Managing the construction of your own home can sound appealing. Many homeowners wonder if cutting out the general contractor could lead to significant savings. After all, you’d be eliminating the “middleman” and taking control of the budget, hiring, and scheduling. But the reality is more complicated. While it’s possible to save some money by being your own contractor, the risks often outweigh the rewards. In Omaha, NE, where new builds are rising in popularity, partnering with the Best New Builds Contractor in Omaha often proves to be the smarter financial and practical choice.

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What Does a General Contractor Do?

A general contractor (GC) oversees the entire construction project. Their responsibilities include:

• Hiring subcontractors.
• Obtaining permits and ensuring code compliance.
• Scheduling and managing workflow.
• Ordering and coordinating materials.
• Handling inspections and quality control.
• Managing budgets and timelines.

Essentially, the contractor acts as the project manager and problem solver, ensuring every piece of the construction puzzle fits together.

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Potential Savings from Being Your Own Contractor

Yes, you might save 10%–20% on labor and management costs by eliminating the GC’s fee. These savings could amount to tens of thousands of dollars on a large project.

For example:

• On a $400,000 build, potential GC fees could range from $40,000–$80,000.
• Acting as your own contractor could mean keeping that money in your pocket.

But the key question is: At what cost?

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Hidden Costs of Being Your Own Contractor

1. Time Investment – Acting as your own contractor requires 40+ hours a week of coordination.
2. Inexperience – Mistakes can lead to costly delays or failed inspections.
3. Higher Subcontractor Rates – Subcontractors often charge individuals more than contractors with established relationships.
4. Material Markups – Contractors usually get bulk discounts that homeowners can’t access.
5. Risk of Code Violations – Missing a permit or inspection can halt progress.
6. Liability – Without a GC, you’re responsible for worker injuries or property damage.

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Benefits of Hiring a Professional Contractor

• Efficiency: Professionals know how to avoid delays.
• Expertise: Contractors handle unexpected problems quickly.
• Network: Access to trusted subcontractors at lower rates.
• Buying Power: Discounts on materials and finishes.
• Peace of Mind: Less stress for homeowners.

This is why hiring the Best New Builds Contractor in Omaha often ends up saving more in the long run, even if initial costs appear higher.

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Real-Life Example from Omaha, NE

Imagine you’re building a 3,000-square-foot home in Omaha. You estimate $400,000 without a GC. By taking on the contractor role yourself, you expect to save $50,000.

But during construction:

• A permit issue delays your project by two months, costing $10,000 in interest.
• A subcontractor overcharges $15,000 due to lack of a professional relationship.
• Material costs run $8,000 higher without bulk discounts.
• A failed inspection forces $12,000 in rework.

Your total “savings” now shrink to just $5,000 — and you’ve worked countless stressful hours.

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Risks of DIY Contracting

• Legal Issues: Mistakes in contracts with subcontractors may leave you liable.
• Insurance Gaps: You may lack coverage that a contractor normally provides.
• Timeline Stress: Projects often run over schedule without professional coordination.
• Quality Concerns: Without an experienced eye, you risk lower construction quality.

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When It Might Make Sense

• If you have prior construction management experience.
• If it’s a very small project (like a shed or simple remodel).
• If you’re willing to invest significant personal time.

For full home builds, though, the risks often outweigh the potential savings.

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Why Omaha Homeowners Choose Professionals

Homeowners in Omaha know the importance of working with professionals. The region’s growth, weather conditions, and building codes make local expertise essential. The Best New Builds Contractor in Omaha offers the skill, network, and peace of mind that DIY management simply can’t match.

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10 FAQs About Being Your Own Contractor

1. Can I really save money by being my own contractor?
Yes, but savings are often offset by mistakes, delays, and higher subcontractor costs.

2. How much does a general contractor charge?
Typically 10%–20% of the total project cost.

3. What skills do I need to act as my own contractor?
Strong project management, knowledge of codes, negotiation skills, and construction experience.

4. Can I legally be my own contractor in Omaha?
Yes, but you must obtain permits and assume liability for the project.

5. What are the biggest risks?
Delays, cost overruns, failed inspections, and liability for worker injuries.

6. Do subcontractors prefer working with contractors?
Yes, they often prioritize established relationships and may charge individuals more.

7. Can I hire a consultant instead of a contractor?
Yes, some homeowners hire consultants for oversight, but it still leaves most responsibility with you.

8. What projects are best suited for DIY contracting?
Small remodels or cosmetic projects, not full home builds.

9. Does hiring the Best New Builds Contractor in Omaha guarantee savings?
It ensures fewer mistakes, better quality, and often long-term cost efficiency.

10. What’s the best advice for new homeowners in Omaha?
Evaluate your skills honestly. For most, hiring a professional contractor is the smarter, safer investment.

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