3000 sq ft house costs: a realistic UK budget

Ever wondered what building a 3000 sq ft home actually costs? It’s easy to get lost in vague figures and online calculators. Below is a straight‑to‑the‑point breakdown that shows where the money goes, so you can plan without surprises.

Major cost categories

Land and site work – In most parts of England, buying a suitable plot for a 3000 sq ft build runs between £150,000 and £250,000. If the ground is uneven or needs drainage, add another £10‑£20k for earthworks and tree removal.

Foundation and structure – A solid slab or crawl‑space foundation typically costs £80‑£120 per square metre. For 3000 sq ft (about 279 sqm) that’s roughly £22k‑£34k. Brick or block walls, roof trusses and timber frames bring the structural total to about £70k‑£100k.

Exterior finishes – Roofing, windows, doors and external cladding vary widely. A decent pitched roof with quality tiles is around £12k‑£18k. Double‑glazed windows for the whole house add close to £15k. Expect £30k‑£45k for all exterior work.

Interior fit‑out – This is where your personal taste spikes the budget. Basic plasterboard and plaster finish can be done for £15k‑£20k. Kitchen and bathrooms are big drivers: a mid‑range kitchen costs £12k‑£20k, while each bathroom can range from £6k to £12k depending on fixtures.

Flooring – Good flooring not only looks great but adds value. At First Choice Flooring Solutions we recommend budgeting £30‑£50 per sqm for engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl plank. For a 3000 sq ft home that’s roughly £9k‑£15k, plus installation fees.

Additional expenses to watch

Don’t forget services and utilities. Connecting to water, gas, electricity and sewer can cost £8k‑£12k. Planning and professional fees – architect, structural engineer and building control approvals typically take 5‑10% of the total build cost, so set aside £15k‑£25k.

Contingency is a must. Unexpected ground conditions, price hikes in materials or design changes can eat into your budget fast. A 10% contingency on the whole project (around £20k‑£30k) gives you a safety net.

Putting it all together, a typical 3000 sq ft house in the UK ends up between £275,000 and £420,000 before interiors are fully finished. Add high‑end kitchen, luxury bathroom fixtures or premium flooring and you can easily cross the £500k mark.

Knowing where each pound goes helps you make smarter choices. If you’re already thinking about flooring, talk to a specialist early – the right product can save money on underlay and ensure a smooth installation. First Choice Flooring Solutions offers free quotes and can match your design style while staying within budget.

Bottom line: a 3000 sq ft home isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all price. Break the project into clear sections, keep a contingency, and prioritize the finishes that matter most to you. With the right plan, you’ll avoid nasty surprises and end up with a house that feels just right for your family.