One of the most crucial questions you would ask yourself is that when dealing with 3D printing technology is whether 3D printing is worth investing in? 3D printing technology is a worthy investment if you take your time to learn the process well and act on the information. If you have a good plan, you can save quite a lot as well as make money through 3D printing technology.
3D housing is a worthy investment that is going to change the real estate industry in the near future. 3D houses are expected to last almost the same as conventional concrete houses. It is considered a more environmentally friendly choice within the construction industry. For more on this check out our post Are 3D Printed Houses / Structures Sustainable?
The construction industry has generally changed with the emergence of 3D printing technology. The 3D printing construction technology is today promising to build houses cheaper, more accurately, and faster with fewer people. Certain 3D printing construction materials have also been said to be stronger and last longer compared to traditional building materials.
It is out of these benefits that 3D printing construction has gained momentum on very positive growth. In fact, the universal construction robot market is projected to grow by approximately 20% within the next five years (from 2022 to 2027). With this growth, you may ask yourself who is constructing these buildings, and who are the buyers? Let us have a look at how to invest in 3D printed houses.
On a side note! If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality 3D printer, we highly recommend the Official Creality Ender 3 V2 Upgraded 3D Printer (Amazon Link).
This printer is an upgraded version of the popular Ender 3 model, with a range of new features and improvements that make it even easier and more convenient to use.
Some people are still skeptical about the viability of investing in 3D printed houses however, with every new project, this opinion does not hold water. 3D printing construction firms are in the spotlight today as, project developers, clients, and engineers try to understand this new technology.
So far, we do not have universal standards around the material and methods used as innovations emerge from a vast range of global players. In as much as most local building codes do not have provision for 3D printed homes, however, this is quickly changing.
1- Purchasing a 3D Printed House
The housing industry market has been white-hot! Most real estate experts predict that it will remain hot, with the continuation of high market demand and low supply. This clearly gives good indicators to invest in this industry.
The strain on the housing industry has led to renewed interest in 3D-printed houses. A 3D printed house is increasingly becoming a potential way to quickly construct and own affordable housing. Let us take a look at how to best invest in 3D-printed houses.
How Can You Purchase a 3D Printed House?
For now, 3D printed housing market is opening slowly. Most 3D printed houses available in the market are located in less densely populated areas like the west coast areas of the U.S. however, this is shifting with the increasing demand and more construction firms adopting 3D printing technology.
It is advisable that you ask your Local Realtor about the current availability of 3D printed houses since they are more well-informed on houses availability in the market within your area and can always advise you on when and where to invest.
What to check on if you intend to buy a 3D printed house
Real estate experts have recommended that an investor within this industry should never forgo an inspection exercise, even for new houses. This applies to 3D-printed houses too. Even if the 3D printed home has been printed perfectly, most of the interior materials such as cabinets, sinks, etc. may have installation mistakes or gaps.
Here are some of the common issues with new 3D printed houses, investors need to be keen on:
- Plumbing issues – leaks, hot/cold water reversals
- Improperly installed appliances
- Faulty electric work – damaged or improper wiring
- Shrinkage cracks as a result of concrete that has not been mixed properly.
- HVAC issues such as dirty ducts, malfunctioning thermostats, or loss of connection
- Grading/drainage issues – Your 3D printed house could be printed properly, but its printed could be shifting a lot.
On a side note, also check out “Can You Make a 3D Printed House out Of Clay?“
House inspection is a vital exercise for 3D printed houses because very little will be covered on the disclosure statement, which only covers known defects. The disclosure statement doesn’t require the seller to investigate for unknown defects, which are likely to remain unnoticed until you occupy the house. (Source)
There are no regulations involved in getting 3D printed houses approved for occupancy for now
This means that there are no set standards to be followed for things like public safety codes, plumbing, and structural integrity. For this reason, it is advisable that you do a background check on the company producing your 3D printed house to ensure they have the necessary engineering background. (Source)
When purchasing 3D printed houses, your best bet should involve working with experienced real estate agents, who are capable of vetting signs of quality 3D houses workmanship. Also, they may be familiar with the engineer’s reputation among history buyers, which can help you make informed decisions.
Will the Global Market Accept 3D Printed Houses?
The U.S. is apparently stuck in a prolonged seller’s market as a result of many market forces. New home construction firms are still not producing new houses fast enough to face the aging housing stock. With the constant labor shortage within the construction industry and the growing U.S. population, there is the likelihood that investment in 3D printed real estate market will remain very competitive.
3D printed houses can be an opportunity to become homeowners without pulling too much of your income into this investment. However, there are still a few limitations. One key limitation of 3D printing within the construction industry is that it’s most suited for areas with plenty of land.
At the moment, it’s not possible to 3D print skyscrapers. Therefore, 3D printed houses will not be very much applicable in most city centers with a high density of buildings and people.
Before you buy a 3D printed house, make sure to check out our list of 3D Printed House Advantages and Disadvantages
2- Buy 3D Printing ETF Stock
It’s probably the easiest way to get exposure to the 3d printing industry without having to put so much of your time ( the most passive way of investing in 3d printing). The ticker simple is ‘PRNT’, however, as of this writing, ‘PRNT’ does not hold companies that operate in 3d printed structures but will likely have to include them in the future as the market grows.
3- Start a 3D printing Contracting & Consulting Company
You can also opt to buy your own 3D printer to print your own home and offer your services to others. The cheapest home 3D printer in the market is sold at 35,000 USD, but this excludes many hidden costs. For more on this, check out our post Can I Build My Own 3D Printed House? Hidden Costs & Prices of Construction 3D Printers!
Currently, there is a very limited number of contractors, which could highly benefit early adopters by accessing growing untapped market space.
For more on 3D printing houses process, check out our post How 3D Printed Houses Are Made? Steps & Materials Used!
Final Thoughts
3D printing technology slowly making inroads in the construction and real estates’ industry through the global economy by localizing and speeding the delivery time and reducing the production cost. However, just like with other technology investments, gaining inroads will not be a straight curve.
Expect ups and downs in these stocks as the technology progresses with new inventions every day. If you decide to invest in 3D printed houses, do it in a measured way. Maintain a diversified portfolio.
