Building a Pole Barn Home in Nebraska – The Complete Guide

Whether you’re a native Cornhusker or a state newcomer, building a pole barn home in Nebraska is an increasingly attractive prospect. Fully customizable and built using inexpensive materials, pole barn homes offer significant cost savings without compromising on your preferred layout or fixtures.

If that sounds good, read on to discover even more benefits of owning a pole barn home in Nebraska. We’ll also provide a cost comparison and touch on some reputable builders and creditors to help bring your dream home to fruition. 

What is a pole barn home and what are its advantages?

Much like barndominiums, pole barn homes are built around a self-supporting post frame system. As a result, you can enjoy large, open-plan living spaces without the need for bulky weight-bearing walls. But unlike barndos, pole barns are made from timber rather than steel. This makes them cheaper and quicker to construct and insulate. Yet, their closely spaced columns and trusses ensure the frames created are sturdy and will stand the test of time.

Another key difference is that the posts are anchored into the ground to secure the structure. This means a pole barn home in Nebraska can be built without having to dig out the ground first, saving you both time and money. Meanwhile, barndominiums must be held in place with a concrete foundation that has the potential to crack in freezing winter temperatures.

Why build a pole barn home in Nebraska?

If you’re thinking of building a pole barn home in Nebraska but you’re not sure whether it’s the right state for you, we’ve got you covered. Some of the perks of living in this sparsely populated midwestern state include low crime rates, good employment prospects, and an education sector that ranks in the top 10 in the US. Moreover, day-to-day living costs are comparatively low when it comes to healthcare and transportation versus many other states.

In addition, if you like getting outdoors and exploring nature, there are lots to see and do in Nebraska. While it is a reasonably flat region with lots of farmland, it is also home to multiple state parks and hiking trails, many of which boast quirky rock formations, fossils, and salt marshes. Meanwhile, the largest city Omaha has lots to offer both residents and visitors. From its vast Henry Dooly Zoo & Aquarium to its lively jazz/ indie music scene, you’ll never be bored here.

Are you looking for a rural spot for your pole barn home? North and western Nebraska are typically the quietest areas. That said, the state is largely open countryside dotted with small towns. Its cities are relatively small, so you won’t have to worry about overcrowding.

How much does a pole barn home in Nebraska cost?

One of the most common questions when building a pole barn is how much does a pole barn cost?

The cost of building a traditional brick-and-mortar home in Nebraska is on a par with states like Arkansas and New Mexico. For a best standard family home, you can expect to pay $145 per sq ft, while a new home with some custom features costs around $227 per sq ft.

In comparison, a custom barndominium will set you back $190 per sq ft on average. On the other hand, a timber frame pole barn home in Nebraska could cost as little as $15-35 per sq ft for the basic shell. From there, you can tailor the interior fixtures, fittings, and décor however you see fit. And you’ll have plenty left over to install a top-notch heating system for the winter!

Pole barn home builders in Nebraska

Critel Buildings

Specializing in post-frame structures, Critel Buildings is a family-run company in Hastings. Their competitively priced custom buildings include pole barns, garages, storage units, and first-rate shouses that combine shops with living spaces. All timber columns come with a 60-year warranty, and the frames can tolerate up to 115mph winds. Plus, free estimates and on-site consultations are available.

Art of a Craftsman

Founded in 2018, Art of a Craftsman builds and renovates custom homes in Omaha and the surrounding areas. Led by a carpenter with almost 30 years of experience, they will support you through every stage of the process, from the initial design to construction. Each room is designed in detail, with color swatches and proven floor plans available for inspiration.

DIY Legacy Post & Beam Home Kits

Or you could save on labor costs by purchasing a pole barn kit and constructing your home yourself. Legacy supplies both pre-designed and custom kits to suit your needs, with a wide range of floor plans and roof styles to choose from. Whichever package you opt for, all posts and beams are made from rustic and robust kiln-dried Douglas fir for maximum durability.

And if this is your first time building your own home and you feel you’d benefit from some pointers, be sure to check out our helpful guide with tips from the experts.

Ways to finance a pole barn home in Nebraska

It is possible to finance your pole barn home.

Although a pole barn home in Nebraska will cost considerably less than a classic property, you may still need some financial backing to fund the build and purchase of the plot of land. Agricultural lenders such as Farm Credit and the more local Nebraska Bank offer a variety of mortgages and other financial services for rural homebuyers and business owners.

However, if you don’t feel you meet their terms or you’re struggling to find funding alone, Barndominium Loans is a great alternative. You can check your eligibility online for free, then let their team narrow down the best mortgage products for you. Specialists in non-standard homes, they’ll handle researching and vetting, so all you have to do is pick the most suitable.

How to source insurance for a pole barn home

Insuring your pole barn home may be a little more difficult, but it is very possible.

A quality pole barn home in Nebraska could last over 100 years with proper care and attention. However, this midwestern state is nestled in the heart of Tornado Alley and averages around 50 tornadoes yearly. So, even if you use reinforced timber and double up with a concrete foundation and dug-in posts, it still pays to be insured just in case.

In order to arrange the relevant cover for your custom home, you will first need an accurate valuation from an appraiser. To make this process easier, track your spending during the build and record any structural additions made to shore the building up in harsh weather. Once you’ve got an estimate of your home’s value, you can then take it to your insurer, and they will use it to inform your policy.

Conclusion

Ready to learn more about building your dream pole barn? Be sure to check out how to insulate your pole barn, unique pole barn storage ideas to help maximize the space you have, as well as great pole barn front porch ideas that boost curb appeal to a whole new level. Get started designing your own pole barn with the best pole barn software to start turning your dreams into a reality! 

If you would like more guides like this one, check out the rest of BarndominiumLife.com. There, you will find more helpful tips and tricks from the pros. You will also find featured barndominiums, barndominium floor plans, and information on financing and insurance. Knowing as much as you can help you get the best results for your dream home.