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If I build with Zak’s, what are my building options?
Zak’s residential division is a full service builder. Whether your dream home is a site build or RTM, Zak’s can build at any scale.
Do I need to choose from your plans, or can I bring in a custom plan?
‘One of a kind…just like you!’
What types of Homes or Cottages does Zak’s build?
Our Homes & Cottages division has 4 different options for you to explore:
- Simple Homes & Cottages
Developed for our most cost-conscious customers and as a response to the ‘tiny home’ market. However, ours are different – completely code built.
a. These are self-contained, code-compliant homes and cottages. Pricing includes RTM with plumbing/heating system, screw pile foundation, and delivery within 200 km of Zak’s. They do not include appliances and require on-site hook ups (power, gas, sewer, water) and frost protection for services. Decks and skirting can be added if requested.
b. Our current Simple Home options range between $110,000 and $260,000 plus taxes, line lifts and site work. (Jan 2025)
c. Our currently available units can be found on our website under “Homes and Cottages” then “Available Now”.
d. These units are not typically customizable.
e. You can find more information on our website under “Building Options” then “Simple Homes”. - Pre-designed RTM Homes & Cottages
Our professional team of builders and designers develop plans that check all the boxes for you – including the best possible pricing – and they are already being built – just in time to expedite your project.
a. These homes and cottages are pre-built for a quicker sale. Pricing includes RTM only. Move costs and site work not included. Site work could include but is not limited to mechanical systems, hook ups (power, gas, sewer, water), foundations and garages. Zak’s can complete as much or as little of the site work as you require.
b. These units tend to range between $170 and $220 per square foot for RTM only. (Jan 2025)
c. Our currently available units can be found on our website under “Homes and Cottages” then “Available Now”.
d. Site work price per square foot can range from $100 -$200+ depending on scope of work. (Jan 2025)
e. More details found on our website under “Building Options then “Ready to Move”. - Custom RTM Homes & Cottages
RTM Methodology typically helps us to control costs – it is also good for the environment (fuel savings and less waste) – but we can still provide unique custom plans.
a. Custom designed for and with you, these RTM projects require a longer timeline. Pricing includes RTM only. Move costs and site work not included. Site work could include but is not limited to mechanical systems, hook ups (power, gas, sewer, water), foundations and garages. Zak’s can complete as much or as little of the site work as you require.
b. Custom units tend to range between $180 and $280 per square foot for RTM only. (Jan 2025)
c. Site work price per square foot can range from $100 -$200+ depending on scope of work. (Jan 2025)
d. More details can be found on our website under “Building Options” then “Ready to Move”. - Site Built and Executive Homes & Cottages
Unlimited possibilities – customize to your heart’s content – from foundation type to size + shape + height. Partner with Zak’s award-winning team to make all your dreams come true!
a. Site builds have a greater degree of pricing variability due to the high number of different options, site requirements, distance and pricing factors. We have a smaller capacity for these projects due to the increased manpower required and you will see this reflected on the timeline of the build.
b. Budget pricing for this type of project is more difficult but can range from $450 per square foot and have been in excess of $600 per square foot. Site builds tend to result in approximately 20% higher project costs than a similar build completed with an RTM. (Jan 2025)
What are the advantages of building an RTM rather than building on site?
Several advantages include a shorter time frame, improved project management, cost efficiency and a worry-free environment.
- We can start building the RTM while your foundation is constructed.
- We have a Project Manager that oversees all the RTM construction to ensure the highest level of quality goes into your RTM. The Project Manager also lines up our trades so there is no down time.
- We strive to make the RTM building process as worry free as possible for you by letting us do the work.
- Cost savings – contractor time and fuel.
- Environmental benefits – less fuel/vehicle miles and less material waste.
What in-house resources does Zak’s have to help with a custom home build?
Zak’s can work with you in whatever capacity you need. We offer drafting and building services, have an onsite engineer, and run a full-service lumber yard. Our building divisions include Ready To Move (RTM) Homes & Cottages, Site Builds, Garages and Shops, Pole Buildings and Barns, Commercial Buildings, and Custom Cabinetry.
We are a custom builder and specialize in developing a plan that works for your lot, as well as your budget. Because we care about our customers first, there is no cost for the pre-sale phase! If you’re looking for inspiration, we invite you to browse our website gallery. You can find them on our website under “Homes & Cottages” then “Showcase”.
Can you build a Bardominium or Shouse?
Shop houses and Barndominiums are an increasingly popular building option. The two options have different prices and challenges since they have different priorities.
Shop houses tend to be sought out for their cost effectiveness and combination of living space with working space. If you are willing to keep them simple then you can often budget them in two components starting at:
- Residential portion – $210 per sq ft (Jan 2025)
- Shop portion — $80 per sq ft (Jan 2025)
Barndominiums tend to be sought after for their spacious grand designs with large open spaces and attached/covered decks/porches/outdoor living areas. These are almost always site builds and would be classified as Executive builds – therefore pricing would be quite different.
- Residential portion – starting at $400 per sq ft (Jan 2025)
- Shop portion – starting at $80 per sq ft (Jan 2025)
What is the process of building a home?
The Build Process is broken down into 3 parts:
- Pre-Sale – includes basic floorplan design, discussions around build complexity and materials. Customer is provided with an estimate.
- Design – initiated by signed estimate and deposit, this stage includes making all of the selections required for the project, completing blueprints, and finalizing all pricing.
- Construction – initiated by signing contract/approving selections & prints, this stage starts with procurement (ordering required materials) and followed by the actual build.
How long does it take to build a home?
Build timelines are determined by type of build (such as RTM vs Site), size and complexity of project, and location of project. RTM delivery dates involve multiple elements and as a result are always tentative. For scheduling and availability purposes Zak’s Building Group limits the number of projects each calendar year. The available slots are reserved in order of deposits received.
The Design and Construction stages typically take between 6 & 12 months – some more complex projects can take more time.
What does site preparation mean and am I responsible for it?
Zak’s is happy to do all your site work – a turn-key project – if you desire.
Unless otherwise stated in the signed contract, site preparation is the responsibility of the purchaser. This includes but is not limited to:
- The foundation must be ready for move date including back filling around the foundation.
- Beams, and Posts must be in place before the move date (extra charges will apply if done by Zak’s).
- The end of the basement to be used by the moving crew must be free of obstructions, such as: wells, septic and other services.
- Basement stair sets (material and installation).
- Septic and water services installation/hookups.
- On site electrical services/hookups.
What are my basement/foundation options for an RTM?
Options include:
- Crawl space*
- Full basement*
- Walk out*
A concrete slab is not an option.
*Wood (2×8 studs), concrete, or ICF block can be used on each type
How much is an RTM per square foot?
Our RTMs tend to range between $180 and $280 per square foot – plus taxes, moving and site work. Site work tends to start around $100 per square foot and go up from there. (Jan 2025)
Project budgets usually average between $300-$600 per square foot. (Jan 2025)
Why is there such a wide range in the pricing of residential projects? What drives price?
- Square footage
a. The bigger it is the more expensive it will be.
b. Include all finished square footage – but not basements. - Architectural Details
a. Types of trusses, height of walls, number and size of windows, number of bathrooms, number of stories and building shape.
b. Example: vaulted ceilings are more costly than flat ceilings. - Customer Selections
a. Fireplaces, stonework, type of siding, upgraded windows (black exterior), cabinetry and countertop details, custom built-ins, timbers/beams, etc. - Project Complexity
a. How many different components a project has: foundation type, basement finishing, garages, decks, landscaping/driveways, services, location etc.
What costs are involved in moving an RTM?
Delivery and move dates and costs vary due to multiple factors. This includes size of RTM, route and distance, line lifts (if applicable) and permitting. Budgetary costs are calculated at $40/km plus $5/square plus line lifts and permits (if applicable) plus GST.
Please note that customers should budget at least 2-3 months after RTM move for site and service work to be completed, prior to moving in. Moving in before the completion of site and service work can result in extra charges and/or void warranty.
Does Zak's have a preferred lender?
Affinity Credit Union has great RTM specific financing options, but we are willing to work with any lender.
ls my home insured? When do I need insurance?
Once the home/cottage is set on the foundation insurance becomes the responsibility of the purchaser.
l've made my deposit, now what?
- You will receive a supplemental contract outlining the payment structure.
- Standard payment structure
a. 10% deposit due upon acceptance of the contract.
b. The remaining balance is due at three different stages:
i. Framing (1/3 of total price including the move and taxes)
ii. Drywall (1/3 of total price including the move and taxes)
iii. Final balance (due prior to the move date) - We do realize that each situation is unique and if for any reason you need to discuss an alternate financing structure, please make an appointment with the Controller through your Salesperson.
When will my RTM arrive and what can cause the arrival date to change?
- Zak’s plans to deliver your home/cottage to your site approximately 6-8 months after you sign the RTM contract.
- We do our best to give you an approximate move date; however, several factors such as road bans, weather, and site conditions/readiness may contribute to scheduling changes.
- Nearing the end of the build, your salesperson will contact you regarding the move date and any changes.
Will the walls crack during the move?
The service department will repair and repaint as necessary once the RTM has been delivered as soon as is reasonably possible
When can I move in?
Typically move in date is 2-3 months after the RTM arrives on your site pending the completion of:
- On site plumbing/heating/electrical hook ups (Sask Power and Sask Energy).
- Zak’s service technician makes required repair/touch ups.
Warranty?
Each home we build comes with TWO (2) warranties.
- Zak’s in-house
a. Once the RTM is delivered to your site, Zak’s will send a service technician to do the final touch ups/move related repairs. Electricity and heat are required for this to be completed.
b. lt is the customer’s responsibility to notify Zak’s approximately one year after the move date of any required repairs.
c. Any damages from moving are also covered under this warranty and will be repaired as soon as reasonably possible. - Progressive New Home Warranty (what banks need for financing)
a. 1yr materials and labour
b. 2yr mechanical systems
c. 5yr foundation, water penetration
d. 10yr structural defect
How soon can I expect to hear back from the website ‘Request a Quote’ form fill?
Our sales team will respond as soon as possible with the goal of next business day.