I want to chime in on this. Commercial construction is part of what I do. Typically, in most areas of the country, here in the USA, a commercial building is NOT cheaper to build. Obviously, costs vary depending on the geographic area. But here is a quick example: (stay with me for a minute)
Your average 3 bedroom home in an average income city may cost approx $100.00 per square foot to build. Materials and labor. In the same market, a small commercial building of the same size will cost approx $130.00 per square foot. Materials and labor.
Take away free labor, and your costs will have essentially the same percentage of difference, about 30%. However, here is a big difference. The quality and type of construction on the commercial project (esentially a small storefront) dictates and entirely different skillset. The types of buildings they are wanting to build are not a-typical of your average residential builder (ie. JW Volunteers). Now, a whole new type of volunteer is needed (hence the new letter outlining the "new" applications needed). Sorry mom, dad, and kids, we dont need you anymore. We need "commercial contractor" types. More and more outsourcing will be required to meet the parameters of the designs.
All of this begs another question... how will these buildings fit in with surroundings? Look at your local KH.... it is probably built in a residential area, and probably built to mimic the local "look" of a residence, and not stand out and look gaudy. ( I recall one area we lived, the locals would only allow a new KH to be built if it matched the general "feel" of the surrounding areas... in the end, it looks like a barn! Big fake barn doors and all! A very nice barn, mind you, and you would never know it was a KH if you didnt see the small sign off to the side). Some have even been resold at some point and turned into homes, or small business offices that blend in well with the community.
Ok, so now we have an all glass and stone/concrete/stucco building. How in the world is that going to blend in in a neighborhood without looking like a fish out of water?. Answer: it wont. Your KH that works just fine, and blends in just fine, and appears "homey" and "warm" will be sold.
Sorry for your loss, now lets move on. Your amazing fabulous modern new KH will need to be relocated to a new piece of property that is zoned for either 1. small commercial, or 2. mixed use. No more residential areas. The new property costs more per sq ft than a residential area. It just does, thats the way things work.
I know, I know.... its supposed to be 20% cheaper, right!!!??
Well, of course it is....if you look at it this way:
When it comes time to RESELL the pretty little thing, it will bring more PROFIT than the old Hardi-sided, shingle-roofed, KH in the middle of the subdivision.
Evidently, more end PROFIT, translates into LESS COST, on paper. Therefore, no matter what you hear, there is more to the story. Apparently, Jah likes to play with numbers to make more money!
Anyone feel like you were just at the used car dealership ???
Jack Harper, (Tech49)