span><\/p>                        <\/div>\n\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div><!-- .elementskit-card END -->\n\n                \n                <div class=\"elementskit-card \">\n                    <div class=\"elementskit-card-header\" id=\"primaryHeading-2-cfdac53\">\n                        <a href=\"#collapse-6a0ea636a6197d878a48\" class=\"ekit-accordion--toggler elementskit-btn-link collapsed\" data-ekit-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#Collapse-6a0ea636a6197d878a48\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"Collapse-6a0ea636a6197d878a48\">\n                            \n                            <span class=\"ekit-accordion-title\">How much does it cost to build a custom home in Albuquerque? <\/span>\n\n                            \n                                <div class=\"ekit_accordion_icon_group\">\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_normal_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Normal Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-down-arrow1\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_active_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Active Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-up-arrow\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n\n                            \n                                                    <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <div id=\"Collapse-6a0ea636a6197d878a48\" class=\" collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"primaryHeading-2-cfdac53\" data-parent=\"#accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n                        <div class=\"elementskit-card-body ekit-accordion--content\">\n                            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Custom home costs vary widely depending on size, finishes, lot conditions, and current material prices. Albuquerque generally falls within national ranges for residential construction, but labor costs, soil conditions, and regional materials can push projects above or below national averages. The best way to get a realistic number is through a detailed estimate from a local contractor who can assess your specific lot and plans.<\/span><\/p>                        <\/div>\n\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div><!-- .elementskit-card END -->\n\n                \n                <div class=\"elementskit-card \">\n                    <div class=\"elementskit-card-header\" id=\"primaryHeading-3-cfdac53\">\n                        <a href=\"#collapse-79da6256a6197d878a48\" class=\"ekit-accordion--toggler elementskit-btn-link collapsed\" data-ekit-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#Collapse-79da6256a6197d878a48\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"Collapse-79da6256a6197d878a48\">\n                            \n                            <span class=\"ekit-accordion-title\">What part of the build can I most easily save money on? <\/span>\n\n                            \n                                <div class=\"ekit_accordion_icon_group\">\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_normal_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Normal Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-down-arrow1\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_active_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Active Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-up-arrow\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n\n                            \n                                                    <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <div id=\"Collapse-79da6256a6197d878a48\" class=\" collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"primaryHeading-3-cfdac53\" data-parent=\"#accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n                        <div class=\"elementskit-card-body ekit-accordion--content\">\n                            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Interior finishes offer the most flexibility because they are almost entirely driven by your personal choices. Choosing standard-grade cabinets instead of custom or carpet in secondary bedrooms instead of hardwood is a way to reduce costs without affecting structural quality.<\/span><\/p>                        <\/div>\n\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div><!-- .elementskit-card END -->\n\n                \n                <div class=\"elementskit-card \">\n                    <div class=\"elementskit-card-header\" id=\"primaryHeading-4-cfdac53\">\n                        <a href=\"#collapse-e5dcb2d6a6197d878a48\" class=\"ekit-accordion--toggler elementskit-btn-link collapsed\" data-ekit-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#Collapse-e5dcb2d6a6197d878a48\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"Collapse-e5dcb2d6a6197d878a48\">\n                            \n                            <span class=\"ekit-accordion-title\">What causes the most budget overruns in residential construction? <\/span>\n\n                            \n                                <div class=\"ekit_accordion_icon_group\">\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_normal_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Normal Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-down-arrow1\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_active_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Active Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-up-arrow\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n\n                            \n                                                    <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <div id=\"Collapse-e5dcb2d6a6197d878a48\" class=\" collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"primaryHeading-4-cfdac53\" data-parent=\"#accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n                        <div class=\"elementskit-card-body ekit-accordion--content\">\n                            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Change orders, decisions made during construction that alter what was originally planned, are among the most consistent causes of budget overruns. Finalizing your floor plan and finish selections before breaking ground is the most effective way to stay on budget.<\/span><\/p>                        <\/div>\n\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div><!-- .elementskit-card END -->\n\n                \n                <div class=\"elementskit-card \">\n                    <div class=\"elementskit-card-header\" id=\"primaryHeading-5-cfdac53\">\n                        <a href=\"#collapse-05fd4576a6197d878a48\" class=\"ekit-accordion--toggler elementskit-btn-link collapsed\" data-ekit-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#Collapse-05fd4576a6197d878a48\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"Collapse-05fd4576a6197d878a48\">\n                            \n                            <span class=\"ekit-accordion-title\">How long does it take to build a custom home? <\/span>\n\n                            \n                                <div class=\"ekit_accordion_icon_group\">\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_normal_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Normal Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-down-arrow1\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_active_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Active Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-up-arrow\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n\n                            \n                                                    <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <div id=\"Collapse-05fd4576a6197d878a48\" class=\" collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"primaryHeading-5-cfdac53\" data-parent=\"#accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n                        <div class=\"elementskit-card-body ekit-accordion--content\">\n                            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A typical custom home takes 8\u201314 months from permit approval to move-in, depending on size, complexity, weather, and contractor schedule. Starting the planning and permitting process early helps keep the project on track.<\/span><\/p><p>Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast<\/p>                        <\/div>\n\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div><!-- .elementskit-card END -->\n\n                \n                <div class=\"elementskit-card \">\n                    <div class=\"elementskit-card-header\" id=\"primaryHeading-6-cfdac53\">\n                        <a href=\"#collapse-233741a6a6197d878a48\" class=\"ekit-accordion--toggler elementskit-btn-link collapsed\" data-ekit-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#Collapse-233741a6a6197d878a48\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"Collapse-233741a6a6197d878a48\">\n                            \n                            <span class=\"ekit-accordion-title\">Do I need a soil test before building in Albuquerque? <\/span>\n\n                            \n                                <div class=\"ekit_accordion_icon_group\">\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_normal_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Normal Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-down-arrow1\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <div class=\"ekit_accordion_active_icon\">\n                                        <!-- Active Icon -->\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i class=\"icon icon-up-arrow\"><\/i>                                    <\/div>\n                                <\/div>\n\n                            \n                                                    <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <div id=\"Collapse-233741a6a6197d878a48\" class=\" collapse\" aria-labelledby=\"primaryHeading-6-cfdac53\" data-parent=\"#accordion-6a6197d878a48\">\n\n                        <div class=\"elementskit-card-body ekit-accordion--content\">\n                            <p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is strongly advisable. New Mexico's desert soils, including caliche layers and clay-heavy areas in parts of Albuquerque, can behave unexpectedly under a foundation. A geotechnical or soil report, typically costing a few hundred dollars, can reveal conditions that affect foundation design and overall construction cost before any money is spent on construction.<\/span><\/p>                        <\/div>\n\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div><!-- .elementskit-card END -->\n\n                                        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-60a5bc1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"60a5bc1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>Know Before You Build<\/strong><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding <\/span><b>the most expensive parts of building a house<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> isn&#8217;t just about curiosity; it&#8217;s about making better decisions with the money you have. Interior finishes, framing, mechanical systems, and the foundation will take up the majority of your budget. What you choose in each category, and whether you change those choices mid-build, determines whether the project lands on budget or blows past it.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re planning a custom home, addition, or major remodel in Albuquerque, working with a contractor who prices work transparently and communicates clearly from the start makes all the difference.<\/span><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/contact.php\"><b>Gami&#8217;s Constructors LLC<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a family-owned residential construction and remodeling company founded by a father-and-son team with more than 30 years of experience in the Albuquerque area. They handle custom home builds, home additions, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, and full-service general contracting, and they give clients real numbers, not guesswork.<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><p><b>Ready to start planning your project?<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/gamisconstructors.net\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Call Gami&#8217;s Constructors LLC or request a free quote<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to talk through your vision, your lot, and your budget with a team that knows Albuquerque construction inside and out.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you&#8217;re getting ready to build a custom home in Albuquerque or anywhere in New Mexico, one question will come [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":305,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"pagelayer_contact_templates":[],"_pagelayer_content":"","site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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