Frequently Asked Questions
My site is not remote or on an island — is an Island Cottage appropriate for me?
Absolutely! An Island Cottage is an energy-efficient, four-season, low-maintenance choice for a retirement, vacation or primary home anywhere.
Do you install Island Cottages outside of Maine?
Yes, our pre-built, panelized system is designed to be highly transportable over land or water.
How much can I expect an Island Cottage to cost?
Your Island Cottage investment will be in the range of $320,000-$400,000, depending on interior components, and exterior structures such as porches and decks. This range is exclusive of site work and foundation.
Does a completed Island Cottage include the heating system, electrical, plumbing, fixtures, partitions, cabinets, doors, hardware, etc.?
Yes, it includes these components, above the plates, within our standard allowances.
Can I change the size of my cottage?
Yes, though our standard cottage is 24 x 33', we can increase the length of your Island Cottage.
Can I choose from different floor plans?
Absolutely! With our unique, interactive design process, you work one-on-one with our designers over the Internet to customize your Island Cottage based on your individual needs & desires. The process allows you to place the rooms, doors and windows to take advantage of your site’s views, and to also view your interior and exterior finish choices, and even plan your furniture.
Who is responsible for the site work and foundation?
You are responsible for hiring a contractor for site work and foundation prior to Island Cottage installation. However, we will provide specifications and in some locations we may be able to recommend specific contractors.
Can we use our own building contractor?
At Island Cottage, we do the initial week-long installation of your cottage, but for site preparation and final buttoning-up — absolutely, yes, we would be happy to work with your contractor.
Can I purchase an unfinished Island Cottage — perhaps a basic shell that I could finish myself?
Unfortunately not at this time.
Can I add a porch, deck, garage, etc.?
Probably, but it depends on your individual site and its characteristics.
I have an existing old structure in bad shape — it probably makes more sense to tear it down and start new. Can I put an Island Cottage in its place?
Probably, but you would first need to research your local municipality’s ordinances before proceeding.
I don’t have my own site but am interested in purchasing an Island Cottage on its own site. Anything affordable?
Not currently, but we are always looking for possible locations on which to build, and will post any available Island Cottages for sale on our website.
I have a large chunk of land, but not a lot of money — can I get an Island Cottage?
Let’s talk — we are always interested in creative financing scenarios.
What is the biggest advantage of an Island Cottage?
We feel it's simple, for three reasons:
1) The highest quality construction.
2) Unique, interactive design process to customize your cottage.
3) Delivered to any site and installed in one week.
