How much does a knock down rebuild cost?
If your family loves the community and conveniences of your current neighbourhood, you may want to consider the option of a knock down rebuild. Economically, a knock down rebuild can be more advantageous compared to buying a new property or undertaking extensive renovations. Let’s learn more about the knock down rebuild process and the benefits that come with knocking down and building a brand new home.
What is a Knock Down Rebuild in Sydney?
Basically, a knock down rebuild is for property owners who want to knock down an existing outdated home (or some other structure that is built on the land), and replace it with a brand-new, custom-designed residence.
Knock Down Rebuild vs Renovation: What’s the Difference?
Choosing between a knock down rebuild and a renovation is a significant decision. While both options aim to enhance your living, they offer distinctly different paths to creating your ideal family home.
A renovation involves updating or expanding your existing home, working within the current structure to make improvements. This approach can be ideal for minor upgrades, such as modernising a kitchen or bathroom, or when you want to preserve certain architectural features. However, renovations often come with limitations and surprises. Hidden issues like outdated wiring, plumbing problems, or structural weaknesses can emerge, escalating costs and extending timelines. Renovations also typically require you to compromise on design, as you are confined to the existing layout of your home.
In contrast, a knock down rebuild offers a fresh start. This process involves completely demolishing your old home and constructing a new one from the ground up. With a knock down rebuild, you have the freedom to design a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle, needs, and aesthetic preferences. You can incorporate modern, energy-efficient features and customise every detail without being constrained by an existing structure. This approach often proves more economical in the long run, as it eliminates the hidden costs and unpredictability associated with extensive renovations.
Is It Cheaper to Knock Down Rebuild or Renovate?
Deciding between a knock down rebuild and a renovation often hinges on the cost considerations and the vision you have for your new home. While renovating may seem like a more economical choice at first glance, a knock down rebuild can often be the more cost-effective and rewarding option in the long run, and here’s why.
Renovations often involve sourcing quotes from a range of trades for the different areas of your home. While that process might seem straightforward enough, you need to take into consideration:
- the time it takes to first find the necessary trades people (including doing your research on their reputation and quality of work),
- organising the trades to come to your property to have a chat with you about what needs to be done,
- and then getting all the different quotes and comparing them, to work out which builder and contractors you will go with.
Not to mention, as you’re going through all that hassle, the trade inspections may uncover hidden some other issues with your home. For example, outdated wiring, plumbing problems, or structural damage - and each can add unexpected costs and extend the timeline for completing your new home. Additionally, renovations often require compromises because you’re confined to the existing layout of your home, limiting the extent of renovations you can practically achieve.
On the other hand, a knock down rebuild offers the clarity of starting fresh, just like building your first home. By completely demolishing the old structure and building anew, you eliminate the risk of hidden problems and the escalating costs that often come with them. The great thing about a knock down rebuild is that you have the freedom to design a home that perfectly fits your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences from the ground up; incorporating modern, energy-efficient features without the constraints of an existing structure.
When you add together the costs associated with all the areas that you want to or need to renovate in your home, and weigh those against the complete cost of a knock down rebuild
- the final cost comparison may actually surprise you!
Benefits of a Knock Down Rebuild
1. Complete Customisation: Start from scratch to design a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle and preferences without the constraints of existing structures.
2. Modern Design: Incorporate the latest architectural styles, energy-efficient technologies, and contemporary features for a truly up-to-date home.
3. Cost Predictability: Enjoy a fixed-price contract with no hidden costs, providing financial peace of mind and eliminating the surprise expenses often encountered with renovations.
4. Higher Value: A brand-new home often holds greater market value than a renovated older structure, offering a better return on investment.
5. Quality Assurance: Benefit from superior construction quality with new materials and techniques, reducing maintenance costs and increasing longevity.
6. Efficiency and Sustainability: Integrate sustainable design principles and modern energy-efficient systems, resulting in a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective home.
7. No Compromises: Avoid the limitations and compromises that come with renovating an old layout; instead, create a space that flows and functions exactly as you envision.
8. Future-Proofing: Design a home that meets your current needs while also anticipating future changes, ensuring your home remains functional and relevant for years to come.
9. Eliminate Surprises: Bypass the hidden problems often uncovered during renovations, such as structural issues or outdated plumbing and electrical.
10. Streamlined Process: Enjoy a more straightforward and efficient building process with a clear timeline and dedicated support from start to finish.
11. Personal Satisfaction: Experience the joy and fulfilment of creating a home that is uniquely yours, reflecting your personal taste and lifestyle in every detail.
The Cost of a Knock Down Rebuild: Upfront and Hidden Expenses
As with any building project, it pays to be aware of any upfront or hidden costs, so you can better prepare and manage your budget. Here are some of the most common Upfront and Hidden costs associated with a knock down rebuild.
How Much To Knock Down And Rebuild - Upfront Costs
1. Demolition Costs: Fees for safely demolishing the existing structure and clearing the site.
2. Design and Planning Fees: Costs associated with architects, designers, and obtaining necessary permits and approvals.
3. Construction Costs: The primary expense covering the building of your new home, including materials and labour.
4. Site Preparation: Expenses for preparing the land, such as excavation, levelling, and foundation work.
5. Utilities Connection: Costs for connecting essential services like water, electricity, gas, and sewage to the new home.
6. Land Surveying: Fees for professional land surveying to ensure accurate construction and compliance with local regulations.
7. Temporary Accommodation: Budget for living expenses if you need to rent a place while your new home is being built.
Hidden Costs Of A Knock Down Rebuild
1. Unexpected Site Issues: Additional expenses that arise from unforeseen ground conditions, such as poor soil quality or underground obstructions.
2. Asbestos Removal: If the existing home contains asbestos, safe removal and disposal can add to costs.
3. Regulatory Changes: New building codes or zoning laws introduced after planning can necessitate design changes and extra compliance costs.
4. Upgrades and Variations: Costs for any changes or upgrades requested during construction that weren't included in the initial contract.
5. Landscaping: Expenses for exterior finishing touches such as gardens, driveways, fencing, and outdoor living spaces.
6. Furnishing and Decor: The cost of new furniture, fittings, and decor to complement your brand-new home.
7. Delays and Extensions: Financial impact of unforeseen delays, including extended rental accommodation and storage fees.
Knock Down Rebuild Checklist: Tips for Success
To ensure a smooth and successful knock down rebuild process, it’s essential that you consider and plan all aspects of the project. With the right guidance and preparation, you can transform your existing property into the home of your dreams. Here are some invaluable knock down rebuild tips and a comprehensive checklist to help you navigate your knockdown rebuild project without any issues.
Knockdown Rebuild Checklist
1. Initial Consultation and Planning
- Assess your current property and determine feasibility.
- Consult with experienced knock down rebuild specialists, such as Eden Brae Homes, to discuss your vision and options.
- Obtain preliminary cost estimates and establish a budget.
2. Design and Approval
- Collaborate with Eden Brae architects and designers to create your ideal home layout.
- Ensure designs comply with local zoning laws and building regulations.
- Submit plans for council approval and obtain necessary permits.
3. Financing
- Secure financing for your project, including demolition, construction, and any contingencies.
- Review and finalise the Fixed Price contract to avoid unexpected costs.
4. Demolition Preparation
- Arrange for a detailed site survey and soil testing.
- Obtain demolition permits and hire a reputable demolition contractor.
- Ensure safe removal of hazardous materials, such as asbestos.
5. Temporary Living Arrangements
- Plan for temporary accommodation during the construction period.
- Arrange for storage of personal belongings if needed.
6. Construction Phase
- Clear and prepare the site for construction.
- Regularly communicate with your builder to monitor progress. Utilise Buildwatch for real-time updates and transparency throughout the build.
7. Final Stages
- Conduct independent quality inspections at key milestones.
- Plan for landscaping and exterior finishes.
- Coordinate with interior designers for furnishing and decor.
8. Completion and Handover
- Schedule a final walkthrough with your builder to ensure all aspects meet your expectations.
- Address any minor adjustments or touch-ups needed.
- Obtain the keys to your new home and move in!
Work With Knock Down Rebuild Specialists in Sydney
Unlike the uncertainties and inefficiencies that can come with renovating an old home, a knock down rebuild project offers you and your family the opportunity to stay in the community you adore with a home design that’s perfectly tailored to your vision and lifestyle needs.
Imagine designing a modern, functional, and energy-efficient home right where your children have their friends, where you know the best local spots, and where your roots are firmly planted.
At Eden Brae, our knock down rebuild service offers a clear, fixed-price contract, ensuring no hidden costs and complete financial transparency when you confirm how much a knock down rebuild will cost you. Our BuildSure Guarantee and streamlined home building process also makes rebuilding your dream home an affordable and stress-free experience.
If you’re a first home buyer or would like to have a chat with us about the cost of a knock down rebuild, simply contact our team today. With Eden Brae Homes by your side for a knock down rebuild in Sydney, you’ll have the expertise and support needed to turn your existing property into a brand-new, beautifully custom-designed home.