This typical budget shows the approximate per-square-foot cost of items for which the builder is responsible:

	price per square foot
Excavation	$1.25
Crushed stone	1.90
Footings and foundations	4.10
Concrete floors	2.80
Termite control	.30
Lumber package	25.30
Doors and windows	11.25
Framing labor	17.50
Plumbing	2.80
Electrical	2.50
Heating and cooling	2.75
Septic system	3.40
Site utilities	.90
Insulation 1	1.60
Brick material	6.60
Brick labor	4.25
Special fireplace	3.60
Exterior trim	6.50
Metal roof 1	2.40
Drywall	6.00
Interior trim	5.90
Ceramic tile	2.20
Hardwood flooring	1.90
Fees and dumpster	.30
Cabinetry (kitchen, etc.)	6.25
Plumbing fixtures	3.75
Light fixtures	2.00
Door hardware	.90
Painting	5.00
Carpet	2.80
Misc. details	2.20
Architectural design	4.25
Contract documents (drawings and specifications)	6.25
Construction phase services	2.50
Total budget per square foot	$153.90

The cost of a 2,500 square foot house would simply be calculated by multiplying 2,500 S.F. x $153.90. This amount ($384,750) includes the cost of construction and the architectural fees.

Note: In order to accurately calculate  a total dollar amount all floor areas must be included (i.e. garages, basements, porches) Note that construction costs vary by location and circumstance.  For example: New York and California will be higher