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Pricing and how to buy
Because they're the most flexible of the prefabricated buildings, it's hard to give specific prices for modular buildings. The cost per square foot is almost always less than the cost of a comparable building with traditional construction, but that cost can range from as little as $20/sf to as much as $150/sf or more. If you buy a used building, costs are far less, but you won't be able to customize it as fully.
Interior finishing is the most variable part of pricing modular buildings. Your choice of walls, floors, carpets, wiring, and HVAC can account for 75% of the cost of the building. Take a balanced approach: avoid the "luxuries," but be sure the building will be comfortable and attractive for your employees and customers.
Buildings under 1000 square feet can cost as little as $10,000 used, or $30,000 to $50,000 and up new. Larger, fully built-out custom modular buildings can easily reach $150,000 or $200,000 – quite an investment, but still far less than it would cost to build a new building from scratch.
Prices are fairly similar whether you buy from a modular building broker or directly from a manufacturer. Brokers can sometimes get price breaks from the manufacturers because they buy in bulk; buying direct cuts out the middleman. Take the time to compare several offers to see which is the best value for your business.
Who's going to build it?
Buying and erecting a modular building can involve several different suppliers and contractors – or just one. If you work with a broker, they can often connect you with the contractors you'll need to preparing the site, connecting utilities, and doing other finish work that will make your building a success.
If you buy your building from a manufacturer, you'll probably have to find your own contractors. Often, the manufacturer will send a team to do some of the installation work, but you'll need to have a foundation and other site prep work done before the building arrives.
No matter who you work with, make sure the exact responsibilities are outlined in advance. Contracts should specify all aspects of the job and who's responsible for each one, as well as which are to be handled by subcontractors.