Picture this: You’re standing in front of your home, a property you’ve loved for years. But now, it’s showing its age. 

The layout doesn’t quite fit your lifestyle anymore, and you find yourself dreaming of modern amenities and energy-efficient features. 

You’re at a crossroads – should you renovate your existing home or opt for a knockdown rebuild?

At Clifford Built, we’ve guided countless homeowners through this very decision. 

Let’s walk through the journey together, weighing the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best choice for your unique situation.

The Renovation Route: Breathing New Life into Your Existing Home

Renovation is like giving your home a new lease on life. It’s a chance to keep the memories and character of your current space while updating it to meet your evolving needs.

Renovation can be an excellent choice if:

  • You’re emotionally attached to your current home
  • The existing structure is fundamentally sound
  • You’re looking for a potentially quicker and less disruptive option
  • Your desired changes are relatively moderate

However, renovation isn’t without its challenges. Unexpected issues can crop up once walls start coming down, potentially leading to budget overruns. 

And while you can certainly improve energy efficiency through renovation, you’re still somewhat limited by the existing structure.

The Knockdown Rebuild: A Blank Canvas for Your Dream Home

Now, let’s consider the knockdown rebuild option. Imagine having a blank canvas to create exactly what you want, tailored perfectly to your lifestyle.

A knockdown rebuild might be your best bet if:

  • Your current home has significant structural issues
  • You want complete freedom in design and layout
  • You’re after the latest in energy efficiency and smart home technology
  • You’re willing to temporarily relocate during the build

The main drawbacks? 

It generally takes longer than a renovation, and you’ll need to find alternative accommodation for the duration of the project.

Crunching the Numbers

Now, let’s talk costs. While every project is unique, here’s a general idea:

  • High-end renovations typically run between $2,000 to $4,000 per square metre.
  • Custom new builds usually fall in the $3,000 to $5,000 per square metre range.

Remember, renovation costs can quickly escalate if unforeseen issues arise, while new build costs tend to be more predictable.

The Timeline and Your Living Arrangements

Timeframes vary, but here’s what you can typically expect:

  • Renovations usually take 3-9 months, and you might be able to live in part of your home during the process.
  • A knockdown rebuild generally takes 8-14 months from demolition to completion, and you’ll need to move out for the entire duration.

The Energy Efficiency Factor

Both options allow for improvements in energy efficiency, but a knockdown rebuild offers more comprehensive opportunities. With a new build, you can incorporate state-of-the-art systems from the ground up, optimising everything from the home’s orientation to its insulation, windows, and smart home features.

 

Ultimately, the choice between renovation and knockdown rebuild comes down to your unique circumstances. Consider your budget, timeline, desired outcome, and emotional attachment to your current home.

At Clifford Built, we’re here to help you navigate this significant decision. 

We’ll work closely with you to understand your needs, assess your property, and guide you towards the option that best aligns with your vision for your ideal home.

Ready to take the next step? 

Let’s start a conversation about transforming your property into the home of your dreams – whether that means breathing new life into your existing space or creating something entirely new.