Construction SF

[Johnhw2]

I posted this question in a topic about construction but had no responses so wanted to try again as a standalone topic.

I see ballpark construction cost figures quoted in various sources including Scott’s book. But so far have not found associated definition of what area is included in the definition of construction square meters or feet. By that I mean, does the definition of sq. meters of construction include garage space, exterior space that has a roof but not four walls as well as an maids space or a terrance area that is landscaped and has a floor and shares one or two walls with the home. Also what if the property has a separate caretaker home is that included in the listed construction area typically? I suspect there is not a consistent common definition of what area is included always, but at least sources quoting ball park construction cost should define the area type those figures apply to. Perhaps I missed it in the book Scott but havent seen it yet. I have found the book very helpful and useful for despite this minor question that appplies to more than just the book of cour. Thanks

[costaricafinca]

It means everything that is covered by a roof!!! Porch area, covered walkways as well.
The prices per sq.mt has gone down due to the drop in both cement and steel. But, every builder will give you his own price, obviously but many are very reluctant to due so with the dollar fluctuating. Plus the areas you are going to build in etc.
In some ways it is better to buy a finished house.

[DavidCMurray]

Any answer to your question, from any source, won’t do you very much good. Whether the structure you propose to build is entirely enclosed by four walls or whether three-quarters of it is open to the elements, what it will cost is what it will cost. Only an agreed-upon contract with a builder satisfactory to you will determine the actual cost. (And then there will be the overruns, of course.)

It doesn’t matter whether you “count” the garage, the roof overhang, the walkway up to the front door or whatever, what it will cost you is the builder’s cost plus his profit. Figure in everything that you want included. Get a price. If it’s acceptable, take it. If not, shop around or change your requirements.

Costaricafinca, my personal belief is that you’re better off to design a house based upon your own carefully considered needs than to buy somebody else’s idea of what they’d like to sell you. That’s one man’s opinion.

[costaricafinca]

DavidCMurray, I think a lot depends on what is available where you want to live.
In built up areas, you may have lots of excellent choices and in a rural one, nothing much will likely be available, but when I see what is out there, very often fully furnished, the price may be hard to beat, with as you said, the over runs and the unexpected costs that arise.
Some people have a strict ‘budget’ and they don’t like/cannot afford surprises….
‘What do you mean I can’t get a phone for 3 years…?

[Johnhw2]

Thanks for the feedback to each of you.

Let me clarify my plans, I am not planning to build a home in CR. I am exploring/evaluating existing homes from a variety of sources – listings, information from owners etc. I have seen descriptions of existing homes with very different sf of construction on different sites. I suspect there isnt a general rule but on the chance there is one, inquired what it is.

I am clear on what the definition is from the responsee for the main house on the property.

I suspect the differences I am seeing is where a caretaker or guard enclosed facility exists on the property. Some include the area from those and some do not? I suspect there is not a common practice regarding say a caretaker or other separate structure on the property when a seller is describing an existing property to a prospective buyer.

Thanks in advance for your advice on this aspect.

[Andrew]

They will typically refer to the number of meters of construction and it will be up to you to verify exactly what that includes as they ‘may’ include the caretaker’s home as well as the main home in that number… It’s your responsibility to confirm what building measures what?

It is also sensible to have someone measure the land too as that can also be an area of ‘complicacíones.’

Scott Oliver – Founder
WeLoveCostaRica.com

[Johnhw2]

Thanks will do when in country. Just screening properites for viewing at this stage based upon info I cant confirm til there.

[Bandera]

Scott
Did Setena ever change the max sq meter of a house to 500 sq meters?
Stan

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