Transforming Your Sydney Property: The Benefits of a Knockdown Rebuild

When you’ve outgrown your existing home, there are really just three options for you: sell your current home and pursue a new place to live, knockdown rebuild on the same spot, or renovate areas of your home.

 

If you love your current home location, you might not be too keen on the idea of selling your current home and relocating elsewhere. This leaves only two options: knockdown rebuild vs renovation. But which one is the better option? 

 

Your budget and how much time you have all play a part in your decision, but it is worth considering the difficulties that can arise when renovating an older property in Sydney. 

 

With life having moved on considerably in the past 50 years, you may find the plans for your current home are simply not suited to modern living. Structural changes are difficult to enact on a small scale; you may find demolishing and rebuilding easier than major renovations!

 

This article will look at the benefits of a knockdown rebuild project home in Sydney, and how it can give you a fresh start with a brand new home without going to the trouble of fully relocating.

What is a knockdown rebuild?  

A knockdown rebuild is when you demolish your current property and erect a new one on the same site. If you like your current block of land but want a more custom build to help you create your perfect home, this is the perfect solution for you. 

 

A knockdown and rebuild project can allow you to build your dream home without incurring the significant expense of purchasing a new land package and paying stamp duty.

Knockdown rebuild vs renovation  

To renovate or rebuild: that is the question. The key difference between the two is that a renovation only affects part of the building, so you can potentially still live on the property while the work is being done.

 

Many people find that renovating existing structures can create too much upheaval to allow for comfortable living, so they will seek accommodation elsewhere during the build process anyway. 

 

If there are only a few rooms you want to alter, and your house plans are not extensive, you may find it cheaper to renovate an existing home, but knockdown rebuilds allow you to make a fresh start, potentially allowing you to realise your dream of owning a more luxurious home.

 

What are the benefits of a knockdown rebuild?

If you want a home to suit your current lifestyle without relocating, there are so many benefits to a knockdown rebuild project. Let’s take a look.

Design freedom

Have you ever looked at a double storey homes wishing your own single storey could be expanded? A knockdown rebuild gives you the design freedom to focus not only on interior styles but also on your overall housing design.

Increased property value

Investing in a custom-built home designed to your exact specifications not only enhances your lifestyle but can be a significant investment opportunity as well. With a newly rebuilt house, you will likely find the resale value of your property increases.

Improved energy efficiency

House design has come a long way in a short space of time. Many existing houses are not as airtight and insulated as newer ones. Today, home builders have a much greater focus on improved energy efficiency, so a knockdown rebuild is a great way to capitalise on these improvements.

Reduced long-term costs

With a knockdown rebuild, not only will you avoid the cost of relocation, but a more energy-efficient, insulated house will bring down your energy bills as well.

 

Plus, if you build a new home with Provincial Homes, you can benefit from our 30 year structural guarantee.

Enhanced lifestyle

Brand new homes can offer you all the mod cons you can imagine. For example, if you’re after a more outdoor style of living similar to acreage home designs, rebuilding your home on a smaller scale could give you all the green space you need.

Key considerations for a knockdown rebuild 

While a knockdown rebuild is undoubtedly a savvy choice, there are some factors you will need to take into consideration before embarking on your project:

Cost

You need to have a budget, be aware of your own borrowing power, and plan accordingly. In many cases, affordable homes are often better than dream homes that you have to scrimp and save for.

 

It is worth looking into construction loans. You can also avoid hidden costs by ensuring you obtain quotes from knockdown rebuild specialists who will take the demolition contractor’s fee into account as well as the rebuild cost. 

Time

Home building can be time-consuming. Adding in demolition to your timeline will of course, extend it, but being prepared for this makes it straightforward. 

 

One of the cons of renovation is that sometimes you will find additional structural issues, or hidden asbestos, that can take extra time and add to your overall site costs. 

Disruption

You will need to leave your home for the duration of the project. As this house starts from scratch, you would require either a caravan or a rental property for the duration of the build, depending on your circumstances.

Council approvals

New South Wales has zoning regulations that will dictate aspects such as the maximum proportions of your house. It is worth noting that different areas will incur varying council restrictions; this is something to explore when submitting your Development Application (DA).

How to find the right builder 

A knockdown rebuild can be a significant investment, so it is worth spending time finding the best possible contractor for the job. It’s essential to look for experienced and reputable home builders that can achieve your vision.

Step 1: Set your expectations

You will need to have a rough idea of your hopes for your house and land before you begin. For example, are you looking to upgrade your single storey home to a double? Know what you want, and investigate how much it likely costs to build based on examples.

Step 2: Research builders

You will want to look at several contractors so you can compare them. Things to look for include their experience in the industry, their credentials, and whether they have a portfolio of existing properties they can show you.

Step 3: Obtain quotes

Ensure they give you a detailed breakdown of all the costs so there are no surprises along the line. Ensure they take demolition site costs into account as well as the build. You will also want to ensure their vision aligns with yours at this stage.

Step 4: Make your applications

You will need to investigate whether you need to make a DA, and also apply for a construction loan, which can be released directly to your contractor in increments that align to stages of the build.

 

If you want to simplify your knockdown rebuild even further, Provincial Homes is here to support you through the process. Check out our Sydney display homes for inspiration.

Summing up 

Truth be told, it’s often cheaper to start from scratch than embark on home renovations. At Provincial Homes, we believe that a knockdown rebuild is almost always the more suitable solution in comparison to a renovation.

 

If you agree, why not set up an appointment with our friendly representatives, who can talk you through the knockdown rebuild process? Contact us today to get a quote on your home improvement project.

Frequently asked questions 

Could my home’s orientation be improved?

Does the morning sun shine brightly through your bedroom window as you’re trying to sleep? Is your entrance around the corner of the home and difficult for visitors and guests to see? A knockdown rebuild can fix that for you. 

 

One of the main benefits of knocking down and rebuilding is that you can customise everything – from the island bench in the kitchen to the position of your bathroom mirror. 

 

Alternatively, renovating your home means making do with what you’ve got and working around the existing layout, which might not be ideal for what you want.

Which option will most increase my home’s value?

A knockdown rebuild is the clear winner. We don’t build like we used to – and for good reason. Generally speaking, a new home is easier to maintain as it will be more energy-efficient. 

 

Furthermore, you won’t run into any nasty surprises like old pipes or unsafe wiring that needs replacing or termites in the foundation.

Could I improve my home’s energy efficiency by rebuilding?

With a knockdown rebuild, you can install heating and cooling systems that are far more economical. This translates to cheaper utility bills.

Do I want the hassle of renovating?

If you’ve ever renovated, you’ll know how much of an emotional toll it can take on your well-being. And if you haven’t, you’ll need to consider the following: 

 

Are you working full-time? Raising a family? Could you live for a prolonged period with builders in the home? All these added interruptions may not be beneficial for you.

Is knockdown rebuild an option in my area?

All things considered, you’ll also need to ask whether a knockdown rebuild is an option in your area. For a knockdown rebuild to occur to your existing home, you’ll need to consider whether your house faces demolition restrictions or major design limitations.

 

Structural issues and the orientation of your home will also need to be evaluated.