Hiring builders/subs 2+ hours away

9 years ago

We are building in a touristy area in Northern MI. Back during the market collapse, many contractors and subs went out of business or left the area. The building market didn't really pick back up until last year.

Now, the labor quotes we're getting are nuts. If they respond at all. GCs are having labor shortages and we feel like our home will cost a premium. There is a large city about 2.5 hours south of us (nothing much in between) where you can get much more house for the money.

Do you think it would be worth getting a GC from the bigger city to quote our build? Or is that not feasible due to the distance? Has anyone here done it?

Comments (4)

amberm145_gw
9 years ago
2.5 hours is a bit far for a daily commute. I think any savings is going to be eaten up by having to pay for lodging for your trades.

On the other hand, some trades may only be on site for a week or so. Even quicker if they aren't showing up for an hour or so, then heading to another job. You'll have their undivided attention and they'll be in a hurry to get your job done so they can get home. So you might consider it for a few really hard to find trades.
Oaktown
9 years ago
Our GC has built homes 2+ hours from here, but not frequently. Our framers are from 2+ hours away and regularly work on buildings in our area. One of the architects lives 2.5+ hours away from the office and just goes back home on weekends. So, I guess it depends. Couldn't hurt to look around a bit -- you might not save much $ but at least you might get on someone's calendar more quickly. Good luck!
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lazy_gardens
9 years ago
" 2.5 hours south of us"

They would have a 5-hour commute, or have to pay for lodging in "a touristy area". ... Unless they are desperate, have RVs, or you can find them a free place to live, they probably won't bid the job. But, it does no harm in asking ... they might do it.
_sophiewheeler
9 years ago
For the right price, you can get anyone on site, even from further than that. However, the associated housing costs that you would need to assume to be able to do that would outstrip any ''savings'' by far. You're not going to defeat the market economy. The current labor price is the current labor price.