Knock Down Rebuild - Signs You Should KDR Rather Than Renovate

The Knock Down Rebuild (KDR) is certainly becoming a popular choice for many homebuilders, and it's easy to see why! 

If you love where you live but your current home has a lot of issues—whether they be structural, aesthetic, or functional; instead of renovating which can mean you’re just patching up problems or making do with outdated designs, a knock down rebuild is a great option which will give you the home you’ve always dreamed of!

But, if you need some convincing, let's explore in more detail what’s involved in the knock down rebuild process, and then we’ll look at the clear signs that you should go with knocking down and building your first home over a home renovation.

What is a Knock Down Rebuild

Just as the name suggests, the knock down rebuild process involves completely demolishing your existing home, and constructing a superb brand new home right on the same plot of land. A knock down rebuild allows homeowners to stay right where they are - no moving to a whole new address. Even if you were to compare a knock down rebuild vs renovation, instead of working around the constraints of an existing structure, a knock down rebuild lays down the new foundation (figuratively and literally) for your perfect home! 

How Does The Knock Down Rebuild Process Work?

Knocking down your old house and rebuilding a beautiful, new modern home is much easier than what you’d think with knock down rebuild specialists like Eden Brae Homes. Here’s an example of the key steps involved in turning your old home into a stunning new one!

1. Consult with our Eden Brae knock down rebuild specialists for site check. 
2. Our designers and builders will work with you on your new home design.
3. Finalise costs and plans, contracts signed, and everything is ready to go!
4. Check with the local council and get approval for home demolition plans.
5. Demolition starts.
6. Your new home takes shape!
7. Once complete, there are last minute inspections to ensure everything is PERFECT.
8. It’s handover day, where you get the keys to your brand new home!
9. Builder should do a post move-in warranty inspection to make sure there’s no issues, and you and your family are completely happy.
10. You’ll love your new home so much, we know that you’ll want to rave about your knock down rebuild to everyone!
    
    

Knock Down Rebuild vs. Renovation: Which is Better?

When weighing up a knock down rebuild vs renovation, your choice ultimately comes down to 2 things: the current condition of your home and the type of changes you want to make. If you want to keep the existing foundation and structure of your home, and save some money by reusing some of your home’s existing materials which are still in pretty good condition, then a renovation will be the better choice for you. If you’ll be too limited by the structural layout of your home or the condition of your home is simply too challenging (for example it’s too damaged by termites), the best choice will be to knock it down and start from scratch.

In terms of changes you want to make, a renovation is better if you want to keep or modify the existing structure, which could mean making improvements to certain areas of the home, such as redoing a kitchen or bathroom. Renovations are also a good choice if you want to complete the changes in a shorter amount of time (renovating can be completed in a shorter timeframe than an entire rebuild), or stay living in your home while it’s been renovated (so you don’t need to completely move out).

On the other hand, while a knock down rebuild means your family has to pack up and move out until the build is complete (which will often take longer than a renovation), it does provide plenty of long-term benefits. Your new home can be designed to better suit the size or shape of your block. For example if it’s quite a narrow block, your knock down rebuild specialists can design a home that makes the most of the land to give you more home for your buck. You can also customise the design of your home to include all the modern amenities you could want (like energy-efficiency), so that it will perfectly fit the functional needs of your lifestyle and family, you’ll have lower maintenance costs, and the value of the property will also increase.

Is It Cheaper to Knock Down and Rebuild or Renovate?

A knock down rebuild is generally more expensive than a renovation because of some initial costs such as the demolition. On the other hand, while renovating might seem like the cheaper option, it often comes with hidden costs and unforeseen issues, particularly if your existing home is quite old. For example, there may be areas of your home that are infested with termites and so you need to completely replace all the wood, or the plumbing is corroded or is damaged and so all the pipes need to be replaced. These issues can soon add up, blowing out your initial budget. If you were to then compare all the costs of renovating with a knock down rebuild, you’ll probably find that a knock down rebuild is the financially better option because you don’t have to deal with any structural or repair issues, and you don’t have to worry about replacing any outdated features. With a knock down rebuilt, you can incorporate all the modern and energy-efficient technology you could want, all included in your quote. 

Benefits of a Knock Down Rebuild
And there are even more reasons why a knock down rebuild makes sense:

1. Custom Design: Building your dream home from the ground up means you have complete control over the layout, finishes, and features. 
2. Modern Features: You can choose to design a home with all the creature comforts your family would love, plus incorporate products and building materials that will reduce energy bills substantially while making your home more sustainable.
3. Increased Property Value: A home with all the mod-cons will also have a higher market value, so the money you invest into a knock down rebuild now, can offer much better returns when you go to sell in the future. 
4. Avoid Hidden Costs: Building a brand new home ensures that you won't face unexpected costs from structural issues or outdated systems that you would likely find when renovating an older property.
5. No Stamp Duty Fees: By building a new home instead of purchasing a new property,, you’ll avoid having to pay stamp duty fees, saving you a lot of cash.
6. Better Layout: You have the freedom to design a floor plan that optimises every square metre of space for more functionality and comfortable living.
7. Low Maintenance: A new home is low maintenance and has lower upkeep costs.
8. Improved Safety: Your home will be built to all the latest building standards/codes and safety regulations.
   
   Also, here are more tips on how to nail your knock down rebuild!
   

Should I Knock Down My House and Rebuild? 7 Signs It’s Time 

Now you know some of the fantastic benefits of a knock down rebuild, now let’s look at the reasons behind why you should knock down your existing home…

1. You could have extensive structural issues: If your current home has significant structural problems, such as foundation issues, severe water damage, or extensive termite damage. Those are just some of the expensive and difficult problems you might face with an existing home, so why not save yourself the hassle and cost of getting them sorted by knocking it all down and starting again.  
2. You have an outdated design and layout to work with: Older homes often come with layouts that no longer suit modern living. Small, compartmentalised rooms and outdated designs can make your home feel cramped and uncomfortable. The knock down rebuild process allows you to design a new layout that maximises space, you can add more rooms that suit the needs of your family, and you can bring your home up to date with contemporary design trends and functionality.
   
3. You want a home that’s more modern: A knock down rebuild is a perfect opportunity to incorporate modern amenities. From smart home systems and security, to energy-efficient appliances and sustainable building materials, a new build allows you to integrate the latest innovations into your home.
4. You have a set budget and don’t want the risk of high renovation costs: Sometimes, the costs of renovating an old home can come pretty close to what you’d pay to knock down and rebuild anyway. There’s also a risk that unforeseen issues or extensive work is needed to bring your home up to scratch, things that you might not have budgeted for which will leave you out of pocket or sacrificing some of your plans.
5. You want a better investment: A modern, custom-built home is likely to attract higher market value and greater interest from future buyers, ensuring a strong return on your investment.
6. You love your location: If your family really loves your neighbourhood but not your home, a knock down rebuild allows you to stay in your preferred location while enjoying all the benefits of a brand-new home. 
7. You have ageing infrastructure: Homes with ageing infrastructure, such as outdated plumbing or electrical systems, can be a constant source of headaches and expenses. In a knock down rebuild home everything will be brand-new!
   
   With long-term benefits, financial savings, and an increased property value, a knock down rebuild is definitely worthwhile!
   

Partner With The Knockdown Rebuild Specialists at Eden Brae

If you’re looking to create a beautiful, modern, and more efficient home, all without leaving the neighbourhood that your family adores, then a knock down rebuild with Eden Brae makes perfect sense!

A knock down rebuild not for your family? If you’re looking for a change, then be sure to check out our fantastic house and land packages across New South Wales!