Building Homes in PR

It is typically more expensive to buy a lot and then build. But you end up with a new house not a 40 year old house build to someone else standards and that is probably not up to code.

There are places that will show you a plan and build you the house then give you the keys, mostly low concern but your choices are a little limited as to changes.
Some contractors do speak English, many don't but there are contractors that deal mostly with modern styles and those speak enough English.

You also have the option of hiring and Engineer to draft the plans the way you want and land engineers and other specialist to deal with the type of foundation needed for hilly lands.

I typically recommend boots on the ground, you don't want to find out that the wall was moved a foot because someone screwup or that the light switches are in the wrong place. Keep an eye make sure it is done to your needs.

Typical cost is around 65 per square feet. But I seen 45. The toilets, lamps, doors and windows selected can make a huge difference usually upward.

Anybody else have a different advice or cost?

Another option for building is where you go to some company and buy a kit. You select one of their floor plans, they will sell you a kit with sand, windows, doors, concrete, concrete blocks, screws, etc and drop it at the lot. You get a contractor and its crew to build it.

Some people do not trust the contractor and they buy the materials directly from the different places to ensure the contractor is not buying cheaper materials or price gouging them.

Either one means the materials need be protected so they are not damaged or stolen.

Newbie contractor are always running out of material and asking for more money.

A typical house gets build in 9 to 12 months, they don't work when it rains or it is too hot, they start very early in the morning before the sun is up to avoid the heat and probably quit by 2 or 3.

Thanks so much Rey!  You are a fountain of information!  I notice that in a lot of the houses, the windows are smaller than you notice in the newer homes in the states.  I would like really large windows or even a wall of windows, but am wondering if that is very impractical in PR?   I would guess they would need to be hurricane safe, which would be costly.  Also, maybe it would get really hot with large window?  Any feelings about that?

Impractical at ground level unless they are very thick. The windows now days are small slants that are security windows and you open them via a crank to minimal or maximum air flow.

Typical US windows open to one side or up, making it easy to break or in the case of the side may open in the wrong direction so no air enters the house.

PR windows expect direct hit by the wind but they can also leak when the wind is blowing the rain horizontal.a lot of times the outside has a lip to cut down the chances of rain entering while the window is partially open.

US window locks are easy to snap and then you just lift it and enter. Solid glass lets the sun in but it is a wall that stops the air and only safer to use in a second or third floor.

Some houses are never broken into but be aware.

adlin20 and melendesky are good sources for information about construction and contractors.

Building costs on PR are about 80% of what they are on the mainland,  However, this is in some ways comparing apples to oranges.  Most houses on the mainland are "stick built" while in PR they are most commonly concrete.  While the materials cost for the construction are higher in PR, the time to construct a concrete house is much reduced, saving you labor costs.  It took me quite a while to find the comparison tables -- if I saved them to my computer I'll post a link to them.  As I recall, someone posted his costs to build a few months ago -- about $70/sq ft. if memory serves.  Rey is right that appliance and fittings drive the cost up.  Industry averages are published for six levels of homes, from bare bones, cheapest appliances and fittings to the highest end custom-built accouterments.

I've owned too many old houses at this point to want to spend time pulling wire, repairing leaky pipes, replacing shingles, and all of the myriad other headaches that come from owning a home "with character".

I've still got 3-5 years before retirement, so I've been taking my time, finding the right place.  We are now in the slow process of negotiations on our fourth property.  The other three fell through at various stages.  Only one of those three had a house on it (a beautiful 3200 sq ft, 5 bed, 3 bath overlooking the sea). 

Our plan will be to rent in the area while construction is accomplished.  I've got a rough design of the structure I want, as well as the mechanicals (water, electricity, HVAC).  A rental in the area would allow me to keep an eye on the construction, though having spent time on a number of job sites, I can tell you that the last thing a general contractor wants is an owner constantly butting in.  And as the owner, you will want to avoid change orders if at all possible -- they cause all kinds of headaches, and are terribly expensive!

Builders are indeed an open question, and I'm disappointed to see that the "references" section of this forum is under-utilized, especially with regard to references for those in the skilled trades.  I've got a line on a construction company that looks good from their website, but I haven't met with them -- that would be premature.  Once I've bought the property, then I start the search for a builder.  By the way, you concern about being taken is common in the industry, regardless of gender.  It is common for an outsider wanting to build in an area to employ the services of a local, known to all of the builders.  In the trades, this local is known as a "beard".

Rey, crikey it never occured to me that windows are like that due to likely break ins.  Safety first, so that won't do!  Why live beachfront if you have small windows?  Darn!    And I need a one story house.

Lots of great information Warner!  Yes I think lots of people are willing to take advantage of anyone to make a buck.  More forgivable if you are just trying to feed your family. But unforgivable if you are a millionaire!  If you can find the info, it would be much appreciated to post it for others, if you can.  You had 3 deals fall thru and on the 4th.  Great persistence!  Can I ask what area you are looking in?

How do you ever secure building materials with a kit, or just in general?   So many things to think about!  Hopefully more people who took on the gargantuan task of building a house there will fill us in on the process, pitfalls, trials and tribulations!

I keep adding to my own post because  I think of new questions.  Sheesh!  For those that live in more rural areas, do you have roads, elecricity, plumbing, water, etc?  Or do you have to rely on wells, septic, generators or alternate sources of energy.  I ask because I saw a lot near water, but it was not hooked up to any services.  Too remote for me, but it got me wondering?

We built our retirement house last year. I can tell you the process is long and requires a lot of paperwork. A good engineer or contractor with the inside knowledge will be very helpful, specially if you decide to buid a house of your own design. The first step will be plans approved by ARPE, this is where a good contractor comes into play. We used a "delineante " (plan designer), he draw our plans based on my sketch, submitted to the engineer and got the government approval. Next came the site insurance, for this you will need to go to "El Fondo de Seguro del Estado" (workers comp). Next pay the municipal tax. Sounds complicated but in reality it was just time consuming.

PM me and I can give you more information. I will strongly recommend being on site if you don't have someone you trust on site. For the paperwork you either need to go in person or authorize someone to do this paperwork for you. Also, you want to do the insurance and all paperwork for permits yourself, if you have to fire your contractor at any point you do not want him to walk away with your permits.

Overall we love our house and it is built how we wanted. 

We spend around  $140K by the time all was done. We have a main structure of aproximate 45 x 35 and a guest room of 15 x 15 with a 9 x 9 bathroom.

Live2sparkle wrote:

I keep adding to my own post because  I think of new questions.  Sheesh!  For those that live in more rural areas, do you have roads, elecricity, plumbing, water, etc?  Or do you have to rely on wells, septic, generators or alternate sources of energy.  I ask because I saw a lot near water, but it was not hooked up to any services.  Too remote for me, but it got me wondering?

You can get service to most locations in the island. BUT, do your homework because you may be required to pay to have a pole or water lines run to the property.  The seller should be able to tell you if there are utilities in the property and you can go to the utilities companies and verify that they do have it.

Good question regarding power and water.  One of the lots we considered had no such access.  It also had no easement.  In effect, it was landlocked.  The owners did secure an easement eventually, at which point we were willing to make an offer -- but as is common, the owners had a fantastical idea of what the property was worth.  Unimproved lots will have (or SHOULD have) access to utilities, but you will have to pay for the connection as part of the construction process. 

My understanding is that the construction permitting process is an absolute nightmare, compared to what we do on the mainland.  My plan is to have the construction company lead me through that, but I appreciate adlin's advice to make sure that the permits are mine, and not the construction company's.

I found the cost estimator, and will provide the link below.  The document points out the number of factors affecting overall cost, so you can either dream about the house you want and figure out what it will cost, or you can figure ways to get as much house as possible for your dollar.  Secondly, note that prices vary by locality, so there are  "Area Modification Factors".  The modification for Puerto Rico is -21% (p. 8).  Have fun!

https://www.craftsman-book.com/media/st … review.pdf

Is -21 a good thing?
No time to read thru the document yet.

ReyP wrote:

Is -21 a good thing?
No time to read thru the document yet.

Yes, it means that construction costs are 21% lower in PR than on the mainland.  Avg cost per square foot on the mainland is about $100, so expect to pay about $80 on the island.

Based on our experience, allow a 10-15% over your estimated budget. There is a big difference between construction materials, for example, we installed bay windows, that was over $3K difference from regular miami windows. Lots of builders quotes are based on " standard " materials , we saved a lot of money buying the materials ourselves.

If you are building a custom house, like we did, make sure you discuss the design with the builder and that he completely understands what you want. Most builders in the island build based on the same designs. It is not the same as in the states, a concrete house is a PITA having to re do, specialty plumbing and electricity since it goes in the floors and walls. Make sure you think on future additions, for example, if you are planning to add solar heating, make sure is added to the original plan, hard to add water lines to a concrete roof. I heard a quote from a builder and it is true "cement bonds but not the same as original".

Our experience with the paperwork was not as bad, yes it was a tedious process, just like any other procedure in the island. But, every agency we had to go was very helpful and took care of us in a timely manner. Like I mentioned before, a good contractor or engineer will be able to advise you and guide you thru the process.

The good thing is that at the end you will have a house designed to your satisfaction and needs.

Hi Adlin, I know this is an old post, but I'm looking to set up a couple face to face meetings a builders in the west side of the island. You had a good experience with your builder. Is he on the west side and would you please send me his contact information.
Thank you
-Felix

Good Morning!  I am new to this forum and happy I found it!

We are building a new home near Jobos Beach.  The site engineering, Architectural and structural plans are complete and are in the process of obtaining the permits.  Our engineer has been great and very helpful.  I am now faced with finding a General contractor.  Being a General contractor myself, I am aware of the difficulties that this presents. I have been combing the web trying to find a list of contractors but the information is sketchy at best. 

Can anyone on this forum make any recommendations?

Hello Tim, I have a builder that I will be working with.
He is in the town of Aguada and he’s built some of the best looking homes in Aguada. Most near the beach. Just one caveat, he only speaks Spanish. 
Let me know if you still want his info.

Fburgos,
Can you provide me with contact info on the contractor. We are looking to build in Aguada area.
Ron

Hello Ron, 
I just checked with the builder/contractor and I made him aware you may be calling him.
Please be aware he only speaks spanish.  Should you need a translator I'm willing to get on a three way call on his behalf. He's a gentleman with very high standards.

His Name:  A***
Phone: ***

Looks like I'm not allowed to post a phone number. Tried and it was blocked.

Fburgos wrote:

Looks like I'm not allowed to post a phone number. Tried and it was blocked.

Yes need use private messaging. Click on the person name, it should take you to their profile, and do a :Send message:.

Good to know.
Gracias.

Fburgos, can you please provide me with your contractors contact information ? My husband and I are looking into building in the Aguadilla . We are moving from Texas to Aguadilla and have no idea where to start.

V1ctoria wrote:

Fburgos, can you please provide me with your contractors contact information ? My husband and I are looking into building in the Aguadilla . We are moving from Texas to Aguadilla and have no idea where to start.

You may want to check this site. Apparently this site has all the registered contractors. Any contractor not in the list I would worry about. http://daco.pr.gov/reports/viewrepreg.a … on=Humacao

Just change the region to get the ones in your area, note the expiration date (Fecha de Vencimiento) their registration may be expired.

Thanks a whole lot, Rey.

V1ctoria wrote:

Thanks a whole lot, Rey.

Not so much, in my area I noticed that a lot of them have their registration expired, check the dates. The list comes from the consumer advocacy group.

I would get estimates from at least 3 companies, ask about permits, licenses and insurance. Some contractors are just ripping people off and or do not have the skills or license to do some of the work which means they are fraudulent. Maybe call DACO and ask about the licenses your contractors should have.

Rey, having that list is a good start. But I have to say, implying that someone is not reputable and possibly doesn't have the skill set because they are not on that list is outrageous.  Lets not forget, there hasn't been a whole lot of building going on and some contractors may have just lapsed on renewing their membership for that reason.
I'm sure anyone on that list probably paid a fee. 

Let me also say, I simply recommend people who have a great sense of design, style and above all honest. Adrian, also happens to be a developer.  "Sueño Real" in Aguada.

Contractors, even here in the state can be crook. So, just like here in the states, I would go based on recommends and see their work first hand.

Fburgos wrote:

Rey, having that list is a good start. But I have to say, implying that someone is not reputable and possibly doesn't have the skill set because they are not on that list is outrageous.  Lets not forget, there hasn't been a whole lot of building going on and some contractors may have just lapsed on renewing their membership for that reason.
I'm sure anyone on that list probably paid a fee. 

Let me also say, I simply recommend people who have a great sense of design, style and above all honest. Adrian, also happens to be a developer.  "Sueño Real" in Aguada.

Contractors, even here in the state can be crook. So, just like here in the states, I would go based on recommends and see their work first hand.

I never said that.You are reading too much into things. There are such things as licenses and formal education anyone that wants to hire somebody that does not have their certifications is free to do so. I would not, but people are free to take risks.

And there you go again.
I’m done with this.

Many of you do not read the newspapers in PR, but if you did, you would find things like these happening to some clients:
1) Client payed up front 22k and the contractor can no longer be found
2) Contractor estimated 60k for the repair and ran out of money, work is 1/2 done.
3) Roof repair two years latter is leaking like a sift
4) AEE will not allow connecting to the distribution lines because the installation of solar system was not performed by a licensed electrician.
5) House extension created without permits, owner fined.

It is important that you get bids Victoria, that the people be properly licensed for whatever type of work you need done and that they get the right permits.

The building standards have been upgraded due to Maria and at least in my mind it makes sense to get work done by someone that is a profesional (not a part timer) that is certified and up to date in standards.

I have several "Contractors" in my family, but I will not use them nor recommend them because they are self made and have no license and no certifications and are not registered with DACO.While they may be brilliant and have done good work in the past, I cant sue them because they have no assets and no insurance.

Me I am building a house, I am hiring an Engineer and have him oversee the construction and the contractor while I oversee the Engineer, the contractor and the work. They can hate me, but my house will be build to the house plans and wires and tubing will be laid out according to plans, and angles and measurements will be precise.

Solar and generator connections can be tricky, if there is no electricity getting to your house, your system should not generate a voltage that goes into the lines of AEE for safety reason (may kill a worker) and besides they need to give you credit for energy they receive and not for energy they did not received, and they will only install the special meter that gives you credit if the electric work is up to standards and has the proper paperwork and permits by a licensed electrician with the proper certifications for that type of work.

Hello Rey, hello all:

I am building in Puerto Rico. I have an engineer but will like to have the name of a contractor that someone has already used. We are building in Quebradillas. The name of the contractor that our engineer recommended is in the list, but he disappeared for a month and now has come back with a different quote, saying that construction prices for materials -since Maria- have gone up, and he wants more $.

Is this true?  We don't want to build with this guy. We live in the States and will be here while construction is done, going back and forth. We need someone reliable.

Could anyone help?

Peace, Joanna

jgoergen wrote:

Hello Rey, hello all:

I am building in Puerto Rico. I have an engineer but will like to have the name of a contractor that someone has already used. We are building in Quebradillas. The name of the contractor that our engineer recommended is in the list, but he disappeared for a month and now has come back with a different quote, saying that construction prices for materials -since Maria- have gone up, and he wants more $.

Is this true?  We don't want to build with this guy. We live in the States and will be here while construction is done, going back and forth. We need someone reliable.

Could anyone help?

Peace, Joanna

At this moment there is price gouging going on, lots of materials are 50% and more, diuferent agencies including DACO are looking into it.

The price of steel and aluminum have increased as a result of the new Tariffs . That may be why.

Possibly but ..... So has wood and cement. DACO is investigating.

Nope, it's fact.
Imposing a 25 percent tariff on imports of steel  and a 10 percent tariff on imports of aluminum. will have an affect on home building here and in Puerto Rico.

I would never have a large building project of mine happen while I am away in the states.   The opportunity for fraud, materials loss, corner cutting, etc. is just too risky.

IMO you need boots on the ground at the building site to ensure proper construction methods and materials.   

Actually, due to the unique system in P.R. it is much less risky to built without being there than it is in the U.S..  If you use a construction loan - as we do- the bank will be in constant contact with the engineer and the construction firm. They break up the building process into 5 steps and only pay the contractor after each step has been inspected and approved. They build the foundation, the bank sends an inspector who checks if everything is done according to plan and then they cut the next check. The final check has to be approved by the owner.  In addition, your engineer will check in once a week to make sure all is done right.  We also have a relative who will go by to check.....and now and then you fly there to look for yourself.
Also, you can install a camera at the construction site and check via streaming video any time to see what is going on....

Well....not for me I’m going to keep an eye on my project.