06/06/2026
1️⃣0️⃣ - the number is TEN.
And here's how you use that number to avoid losing sleep (or your mind) over designing and building your barndo:
✂️ 10% is about the maximum amount you can reduce the size of a floor plan without changing the layout:
👉🏼So- find a plan you love? Or, have a concept that needs a little downsizing to fit your budget? 10% is the top range of what you can "shave off", before you have to start doing dramatic things like changing the location of rooms, or eliminating major amenities. (example: usually it's feasible to make a 3000 sq ft plan fit in 2700 sq ft with minor concessions). If the math doesn't work, you need a new plan.
🗓️ 10 months is the ideal amount of time to give yourself to complete the design/engineering/bid process before you're ready to pull a permit and break ground:
👉🏼This means you aren't rushing decisions, you have time to get builder input, and you've been able to gather multiple, competitive bids using accurate plan details.
💰 10% is the minimum budget contingency you'll want for your build:
👉🏼Most lenders will bake this into your loan estimate (if you're self contracting, a lender may require a larger contingency). A contingency is an extra buffer of money set aside to cover unexpected expenses that pop up during construction. It acts as a financial safety net so that surprise issues, like sudden material price hikes, don't ruin your budget or stall the build.
The "Rule of 10" is simple, but sticking to these guidelines can make a world of difference in how stressful (or not!) your barndominium journey is.
