When considering the path to settling in your dream home, the decision to build a new home or renovate an existing one is pivotal. 

Both options have their merits and drawbacks, and the best choice largely depends on individual preferences, budget, and long-term goals. As a home builder and renovator, I often walk my clients through the pros and cons of each option.

Building a Home

Pros

Customization: Building from scratch offers the ultimate level of personalization. From the floor plan to the finishes, everything can be tailored to your exact specifications and desires.

Modern Standards: When building a home designed by Double Edge Builders, you’ll benefit from the latest construction techniques and materials, ensuring better energy efficiency, safety, and adherence to current building codes.

Less Immediate Maintenance: Everything in a new home is untouched, meaning you won't have to worry about major repairs or replacements for some years.

Cons

Time-Consuming: Building a home can take several months to over a year, requiring patience and often a temporary living arrangement.

Unpredictable Costs: Unexpected construction expenses can arise, and budgets can be exceeded if not strictly monitored. At Double Edge Builders, we try to anticipate heavy costs up front and make it a priority to stay within budget, but sometimes things pop up or clients want to upgrade from their original plans.

Land Availability: Depending on your desired location, finding a suitable plot of land can be challenging, particularly in densely populated areas.

Renovating an Existing Home

Pros

Character Preservation: Older homes often come with unique architectural details and character that new constructions might lack. Renovating allows you to retain this charm while updating other aspects.

Cost-Effective (Sometimes): Depending on the scale and nature of the renovation, it can be more budget-friendly than building a new home. This is of course a case-by-case situation, but we always provide our clients with an itemized budget prior to signing an agreement.

Familiarity with Location: If you're renovating your current residence, you're already accustomed to the neighborhood, neighbors, and nearby amenities.

Cons

Hidden Complications: Renovation often comes with unforeseen issues, especially in older homes. From outdated wiring to structural problems, these surprises can be time-consuming and costly.

Limited Scope: While you can make significant changes through renovation, you're still somewhat confined by the existing structure and layout of the home.

Displacement: Depending on the extent of the renovation, you might need to move out temporarily, necessitating additional accommodation expenses.

The decision to build new or renovate hinges on a combination of personal, financial, and logistical factors. If you yearn for a home that's thoroughly modern and entirely reflective of your style, building might be the route for you. 

On the other hand, if you're drawn to the charm and history of an older house and are willing to inject some TLC to make it your own, renovation could be your calling.

It’s important to do your research and consult with professionals such as myself before making any decision. We can help provide you with an expert opinion and clarity on the project, ensuring that your chosen path leads to your dream home.

If we can help you in any way, please reach out to our team! 

About the Expert:

Dwayne Sword is the owner of Double Edge Builders, LLC. He was born and raised as a south Georgia boy, who has called Springfield, Tennessee home for over 18 years. Building homes and creating places people build families has been Dwayne's passion since he was 18 years old. He has since built over 10,000 houses in Florida, Georgia, and now Tennessee! Dwayne has the experience to get any size job done, and the relaxed comfortable personality that will make you feel like he's a lifelong friend as he listens and works with you to create every detail you've ever dreamed of.