How to Build a House in Wyoming

Wyoming is a beautiful western state known for its scenic landscapes and being home to Yellowstone National Park. Though a popular tourist state, Wyoming has a relatively low population of roughly 578,000, as of the 2020 census. Wyoming’s culture stems from its historic land and early frontier days. To this day the state is associated with cowboys and rodeos. In fact, the state’s registered trademark is The Bucking Horse & Rider symbol, which is used in a multitude of ways. Another fun fact is that Wyoming earned its nickname “the Equality State” from its early advancements in women’s rights, some of which were established before it was granted statehood!

It’s no wonder people love living in the Wild West! There’s no better time than now to start building your dream home in Wyoming. Although there is plenty of beautiful land, about half is federally owned and set aside for preservation. This, however, doesn’t mean you won’t find the perfect lot to build your house.

Climate Considerations

If you’re considering moving to the Equality State or you already call it home, there are certain things you should consider about its climate. Wyoming has warm summers and frigid winters with heavy snowfall. The average range of temperatures in Wyoming is about 27 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit with the temperatures rarely falling below 14 nor climbing above 94. So, when you’re trying to find a time of year to build your home, it would be best to start in the spring. This will ensure you have sufficient time before the ground begins to freeze.

Cost to Build a House in Wyoming

There are a few costs to consider when building your home out west in Wyoming.

Location

Buying land in a place you love is a critical part of building your home. The ranch lifestyle is definitely one of the most idyllic in Wyoming. The price of ranchland varies in Wyoming but is usually determined by factors such as aesthetics, hunting, fishing, water resources, and more. Though known for its ranch lifestyle, Wyoming is also a great state to buy any land in because it does not collect state income tax, making this great western state more attractive and affordable as you will have more money to invest in your new home. 

Materials

Materials are a large chunk of home building expenses. The cost, however, will depend heavily on the supply and demand in your area. So talk to local construction professionals to get a feel for what the climate is like when you want to build.

Labor

Labor is also a big expense when building your new home. This includes the contractors who will be hired to construct your home. Your home builder will play an important role in keeping costs low and completing your home in a timely manner.

General Construction Timeline

Read on to discover the overall construction timeline for building a home in Wyoming.

Purchase Your Lot

When you purchase your lot in Wyoming, it’s important to decipher the difference between a raw purchase and a residential land purchase. Your financing options will be more limited for a raw land purchase but vary for residential purchases. Discuss your financial options with local realtors and lenders beforehand.

Hire a Home Builder

Once you’ve found your dream lot, it’s time to look for a home builder. Finding the right home builder will be vital to a smooth homebuilding process, so make sure it’s someone you like. Helpful websites like Trustbuilder are great options for finding a reliable builder. Trustbuilder gives homebuilder reviews from real homebuyers, giving you peace of mind when looking for the person to help build your future home.

Complete Permits and Paperwork

When going through the homebuilding process, there are certain permits and paperwork that must be completed before, during, and after the process is completed. For example, before you start building, you will need to file an application with the appropriate Building Department in Wyoming. Areas in Wyoming are either incorporated or unincorporated. If you are building in an incorporated area you will make an application with your city Building Department; if the area is unincorporated you will apply with the county Building Department.

The time it takes to get a permit will vary in your county or city. When it comes to additional county- or city-specific paperwork, your builder will make the appropriate filings at the proper time.

Build Your Home

Building a house is an exciting, fun, yet lengthy process. Once you have purchased the lot, it will be prepared for your home – starting with the foundation Your builder will advise you on the foundation that is best suited for your home and lot. Next, the rough framing can begin. Throughout these steps, certain inspections will occur, but this will depend on state and county requirements.

Once the rough framing is complete, the house really starts to come together. The inner workings are installed such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Then the siding and roofing are installed, and the finishing touches are added until the home is complete. Learn more about the homebuilding process to know what to fully expect in each phase.

Helpful Tips for Building a Home in Wyoming

Find a City You Love

Before you buy land in Wyoming, it’s important to consider where you want to build. Luckily for you, Wyoming has many beautiful cities that you can call home. Whether you’re looking for the most affordable cities in Wyoming or you’re ready to build your retirement home out west, Wyoming has it all.

Other Tips

Wyoming has many unique features. Before you purchase a lot, verify that it is not landlocked by other property. Also, confirm that the former owner does not have standing agreements with cattle ranches for access through the property. These types of issues should show up on the Title Commitment. Also, be sure to research financial incentives, as they could save you money.

Build Your Wyoming Home Today

Wyoming is a wonderful place to call home and an affordable place to build a house. Get ready, the wild west is waiting for you!