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Renovate or Rebuild?

5 Tips To Help You Decide

To rebuild or to renovate?

It’s a tricky decision, but in the end, you want the option that’s going to deliver the best results in the most cost effective way. We’ve rounded up 5 factors you should consider before you break ground (literally).

Couple Looking At Building Plans

Timeline: What works best for your schedule?

The amount of time it takes to renovate or rebuild varies based on what you’re doing, how many contractors are involved, and your project planning. Depending on the architecture involved, sometimes a rebuild can even be faster than a large-scale renovation.

Before you commit to either, ask yourself: 

  • If there is a set time or life event I want the project to be completed by? (For instance, do you want it done by Christmas time or before the kids are on school holidays?)
  • If I rebuild, is there somewhere I can live for a (super) flexible amount of time?
  • Will I be impacted if there are delays?
Couple Looking At Building Plans

Timeline considerations

Some rough guidelines to keep in mind when thinking about timelines:

  1. Projects always take longer than you predict – things out of your control (like the weather) can affect when tasks can get done.
  2. Forty-two weeks is a pretty standard timeline for a knockdown rebuild of a standard family home in Sydney (but this will vary according to the size).
  3. Any ‘unique’ or specific features will always take longer than basic, off-the-plan.

In an ideal world, every project would run according to a predetermined schedule – but building projects take time. There are nearly always some unforeseen problems to solve or delays that pop up, so factor that into your timeline planning. 

Man in kitchen looking at laptop

Budget: What will get you the biggest return for your dollar

Money is always of the essence, and you want to ensure you’re taking your dollar as far as it can go. At face value, it seems like a renovation project is cheaper than a rebuild but that’s not always the case.

Work out:

  1. Is it cheaper to knock it down and start again? If there are structural issues, it can be. Get an assessment or report done to find out.
  2. Which are the biggest expenses for both options and what’s a rough estimate on how much they’ll cost? For instance, are you knocking down walls or redoing floors? Estimate before you commit.
  3. What will appreciate the best in terms of value and improve resale? It’s always a wise idea when it comes to property to consider the bigger, future picture.
Mother and child in beautiful kitchen

Sentimental value: Could you say goodbye?

Home is where the heart is – our homes are where we spend our time and our lives, they’re built full of memories.

If you’ve lived in your home a long time or had some significant moments happen while you’ve lived there (like new additions to the family!), would you be able to get rid of some aspects of your home?

If the answer is ‘yes’, say “arrivederci!” and away you go! But if it’s ‘no’, maybe a renovation where you can keep key sentimental features is a better option for you.

Woman sitting in sun lit room looking at laptop

Structure: Would your home be healthier for it?

The best home is a healthy home. Get a full inspection before you make the decision to make sure you don’t have issues like:

  • concrete cancer,
  • water damage,
  • mould,
  • plumbing problems,
  • weak foundations
  • and timber rot

If you do, it may be better for the health of your home (and bank account) if you rebuild and start again. 

Couple and builder looking at building plans

Space & location: Is it being maximised?

As we all know: you buy the worst house in the best street, not the best house in the worst street. Why? Because location is everything. And space, particularly in metro areas, is a luxury and should be maximised whether you have a lot or a little. 

When thinking about making the most of your space and location, think about:

  1. Natural light – are you taking advantage of your location, including the direction your house or land faces?
  2. Views or surroundings – does your balcony currently face the neighbours rather than the lovely park on the other side? Maybe rethink.
  3. Wasted space – is there wasted space? Can you design effectively so that all the space is maximised both inside and out, e.g. turning empty spaces into storage or creating an outdoor entertainment area?
  4. Best features – what are the best elements of your block or your location? Are they being harnessed?

If your home is in your dream location, but it doesn’t feel like it’s meeting your needs, using its space and location effectively, or you regularly find yourself thinking “if only…” then we predict a rebuild in your future.

Couple and store assistant in Clipsal showroom looking at Clipsal light switch range

Bring your home to life with Clipsal

No matter whether you decide to renovate your existing home or opt to build your dream home, Clipsal has all of your electrical options covered. We have the largest range of switches and power points to make your home electrical suit your interior style, plus an extensive range of products that make your life easier and support the way you and your family live in your home.

But its our home electrical safety solutions which you should not be overlooked. Ensuring you have the very best safety and protection should be your number 1 priority. Our safety solutions are designed to help protect not only your home but more importantly your family.

Explore how Clipsal innovative electrical and smart home solutions can help bring your home to life, visit clipsal.com