Why a Knockdown Rebuild may not work for you

For those of us considering a knockdown rebuild, we generally have a motivating reason for change.  Perhaps you've grown out of your house, or there are too many things that you'd like to change that you're weighing up the options of knocking down your home and starting again.

It’s a big decision and you want to get it right. So lets explore the reasons why perhaps a knock down rebuild (or KDR) may not be right for you and your block.

5 Reasons not to Knockdown Rebuild

1.  You can live with your existing layout, it simply needs an update

Your home already has a good structure and layout overall and you only need to make cosmetic changes to kitchens and bathrooms.

2.  You want to renovate in stages

You’d prefer to save money by living in your home while you renovate even if that means you’ll have the stress of living in a renovation and longer build times.

3.  Your existing house is heritage listed or restricted by council

If you live in a heritage home or the council has restrictions around knock down rebuild, house-to-land ratio, setbacks, planning or tree removal restrictions, it’s a good idea to know upfront. 

If you’re unsure, it’s best to get advice from your local council. Or, by talking to a project home builder with proven experience, you can get guidance on the right questions to ask your council to make sure your block would be suitable. 

4.  Your block isn’t suitable for a knockdown rebuild

Things to watch out for are: your home is on a busy major road, steep block, you live next to a busy school or commercial area, you live in a flood or bushfire prone area. 

To help with this, if you choose an experienced builder, like Clarendon Homes, your block will be assessed to make sure it’s suitable.

5.  You don’t have the budget to pay rent while your new home is being built

While a knockdown rebuild can cost significantly less than a large-scale renovation, you’ll still need to factor in the same rental costs. 

You’ll need to move out of your existing home and rent for at least 12-18 months while your new home is being built, unless you can move in with family to save money.

You also need a budget contingency plan for additional costs, such as, landscaping, planning and approvals, service connections and building delays due to unforeseen circumstances like COVID and material shortages. 

If this is you, it’s best to get advice from your bank or financial planner. You can also get financial advice from Clarendon Home’s experienced finance team so you can accurately consider your options.

Still need help deciding whether to knockdown rebuild?

There’s a lot to consider so to make your decision easier use the following 3 steps to assess your options.

Your next steps for deciding on a knock down rebuild:

1. Get clear on what you want for you and your family. Ask yourself these questions and make a list.

• Would a new home suit you and your family better?
• Would a knockdown rebuild mean you can live in a home you love in the right area instead of making do with a home that doesn’t work?
• What are your priority inclusions based on your lifestyle? Is it a study, extra bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, home theatre, outdoor entertaining or open plan living?

Visit a display centre for inspiration so you can see for yourself what living in your dream home could feel like.

2. Do you have the budget for a knockdown rebuild?

The first step is to get professional financial advice so you’re clear on what your choices are.

• Can you move out of your home while your existing home is being built?
• Can you afford to pay rent or move in with family to save on costs?
• Do you have a financial plan if your build is delayed due to unforeseen circumstances?

The benefit of choosing a project builder, like Clarendon Homes, is you have access to our finance team who can help you make a decision that works for you.

3. Get answers from a reliable well-known project builder for peace of mind.

Ask questions about any concerns you have so you have the right information to make a well-informed decision before paying a deposit. 

Wondering who to talk to? Start by talking to an experienced sales person at your local display centre.

At Clarendon Homes, we can help you with every step of the knockdown process so you’re never left to figure it out on your own. From financial advice to colour schemes and everything in between.

If you have questions about your unique situation and whether a knockdown rebuild will work for you, talk to our sales team or visit a display centre near you for inspiration and advice from our experts in knock down rebuild.