Shell cost is not the full project cost
The metal building shell is one major line item, but the budget also includes slab, dirt work, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, insulation, windows, doors, interior walls, fixtures, cabinets, and exterior flatwork.
Shop-house layouts change the math
A barndominium with a large shop, RV bay, covered equipment area, or deep porches may cost differently than a simple living-only plan even when the living square footage looks similar.
Plan the site and building together
Drainage, driveway approach, equipment access, utility runs, and slab elevations should be coordinated before the building package is finalized.
Talk through the numbers with the property in mind.
The right answer depends on the land, structure, finish level, utilities, and schedule. A short project conversation is more useful than a generic square-foot estimate.