Licensed Contractor
Hiring a construction manager costs about $32,000. However, your price may be much lower or higher, depending on your location and project complexity. Letting a licensed contractor handle the whole project will most likely give you the best results and the least amount of stress, but it'll cost the most. In this instance, the homeowner makes key decisions with the contractor before construction begins but then plays no further role until the build is complete. This is like a turn-key purchase.
Owner and Contractor
A cooperative build between a homeowner and licensed contractor costs around $120 to $220 per square foot. An owner-and-contractor build is a solid option that can save as much as 20% of the project price. While the contractor still handles most of the project, including working with subcontractors and the build itself; the homeowner does their own planning, budget management, materials purchasing, scheduling, and so on.
It's usual for the homeowner to also handle the permits, fees, and codes tasks, too. This requires a high degree of knowledge, time, and planning on the homeowner's part. However, if they have the right skill set and enough time, this option is a good way of saving a considerable amount of money.
Owner-Finished
An owner-finished dome home costs $110 to $220 per square foot. In this scenario, a homeowner can expect to save as much as 30% of the project price.
Once the bulk of the actual construction is complete (including the shell and frame), the homeowner gets involved with the project, tackling as much of the finishing work as they can themselves. This could include hanging drywall, installing kitchen cabinetry, finishing walls and ceilings, laying flooring, and more. It's important to note, however, that this option requires solid DIY skills and lots of free time.
Owner-Built
Homeowner dome home builds cost $100 to $180 per square foot. While you can save up to 50% of the project cost if you have all the skills, time, tools, and resources you need, it's incredibly hard, time-consuming work. This option is only suitable for significantly experienced home builders. And even then, you'll need to hire specialist tradespeople, such as plumbers, HVAC techs, and electricians to complete certain aspects of the build.
Dome House Cost Breakdown
Aside from raising the shell and cladding the walls, many other elements go into finishing a dome home.