The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Barndominium in Georgia

If you’ve been thinking about building a Barndominium in Georgia, you’re definitely not alone. These modern, metal-meets-country homes are taking off across the South — and for good reason. They’re strong, beautiful, and built around lifestyle.

But let’s be real — there’s a lot more to this process than just picking a pretty floor plan off Pinterest.

I’m Megan — most people know me as The Barndo Chick — and for over two decades, I’ve helped people design, finance, and build their dream Barndominiums. From land to loans to layout, I’ve been in the trenches with clients and builders all across Georgia.

So, if you’re ready to turn that Barndo dream into something real, this video is going to walk you through what you actually need to know — not the fluffy stuff you hear online.

Before You Do Anything Else — Get Clear on Your Vision

Let’s start with the fun part: the dream.

Everyone begins with those gorgeous Pinterest photos — wraparound porches, black steel windows, big open living spaces. It’s easy to get lost in all the inspiration.

But before you get too deep into design ideas, pause and think about the why.

Why do you want a Barndominium?
Is it about lifestyle — space, privacy, flexibility?
Is it about cost? Or finally creating something that feels like you?

Getting clear on that vision helps everything else fall into place. Because your “why” determines your “what” — how much land you’ll need, what kind of structure makes sense, and how you want this home to function for you long-term.

The People Make the Project — Why You Need the Right Team

Now that you’ve got a vision, let’s talk about how to make it real — because this is where people get stuck.

Building a Barndo isn’t just about hiring a builder. It’s about having a team that understands the process from dirt to done.

That’s why I’ve created a TRUE one-stop-shop approach for my clients.

And when I say “true,” I mean it — because I’m not just another mortgage broker. Far from it.

I’ve built my own Barndo, my own stick-built lumber home, flipped properties, developed land, and even studied architecture in college. I know firsthand what it’s like to navigate these challenges — from blueprints to closing.

That’s why I can relate to my clients on the deepest level — I’ve walked the same path they’re walking.

That’s the foundation of my one-stop-shop concept. It’s why my clients have zero interest in working with just a loan originator or a lender who says, “Here’s your preapproval — good luck figuring out the rest.”

That’s a trainwreck waiting to happen.

Avoid all of that by working with a team — people who know what they’re doing, who can collaborate, and who genuinely want your project to succeed.
It’s imperative to a smooth, successful build.

When you work with me, you’re not piecing this together alone — you get a structured plan that includes:

• A financing strategy built specifically for Barndominiums

• Land-savvy real estate agents who know what makes property truly buildable

• Builders and architects with proven experience in getting these projects approved

• And clear communication from start to finish

When everyone’s aligned, the entire process runs smoother, faster, and with far fewer surprises.

Let’s Get Real — Financing Comes FIRST

Here’s where most people go wrong: they start with land or floor plans before they know what they can actually finance.

Let me say this clearly — your pre-approval should always be your very first step.

If you don’t have a budget, you could be planning everything else — paying for designs, deposits, even engineering — only to find out later that your project will cost way more than you can afford.

If there’s one takeaway from this entire video — let this be it.
This is your pearl of wisdom: do NOT set yourself up for failure.
Start with financing. Know your numbers first.

And here’s something most people don’t realize — most lenders do not offer financing for Barndominiums.
It’s still considered a niche product, which is exactly why I’ve built my entire career around it.

Barndominiums are my specialty — it’s literally where my name, “The Barndo Chick,” came from.

Once you’re pre-approved with me, you gain access to my exclusive referral partner network.

It’s a constantly growing ecosystem of professionals who specialize in Barndominiums and new construction.

• Builders are reaching out every week asking to be vetted and approved.

• Real estate agents who focus on land sales — they’re worth their weight in gold.

• And architectural plan designers who understand every nuance of Barndominiums — and traditional builds too — because no two projects are alike.

That network gives my clients a serious advantage. You don’t have to start from scratch or guess who to trust — I’ve already done the vetting for you.

I’m the Broker and Owner of Excel Mortgage, and I’ve specialized in Barndominium and new-construction financing since 2003. I help clients across Georgia get pre-approved, connect with approved builders, and move confidently from concept to closing.

Here’s what to expect with Barndominium financing:

• One-Time Close Construction Loans that includes purchasing the land if needed (some clients already own their property which is fine!), the cost of construction, and the conversion to a mortgage into one seamless closing. It truly lives up to it’s name – one closing for everything!You close on the loan on a Tuesday and break ground the next morning on Wednesday!

When you start here, everything else — land, design, and construction — falls into place naturally.

Choosing Land — Because Location Isn’t Just a Cliché

Georgia is an amazing state to build in — from mountain views to rolling farmland to lakeside lots — but every county has its own rules.

Before you fall in love with a piece of property, make sure you understand:

• Zoning & Restrictions: Some areas or HOAs don’t allow Barndominiums

• Utilities: Will you need a well or septic? Is power nearby?

• Soil Conditions: Poor soil can create major foundation costs later

Pro Tip: Work with a real estate agent who specializes in land, not just homes — and always get a soil test before closing.

A Word About Builders — Experience Matters

This is where a lot of projects go sideways — and it almost always comes down to the wrong builder.

Not every builder understands Barndominiums. Some are great at traditional homes, but Barndos require a different approach — from framing and insulation to how lender documentation is handled.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Builder Approval — lenders require licensed, insured builders; no DIY builds – unless you are a licensed general contractor!

• Make sure they have built Barndos before. Experience matters!

• Have them review your plans early — a good builder will spot potential issues before they become expensive problems.

When I work with clients, I help vet and connect them with builders who already meet lender requirements and have proven experience with Barndominiums. It saves time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

Designing Smart — Because Function Matters as Much as Style

Once your financing and team are in place, this is where the fun really begins.

Of course you want it to look beautiful — but let’s make sure it lives well too.

Think about:

• Energy efficiency: Insulation and airflow are huge with metal structures.

• Resale value: Not everyone loves an all-open loft — balance personality with practicality.

• Storage & flow: Where’s the laundry? The mudroom? The pantry? You’ll thank yourself later.

Pro Tip: Hire a designer or architect who’s done Barndos before. They’ll help you make smart use of every square foot without sacrificing style.

And let’s just say… I might happen to know one of the nation’s best Barndo designers. [wink]

How Long Does It Take? — Faster Than You Might Think

Now, let’s talk timeline — because this part always raises eyebrows.

You’ve probably heard that Barndominiums take a year or more to build. And while that can happen, here’s the truth:
a 2,500 to 3,000 square-foot Barndo can absolutely be completed in about 4 to 6 months.

You heard me right — four to six months.

I’ve seen it over and over again. With the right builder, good communication, and a plan that’s organized from the start, that timeline is completely realistic.

Sure, things like permitting, weather, or material delays can stretch it out a bit — but that 4–6-month window is a very achievable sweet spot for a beautiful, well-executed Barndo.

The secret is preparation, accountability, and working with professionals who actually understand this process.

Wrapping It All Up — You’re Not Just Building a Barndo

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about walls and a roof — it’s about creating your sanctuary.

And while Barndominiums are considered trendy, there’s a right way to do it — with a clear plan, solid financing, and a team that knows how to deliver.

If you’re ready to explore Barndominium financing, let’s connect!

I’m Megan — The Barndo Chick, powered by Excel Mortgage — helping Georgia families excel their dreams into reality!