New Build vs. Renovation: Which is Better for You?
Our Austin Architects Examine the Pros and Cons of Building a New House vs. Renovating an Existing Home
Is it better to build a new construction home from scratch or remodel an existing residence? That’s the new build vs. renovation challenge! You have two main options when creating your dream home: start with a clean slate or personalize an existing structure. Each comes with its own set of pros and cons. The right choice will come down to what you value most in a home and how you’d like to work through the architectural design process. To help you navigate the decision, our Austin architects outline the pros and cons of building a new house or renovating an existing home.
New Build vs. Renovation: What’s the Difference?
The difference between a new build vs. a renovation project is pretty clear. A new construction home is built from the ground up. The only limitations on the design are the building site, city codes, and budget. On the other hand, a renovation project works within the confines of an existing structure. A remodel could be as small as changing one room or as large as taking the house down to the studs, reconfiguring the layout, and even adding a second story. While you can make many changes in a gut renovation, the project is still limited by what was already there. In some cases, it’s even more cost-effective to tear down and build new.
What to Expect During a New Build Project
You’ll start a new build project by first selecting your site. This could be a vacant lot or a property you intend to tear down. From there, you’ll plan your home design with your architect. You’ll work as a team to define your architectural style and determine your must-haves. Then, contractors will bid on the project and price out construction. Typically, pricing a new build is easier than a renovation because there aren’t many hidden surprises. Finally, construction will commence, and you’ll move in upon completion.
Check out our tips for building your first house.
What to Expect During a Renovation
A renovation project starts with deciding to remodel your current home or purchasing a property you’d like to reimagine. Like a new build, you’ll work with an architect to design the plans. However, the process is a little different. Instead of developing a plan from scratch that fits your lifestyle, your architect will look at what works and what doesn’t in the existing space and share options based on what’s possible to change. Depending on the scope of the remodel, you will also want to determine if you’d like to do it in phases or live in the home through the process. Renovation pricing is a little more complicated, as you must plan for hidden surprises. These could include termite damage, poor framing, old pipes, or required electrical upgrades. Plan for the unexpected and reserve a contingency budget to cover incidental expenses. While renovation construction can be daunting, you’ll see the home change before your eyes and be able to appreciate the transformation once it is complete. It’s a very rewarding feeling!
Check out our tips for planning your first remodel.
Is It More Cost Effective to Build New or Renovate?
There is no one-size-fits-all budget for new construction or renovation projects. Renovating is often more cost-effective, especially for well-designed homes only requiring smaller projects, like a kitchen or bathroom remodel. However, an extensive gut renovation on a historic home could easily be more expensive than a small new construction spec house. Work with an experienced architect who can help balance your needs with your budget.
Is It Faster to Build New or Renovate?
Again, timelines for new builds and renovations depend on the project's scope and outside factors such as material sourcing and contractor scheduling. On average, the timeline is anywhere from 12 to 24 months for a new construction home, 6 to 12 months for a full-home renovation, and 4 to 6 months for a single-room remodel. Use these as a guide, but remember specialty orders, period restorations, and other factors can impact the timeline.
Is It Easier to Design a New Construction Home or Plan a Renovation?
To get a space custom-tailored to your needs and lifestyle, it is easier to design a new construction home from scratch. However, it’s not always possible to recreate the historic charm of an older home, and it can be challenging to bring that character to a new build. Determine the factors that are most important to you, including location, space, amenities, style, and custom detailing. Then, work with a trusted architect who can help you get the most out of your home design — no matter which route you choose.
New Build Pros and Cons
Pros
More control over design
Easier to price & fewer construction surprises
More energy-efficient & lower maintenance than older home
Cons
Lacks historic charm
Potential location compromise for available land
Added expense of clearing land and utility permits
Renovation Pros and Cons
Pros
Preserve historic charm
Can remodel your current home and keep preferred location
Often smaller scope and less expensive than a new build (no need for land purchase & utility permits)
Cons
Work within design limitations (lot size, existing structure)
Secrets revealed in the walls could lead to unexpected costs and extended timelines
Must relocate during construction (we do not recommend living through a renovation)
Should You Build New or Renovate?
So, should you build new or renovate? The choice is yours! A new build is an excellent option for ensuring you get everything you want and limiting unexpected surprises during construction. While renovations allow you to either keep your current location or preserve the historic charm you love. No matter which route you decide, enlist the help of an architect to help maximize your design and get everything you want from your new dream home.
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