Home construction budget step-by-step — cost breakdown infographic

Before asking "how much does a house cost," ask "where does the money go." Here is the budget structure for a 120–140 m² single-story home. ## Percentage budget breakdown - Plot and formalities: 10–15% (skip if you already own the land) - Design and adaptation: 1–2% (£1,000–£3,000) - Closed shell stage: 35–45% — foundations, walls, roof, windows - Installations (electrical, plumbing, HVAC): 12–15% - Finishing (flooring, tiles, painting, kitchen, bathrooms): 20–25% - Utility connections and landscaping (driveway, fencing): 5–8% - Contingency fund: 10–15% — and this is the ONLY item that should not be cut ## 3 rules for a construction budget 1. Do not plan "down to the penny" — building without a reserve is building on an emergency loan. 2. Compare costs at the estimate stage — it is too late for negotiations afterwards. 3. Have a clear definition of "turnkey" — differences in interpretation can cost £10,000. Budgets start with quotes. Post your project on LocalTrader to compare scopes and prices in one place.