Are you planning to update your home but need to decide whether to renovate or remodel? Renovations and remodels are often used interchangeably, but they differ in terms of cost, scope, and purpose. In this blog post, we’ll explain the difference between the two home improvement projects so you can make an informed decision. Whether in Chatham County or Orange County, this guide will help you choose the right project for your home and budget.
What’s the Difference?
Before we delve into the differences between renovation and remodeling, let’s define their meanings. Renovation is the act of updating the look and feel of a home without altering its existing structure. It includes refreshing or restoring a project to a like-new state. Think of it as giving your home a facelift. On the other hand, remodeling involves restructuring, redesigning, or drastically altering a project. It entails making something new from something old. Examples of remodeling tasks include expanding the kitchen, adding a new bathroom, or building a sunroom.
Cost and Value: Renovation vs. Remodel
Remodeling generally costs more than renovation because it involves extensive structural changes and infrastructure relocation, such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and ductwork. Remodeling could be more complicated than initially thought because a wall between your kitchen and dining room could hide electrical wires, water lines, and ductwork. When the wall is removed, it can lead to red tape and substantial costs.
Renovations, however, consist of updating finishes and fixtures, which tends to be less expensive than a remodel. Because less money is put in on the front end of the project, renovations often have a higher return on investment (ROI) than remodeling. Homebuyers are often attracted to renovated homes because they look move-in ready, which is always good for the seller.
Remodeling has a lower ROI than renovation because many structural changes deliver different levels of return. For example, adding a space can be expensive, and in some cases, it doesn’t pay off when you put the house on the market.
DIY-Friendly Renovations
If you’re looking to save money, renovation may be the right project for you. Renovations are often more DIY-friendly than remodels. As most renovation tasks involve updating finishes, such as painting, installing flooring, and refacing cabinetry, even beginner DIYers can get involved. Plus, most renovations don’t require you to pull a permit, so you can complete the project without hiring a contractor.
Explore Renovations and Remodeling Today
Ultimately, whether to renovate or remodel depends on your goals and budget. Renovation may be the way to go if you want to refresh your home without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you’re looking to completely change the structure of your home to meet your needs, remodeling may be what you need.
You can always consult with a custom home builder such as us Horizon Construction & Renovations at (919) 542-4457 to help you make the right choice. Regardless, be sure to get the necessary permits, work with reputable contractors, and hire a thorough home inspection before closing.