Building
23-08-2024

The Hidden Costs of a Knock Down Rebuild

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When it comes to building a new home with Eden Brae, there are a number of options. You can build your new home on a new block of land, take advantage of convenient house and land packages, or complete a knock down rebuild to end up with a spectacular new home on your existing block. A knock down rebuild makes sense if you crave the finishings and features of a new house with the familiarity of nearby amenities to your current property. 

However, there are some associated hidden costs of a knock down rebuild that you should be aware of before you decide to demolish your current property. We’ve prepared a list of these expenses below to prepare you for the process and ensure you nail your knock down rebuild.

What are the Hidden Costs of a Knock Down and Rebuild?

The cost of knocking down and rebuilding a house can vary greatly depending on a number of different factors, which may or may not be inside your control. These factors can make a knock down rebuild costlier than a renovation of an existing property or building a new house on a vacant block, but they could be worth it if you want to retain the familiarity of your current neighbourhood. Taking into account the following expenses can help you adequately calculate the cost of a knock down rebuild on your current block. 

  • Temporary accommodation: Unless you have a generous family member or friend who is willing to let you move in with them while the knock down rebuild takes place, temporary housing will add to the cost of the process. Remember that your temporary home may not have room for all your belongings, so factor in renting storage space for additional items.
  • Site preparation costs: While the demolition of your existing home can be roughly quoted for, preparing the site can raise a number of unexpected issues. If traces of asbestos are found in your existing home, for example, organising for its safe removal and disposal will add extra expense to the process.
  • Permits and approvals: Before you can begin the process of knocking down and rebuilding your home, you need to obtain the required building permits from and have your house plans approved by your local council. Each round of submissions adds to the cost of a knock down rebuild. 
  • Unexpected site issues: Whether it’s poor quality soil or obstructions from underground pipework, issues with your current block quickly add to the hidden costs of a knock down rebuild.
  • Design variations: If at some point during the process you change your mind on a particular feature, the home builder can generally accommodate the request – at a cost. These additional costs of a knock down and rebuild can quickly add up, particularly if they represent major design changes that require council approval.
  • Delayed approvals: Delays in council approvals and final sign off increase the amount of time you need to rent your temporary accommodation and storage space.
  • Landscaping: An often overlooked cost of a knock down rebuild is landscaping the property once construction has been completed. Depending on the amount of land to be landscaped, and the exact items you wish to add, the cost of these finishing touches can quickly add up.

Knock Down and Rebuild with Reliable Homebuilders

Choosing to knock down and rebuild your home offers a number of benefits over other types of building styles, particularly if you cannot bear to part with your current neighbourhood and its amenities. When carrying out a knock down rebuild, partnering with a reputable home builder makes the process that much easier. 

Eden Brae has a wealth of experience completing knock down rebuilds across New South Wales, replacing existing homes with stunning new designs tailored to the owners’ exact preferences. Our work has been recognised through numerous prestigious awards in the construction industry, making us a premier choice for knock down rebuilds in Sydney.

Even with a great builder for your project, there are still a number of hidden costs associated with a knock down rebuild, which can quickly turn a good idea into a financial headache. Budgeting for the hidden costs of a knock down rebuild before you start demolition, including expenses to rectify potential site issues, organise temporary accommodation and landscape your finished dream home, can save thousands in unexpected bills over the long term.

Whether you’re building your first home or another in your portfolio, Eden Brae has the expertise, customer service and award-winning designs to make your dreams a reality. Learn more about the hidden costs of a knock down rebuild, and make an appointment to view one of our conveniently-located display home villages, by contacting Eden Brae today.