4 MIN READ · REVIEWED SEPTEMBER 5, 2026
Budget for the whole project.
A home’s advertised price is only the first line of your worksheet.
Build your own quote stack
Start with the written home quote. Ask each provider to identify what is included, what is excluded, when payment is due and how long the quote is valid. Keep unquoted items marked as unknown instead of treating them as free.
Your project budget categories
- Home purchase and selected options
- Land purchase, if applicable
- Delivery and installation
- Site preparation, grading and access
- Foundation or support system
- Water, power, sewer or septic connections
- Permits, inspections and professional services
- Taxes, closing costs and prepaid expenses
- Steps, decks, skirting, parking and landscaping
- A contingency you choose for unresolved costs
Your monthly ownership worksheet
Record the home payment, land or lot payment, taxes, insurance, community fees, utilities and a maintenance allowance. Avoid counting expenses twice if they are already escrowed or included in another charge.
Use the budget builder
Our calculator adds the figures you enter; it does not estimate local prices, approve financing or predict a payment. Use actual quotes whenever possible and download the companion worksheet to compare projects.
Put it to use.
Save your questions in the free buyer worksheet, or discuss your situation with Erik.
Sources & further reading
Educational planning resource. Confirm current requirements with the relevant lender, local authority and qualified professionals. No financing approval or program availability is implied.