Trying to decide between building a brand new home or renovating the one you’re in can be be a tough call. Both processes can be equal parts hassle and reward, so there is much to consider when determining which is the best choice for you and your family.
Functionality
One of the most common reasons people move is because their home just doesn’t function for them the way they want it to. Space is too cramped for a growing family, or perhaps much of it is going unused now that you’re empty nesting! Flow is not good when entertaining or you just can’t comfortably accommodate a work-from-home situation.
Many existing house plans offer common-sense options for adding on mudrooms, home offices or even separate guest quarters, and creative modifications to existing floor plans can give closed-off areas a more open-concept feel.
When they don’t, it’s often better to start from scratch. Working with a custom home builder allows you complete control over every aspect of your home’s floor plan, finishes and functionality. You get everything you want and settle for nothing.
Location, Location, Location
If you already love where you live, it might be hard to think about leaving, so it makes sense to consider whether updating your current home will make it more livable. Renovating allows you to maximize your home’s potential without sacrificing its location.
However, if your current spot leaves something to be desired in terms of view, surroundings or proximity to your favorite people and places, no amount of updating will make that right. Building on your own lot allows you to not only design the perfect home for your family’s lifestyle, but to decide exactly where it will sit.
Smart Devices and Energy Efficiency
Depending on the age of your home, it may lack the automation and efficiency available in newer ones. While almost any house can be converted into a smart house with the addition of smart appliances, thermostats, lighting, locks and cameras, improving energy efficiency is often more challenging.
Areas to consider upgrading include attic insulation, window and door replacement, and new HVAC ductwork. These things can be expensive while doing little to add to the home’s aesthetic, but they can offer modern conveniences and dramatically lower utility bills.
Newer builds meet stricter guidelines for energy efficiency and desired upgrades to industry standards can be added in the beginning.
Maintenance
It stands to reason that the older the home, the more maintenance that’s required. Roofs, AC units and siding can be costly to replace, and its never what you want to spend your money on. However, maintenance is part of home ownership, and if you love where you live, it goes with the territory. Updating these things not only improves the look of your home, it can prevent damage and rot while adding to your home’s resale value should you decide to list it.
On the flip side, building a new home means much of that maintenance will be postponed for later years thanks to improved building practices and new home warranties.
There are challenges and rewards to both the renovation and new-build process, and the decision comes down to which will better meet your family’s needs in the end.
Flenn Custom Home & Remodeling believes that your home is the backdrop where the memories of your life are created. One of our custom home professionals would be happy to consult with you to help you determine if your home can be satisfactorily updated or if something else would better meet your needs.
Whether you’re looking to build your dream home or remodel your existing home, we’re there to make your dream a reality.