August 30, 2010

Opinion: Clarifying costs for GreenFab's demonstration house project

(Re: A reader comment online about costs quoted in “GreenFab bets modular green homes are the next big thing,” DJC, Aug. 27) We are sorry for any confusion and appreciate the opportunity to clarify the discrepancies in cost. This project is unique in that the architect who designed the home is the owner and general contractor. Additionally many members of the building community have donated time and services to help with this demonstration project. This lowers the final cost of the home.

Also the costs quoted assume a total cost per square foot of $180. But it's still uncertain whether the owner/architect will want to build-out the non-modular and site-built flex space in the basement. The total square footage that may be built out for this demonstration project may be about 1,440 square feet rather than 1,635 square feet.

• Soft costs, including transportation, installation, finishing work and engineering, are included in the square footage calculation

• This first demonstration home is at the upper end of the models that will be available and has more “bells and whistles.” But GreenFab will also offer less expensive homes that are still a deep level of green and will meet 4-star Built Green and LEED for Homes Gold standards. GreenFab is targeting a cost per square foot range for our future homes starting at a base of $125 to $150. Performance and finish package upgrades could increase the price per square foot up to $250 or $300. Our goal is to offer homes and options to as many people as possible, not just the elite few.

• The real cost savings that modular offers will come from smaller and larger multi-unit developments rather than one-off projects like the demonstration home.

• This first demonstration project is a learning process for everyone involved and, as a team, we are all still narrowing down and refining construction costs. In the near future, and as this home is completed, GreenFab will be adjusting our targeted pricing to reflect the actualities of this demonstration home.

Johnny Hartsfield

GreenFab

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