The Pros and Cons of Living in a Barndominium

Over the past few years, barndominiums have gone from rural novelty to one of the most requested builds we get at Stimson Contracting. And it’s easy to see why—barndos offer a unique combination of open-concept living, rustic charm, and unbeatable functionality.

But just like any home style, living in a barndominium comes with its own set of benefits and challenges. I’ve built dozens of these structures for clients across the Inland Northwest, and I’ve also had plenty of conversations with folks considering the lifestyle change that comes with them.

So in this article, I want to break it down for you—the real pros and cons of living in a barndominium—from the perspective of someone who’s been hands-on with these builds from day one.

Table of Contents

1. What Is a Barndominium?

2. Pro: Affordability and Cost Efficiency

3. Con: Financing Can Be Tricky

4. Pro: Fast and Flexible Construction

5. Con: Limited Urban Appeal or Resale Market

6. Pro: Open Floor Plans and Custom Design

7. Con: Heating and Cooling May Need Special Planning

8. Pro: Low Maintenance Materials

9. Con: Some Communities or HOAs May Restrict Them

10. Pro: Perfect for Multi-Use Living

11. Should You Build a Barndominium?

12. Why Build with Stimson Contracting

1. What Is a Barndominium?

Let’s start with the basics: a barndominium, or “barndo,” is a custom home built using post-frame construction (a.k.a. pole barn framing). These buildings typically combine residential living quarters with shop, garage, or storage space—all under one durable metal roof.

Barndominiums are especially popular in rural areas where space is plentiful and multi-use buildings are more practical. They're ideal for folks who want the flexibility of a shop or hobby area alongside a beautiful, livable home.

2. Pro: Affordability and Cost Efficiency

One of the biggest selling points of a barndo is the cost.

Because they use post-frame construction, barndominiums generally require less labor and fewer materials than traditional stick-built homes. You also don’t need a full basement or heavy foundation, which cuts down your concrete and excavation costs.

This makes barndos a smart option for people who want to maximize square footage on a budget without sacrificing comfort or design.

3. Con: Financing Can Be Tricky

Here’s a reality we’ve had to help some clients through: financing a barndominium isn’t always straightforward.

Some lenders aren’t familiar with post-frame residential construction and may treat it as non-conforming. You may need to provide detailed plans, find a flexible lender, or look at construction-to-permanent loan options.

At Stimson, we connect clients with barndo-friendly lenders and help navigate the paperwork, but it’s something to plan for early.

4. Pro: Fast and Flexible Construction

Compared to conventional homes, barndominiums go up fast. The post-frame structure is quick to erect, and once the shell is up, interior customization is easy.

We’ve built fully finished barndos in a matter of weeks, depending on size and complexity. That kind of speed means you move in faster—and save on labor.

5. Con: Limited Urban Appeal or Resale Market

Barndominiums are still a relatively niche market, especially in urban and suburban areas.

If you think you might sell your home in the near future, know that not every buyer is familiar with barndos—and some real estate agents may not know how to price or market them effectively.

That said, in rural markets, barndos are hot right now and can hold excellent resale value—especially if they’re well-designed and permitted properly.

6. Pro: Open Floor Plans and Custom Design

Barndominiums are known for their open-concept interiors, which make them ideal for families, entertaining, or just enjoying wide-open living spaces.

You can customize every detail:

• Vaulted ceilings

• Lofted bedrooms

• Wraparound porches

• Rustic beams or modern finishes

At Stimson Contracting, we work with clients to create floor plans that suit their lifestyles perfectly—no cookie-cutter layouts here.

7. Con: Heating and Cooling May Need Special Planning

With tall ceilings and large open spaces, barndominiums require a little extra planning when it comes to HVAC systems.

You’ll want efficient insulation, properly sized ductwork, and possibly zoned climate control. It’s not hard to manage, but it’s not something to wing at the last minute either.

We help clients design energy-efficient systems right from the start, so comfort doesn’t become a post-construction problem.

8. Pro: Low Maintenance Materials

Most barndos use metal siding and roofing, which are extremely durable and require minimal upkeep. No peeling paint, cracked shingles, or siding rot to deal with.

This makes barndominiums an especially attractive choice for homeowners who value longevity and low-maintenance living.

9. Con: Some Communities or HOAs May Restrict Them

Before you commit to building, check with your local building department or HOA (if applicable). Some communities have restrictions on metal buildings or post-frame homes.

While most rural areas are barndominium-friendly, it's better to confirm up front than to deal with costly redesigns later.

10. Pro: Perfect for Multi-Use Living

Barndominiums are ideal for people who need their home to do more than just provide living space.

Need a shop for your business? A studio? A horse barn with a guest suite? With a barndo, you can combine all of those under one roof.

That versatility is hard to beat—and a big reason so many people are building them today.

11. Should You Build a Barndominium?

If you value open space, flexibility, affordability, and modern-rustic charm, a barndominium might be the perfect home for you.

Just be sure to plan your financing, insulation, and floor layout with expert help—and make sure you’re building in an area where a barndo is welcomed and properly permitted.

12. Why Build with Stimson Contracting

We’ve been building pole barns and barndominiums for decades here in the Inland Northwest. We know the local codes, the design options, and the best materials for long-term success.

When you build with us, you get:

• Custom design assistance

• Help with permitting and site planning

• Experienced builders who stand behind their work

• A finished home that’s built to last—and built to live in

Let’s Build Your Barndominium

Thinking about making the leap into barndominium living? Let’s talk.

At Stimson Contracting, we’ll walk you through every step—from dream to design to final inspection. Whether you’re looking for a small, cozy barndo or a sprawling shop-home combo, we’ll help you build it right.