New Builds Vs. Renovated Homes: Which Option Is Right For You?

We have often noticed people are confused about whether to build a new home or renovate an existing one. Both options have their unique advantages and challenges that can impact your living experience and investment potential. Today, this guide will help you make an informed decision as we will share a detailed differentiation between new builds and renovated homes.

Whether you want to build a new home from scratch or renovate an old property, A.G. Kerr Carpentry can help you with their highly skilled carpenters and construction professionals. Call us on  01342 822 750 or email us at info@agkerrcarpentry.co.uk for bespoke services.

House Remodelling Vs New Construction: A Detailed Comparison

1. Cost Comparison

Renovation Costs

Renovation costs depend heavily on the scope of the project. If you’re making minor changes, like updating a kitchen, bathroom or bedroom with wood carpentry, the costs will be much lower than making major structural improvements. Renovating older homes can also come with hidden costs.

Pros:

• Lower upfront costs: Minor renovations can be more affordable than building from scratch.
• Targeted improvements: You can focus your budget on upgrading specific areas that need attention.

Cons:

• Hidden costs: Older homes can have unforeseen issues like outdated wiring or plumbing that increase the budget.
• Cost per square metre: Typically, renovations of a three-bedroom home cost between £43,530 and £110,350, but unexpected repairs can add to this.

New Build Costs

New builds have a higher upfront cost but can offer more predictability regarding budgeting. You’ll have to consider the cost of land acquisition, legal fees, and building permits, but the actual construction costs are often more straightforward.

Pros:

• Predictable costs: Costs are easier to estimate with fewer unexpected issues as compared to renovations.
• Cost per square metre: Generally, new builds cost between £1,175 and £3,000 per square metre, depending on materials and finishes.

Cons:

• Higher initial investment: Building from scratch requires a larger initial outlay.
• Land acquisition: You’ll need to purchase land, which can add significantly to the overall cost.

2. Time And Convenience

Renovation Timelines

Renovations can vary from a few weeks for minor updates to several months for large projects. There’s also the inconvenience factor to consider—if you’re living in your home while it’s being renovated, it can be disruptive.

Pros:

• Faster for small projects: Minor updates can be completed in a few weeks.
• Retain your home: You won’t have to relocate during construction for smaller renovations.

Cons:

• Longer timelines for major projects: Larger renovations can take just as long as a new build, especially if structural work is involved.
• Living in a construction zone: It can be inconvenient and uncomfortable if you choose to stay in your home during renovations.

New Build Timelines

New builds often require more time, from securing planning permission to completing construction. A typical new build can take anywhere from 19 to 28 months.

Pros:

• Clear timeline: While longer overall, new builds follow a more predictable schedule.
• Avoid disruptions: You can stay in your current home or rent until your new home is ready.

Cons:

• Long planning phase: The planning, design, and permitting process can take months before construction begins.
• Potential delays: Weather, supply issues, and contractor availability can push back completion dates.

3. Design Flexibility

Renovation Design Flexibility

When you renovate, you’re limited by the existing structure. While you can make significant changes, such as adding extensions or reconfiguring rooms, you may face restrictions due to the home’s layout or age.

Pros:

• Preserve character: You can retain the charm and character of an older home while modernising it with wooden extensions.
• Targeted customisation: You can focus on areas you want to upgrade without overhauling the entire house.

Cons:

• Design limitations: Structural features like walls or support beams can limit your design options.
• Potential compromises: You might need to compromise on your vision due to existing constraints.

New Build Design Flexibility

A new build offers the ultimate flexibility. You have complete control over the design, from the layout to the finishes. You can incorporate modern features like open-plan layouts and energy-efficient systems without the limitations of an older structure.

Pros:

• Complete customisation: You can design every aspect of your home.
• Modern features: New homes can incorporate cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly materials from the outset.

Cons:

• Decision fatigue: The number of decisions you must make can be overwhelming.
• Higher costs for customisation: The more unique features you want, the higher the cost.

4. Energy Efficiency And Sustainability

Energy Efficiency In Renovated Homes

Older homes were not built with modern energy efficiency standards in mind, but during a renovation, you can retrofit energy-efficient features like double glazing, insulation, and modern heating systems.

Pros:

• Upgrade potential: With targeted upgrades, you can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.
• Sustainable home renovation: Using eco-friendly materials and improving insulation can reduce your home’s environmental impact.

Cons:

• Limited by structure: It can be difficult or costly to bring an older home up to modern energy efficiency standards.
• Higher initial cost: Energy-efficient upgrades, such as double glazing, can be expensive upfront.

Energy Efficiency In New Builds

New builds are generally much more energy-efficient by design. Modern homes must meet higher building standards, meaning better insulation, efficient heating, and reduced energy consumption.

Pros:

• Built-in efficiency: New builds incorporate energy-saving features like insulation, double glazing, and energy-efficient appliances.
• Long-term savings: The lower running costs of a new energy-efficient home can offset the higher initial investment over time.

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs: Incorporating sustainable features like solar panels or heat pumps can add to the overall cost of the build.

5. Long-Term Maintenance And Durability

Renovation Maintenance

Older homes generally require more maintenance, even after a renovation. While upgrading critical systems like plumbing and electrics can extend the home’s lifespan, other areas may still need regular upkeep.

Pros:

• Maintenance spread over time: You can address issues gradually, spreading the cost of upkeep.
• Extend the life of your home: Targeted repairs and updates can improve the longevity of older homes.

Cons:

• Higher long-term maintenance: Older homes are more likely to need frequent repairs, even with improvements.
• Ongoing costs: You may still face higher maintenance costs over the long term than a new build.

New Build Maintenance

New homes are built to modern standards, requiring less maintenance in future. Many carpentry service providers offer a warranty that covers repairs for several years.

Pros:

• Lower initial maintenance costs: new builds offer builder warranties covering repairs for the first few years.

Cons:

• Potential issues with new builds: While rare, some new builds may experience teething problems, such as settling or minor structural issues.

Final Thoughts

Deciding between a new home and a renovated home depends on your priorities, budget, and vision for your future home.

Ultimately, both options can lead to a beautiful home that suits your needs, but the right choice will depend on what matters most to you. And if you still need clarification, call A.G. Kerr Carpentry, the reliable carpenters in Kent, on  01342 822 750 or email us at info@agkerrcarpentry.co.uk for the best advice and services.