An essential indicator for understanding custom home construction costs is the "cost per tsubo." Cost per tsubo refers to the construction cost for each tsubo of a building's floor area, and it directly affects budget planning and design flexibility. This article explains the basics of cost per tsubo and the key points to compare in detail.
What Is Cost Per Tsubo? A Key Indicator That Affects a Custom Home Budget
Cost per tsubo is an indicator that shows the construction cost for each 1 tsubo of a building's floor area (approximately 3.3 square meters). For example, if the planned building area is 40 tsubo and the cost per tsubo is 500,000 yen, the base building price can be calculated at 20 million yen.
An important point to note is that calculation methods differ by builder and manufacturer. The cost per tsubo changes depending on whether it is divided by the total floor area or the construction area. Because the construction area does not include balconies or basements, the cost per tsubo often appears lower than when calculated using total floor area.
How Are Cost Per Tsubo and Construction Costs Related?
Cost per tsubo is affected by both the base price and the total floor area.
- Design complexity：An exterior with many projections and recesses increases the wall area, which raises material and construction costs and results in a higher cost per tsubo
- Even if total floor area is reduced, cost per tsubo does not easily fall：Housing equipment such as kitchens and baths accounts for 20% to 30% of the base price, and reducing the area does not change the number of fixtures required
What Kind of Custom Home Can Be Built at Each Cost-Per-Tsubo Range?
- Below 400,000 yen：A grade comparable to spec-built homes, selected from a manufacturer's standard plans
- Around 700,000 yen：Natural materials and carefully selected equipment become possible
- Around 900,000 yen：Steel-frame construction also becomes an option, suitable for those who prioritize safety
- Above 900,000 yen：Reinforced concrete construction, full custom ordering, and imported equipment become possible
What Should You Check When Comparing Cost Per Tsubo?
When comparing cost per tsubo across manufacturers, be sure to confirm the following points.
- Calculation method：Whether it is calculated using total floor area or construction area
- Included equipment：Whether built-in lighting, whole-house air conditioning, solar panels, and similar items are included in the plan (this is often less expensive than adding them outside the plan)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Are there any tips for lowering cost per tsubo?
By using a simple square exterior and keeping the floor area of the first and second floors the same, you can reduce both exterior wall area and structural costs. It is also possible to allocate the savings to interior equipment and finishes.
Q. Does cost per tsubo include land costs?
No, it does not. Cost per tsubo applies only to the building's core construction cost, and land acquisition costs and related expenses must be budgeted separately.
Q. If a manufacturer has a low cost per tsubo, does that mean lower quality?
Not necessarily. Some manufacturers keep quality in place while holding down cost per tsubo through cost-saving measures such as standardized design and pre-cut construction methods.
