Knockdown Rebuild vs. Renovation: What's Best for You?

What does it mean to knock down and rebuild? 

To put it simply, a knock down rebuild (KDR) involves demolishing your current, established home and building a brand-new one in its place. It's all about realising your dream home, with complete freedom over your choices and selections.

With a knock down rebuild, you don’t need to move to a new location to achieve the home you’ve always envisioned. When you choose to build a new home, you avoid the hassle of renovating around existing structures or challenges, dealing with tradespeople in your living space, and uncovering issues halfway through your project forcing compromises in the design. Instead, you get to build a dream home that is not only stunning, but also functional, energy-efficient, and comfortable year-round.

In our view, there are lots of advantages to knocking down your existing house and undertaking a complete rebuild in the same location and on the same site. We’ve created this quick reference guide to help you weigh the pros and cons of this approach.

Is it better to knockdown and rebuild or renovate?

Deciding whether to renovate your existing home or start entirely from scratch can be challenging. Here are a few things to consider:

Determine costs, timelines and processes 

When undertaking any build project, it’s important to consider costs, timelines, guarantees and processes. Whether it’s more cost effective to renovate or complete rebuild will depend on the extent of changes you wish to make to your existing structure, the scale of those changes, and determining what you would ultimately like from a new home.

Building with a company like Carlisle Homes, where we provide all the information you need upfront to make an informed decision, usually makes this question easier to answer. We offer full transparency on home pricing, guarantees on build and completion timeframes, a 25 year structural warranty, along with warranties on all of your new fittings and fixtures. Plus, you can walk through your home before you buy it at one of our many display centres, ensuring its fit with your lifestyle before the process even begins. This level of clarity is often lacking with a renovation.

Consider the age and style

If you are looking to preserve an older character home with decorative ceilings and ornate features, renovating is likely a better option than a complete knockdown and rebuild.

Ultimately, it all comes back to what you want from your new home. If preserving history and maintaining the same character and style is important to you, then renovating is probably the answer.

Consider your block

The conditions of your block are also a significant determining factor in whether a knockdown and rebuild is more suitable than a renovation.

For instance, if your block is relatively flat, with easy access, no significant easements or planning overlays, and clear setback boundaries and local planning regulations, then building is a great option. However, if your block has complexities, then renovating might be a more suitable answer.

Chatting with one of our friendly Carlisle Homes New Home Sales Consultants about your block is a great starting point in determining whether a knock down rebuild is feasible for your new home.

Logistics of renovating an existing home

Your lifestyle and how much spare time you have are also major factors in deciding between a knock down rebuild and a renovation.

Renovating, especially if you choose to stay in the home, can be quite draining and requires a lot of patience. Having tradespeople in and out of your home can cause significant disruption to your routine and lifestyle.

On the other hand, opting for a knock down rebuild means you can rent or live elsewhere while your new home is being built, allowing your normal lifestyle to continue uninterrupted. However, there are rental costs to consider and factor into your budget when determining how much you can spend on your new home.

The advantages of a knock down rebuild vs. renovation

There are lots of advantages of a knock down rebuild, outlined below: 

Upfront costs

Many homeowners start their knock down rebuild journey by assessing whether a renovation or complete rebuild is right for them. If they look into a renovation project, they will often set a renovation budget to determine what that outlay of funds will get them. This is often when many homeowners turn to knock down rebuilds. The hidden costs associated with renovations are often what makes them the most risky.

The difference with undertaking a knockdown rebuild project with Carlisle Homes is that all of your costs for your project are known upfront, making what might be a tough decision easier. This improves your financial situation significantly, as all costs can be accounted for upfront.

Staying in your existing location 

One of the main advantages of a knock down rebuild is that you get to stay in the same location. You don’t need to find new schools for the kids, gyms, supermarkets, or other local amenities that you’ve grown accustomed to. This can be a significant benefit, as moving to a new area can be disruptive and time-consuming. Your old home gets demolished, and a new home pops up in it’s place!

A entire house that perfectly suits your requirements

A knock down rebuild allows you to have a home built exactly to your specifications. You’re not stuck with an old house that has outdated windows, insulation, or heating and cooling systems. Instead, with Carlisle Homes you get a completely new house with a 25 year structural warranty and warranties on all new fittings and fixtures. You can also customise your floorplan to ensure it perfectly suits your lifestyle - from the number of bedrooms and living areas to the size of your garage, Carlisle offers so many new home options for you to consider.

Energy Efficiency

With a minimum 7-star energy efficiency on all new Carlisle Homes, you can make your brand-new home as energy efficient as you’d like. Since you’re building on a block you’re already familiar with, you can ensure your home is oriented correctly to harness the sun and maximise natural light. Using sustainable materials such as double glazing, upgraded insulation, a steel roof, Hebel, and energy-rated fittings and fixtures, your new home will be naturally lighter and brighter, cooler in summer, warmer in winter, and comfortable year-round.

Inclusions and guarantees

At Carlisle Homes we love to spoil our customers and build homes overflowing with premium inclusions all year round. Discover inclusions with impressive features including the latest European appliances, designer tapware, resort-style oversized showers and elegant kitchens complete with expansive island benches and so much more. You will find so many luxury inclusions in the base price of your home with our 365-inclusions. There won’t be anything you’re left without in your new home.

And in terms of maintenance, generally speaking, new homes are generally easier to maintain. Everything in your home is brand new - with no compromises are needed in any of your new spaces.

Cost and process efficiencies

New energy-efficient appliances and a minimum 7-star energy rating mean reduced utility bills and maintenance costs (reducing ongoing costs), fewer emissions and pollutants, an increased quality of life, and a more cost effective home.

Additionally, you save on buying/selling fees, retain the equity in your existing land, and avoid stamp duty costs when you knock down your existing home. You also have the surety of a fixed price and a contract commitment for the building timeline, giving you complete confidence in your planning and budgeting.

Future proofing and market value

A knockdown rebuild allows you to future-proof your home with a modern design and sustainability in mind, ensuring it meets contemporary standards for energy efficiency. This means you can also incorporate the latest innovations in home automation, security and eco-friendly materials, creating a living space that is cutting-edge and environmentally conscious.

Additionally, a brand-new home can significantly increase the market value of your property. Modern homes with up-to-date features and compliance with current building standards often attract higher resale values compared to renovated older homes. This can provide substantial return on investment, making a knockdown rebuild not only a lifestyle upgrade but also a financially sound decision. 

With a knockdown rebuild, you have the opportunity to create a home that not only meets your current needs but also adapts to future demands, ensuring long-term comfort, convenience, and value.

Considerations for a knockdown rebuild project 

Before embarking on a KDR project, there are several key factors to consider to ensure a smooth and successful process. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Block size and suitability

Evaluate the dimensions, slope or gradient and ease of access of your block. Consider what type of home design can fit on your block, taking into account the block frontage, any setbacks, driveway position, or whether there are any easements on your lot that you need to account for.

Understanding local council planning laws or regulations, including flooding, heritage or vegetation overlays is crucial. These factors will influence the design, feasibility and hassle-free construction process of your new home.

Carlisle Homes is here to help guide and support you the entire way through this journey, so please visit one of our many display centres and chat with our expert New Home Sales Consultants.

Existing structure

Decide if there are any existing pools or other structures that you want to keep or remove. If you plan to include a pool in your new home, incorporate this into your design and planning stages.

Understand the demolition process  

While the demolition process can initially seem daunting, with forward planning and an understanding of the requirements, it’s quite straightforward. You will need to find a licensed and insured demolition contractor to coordinate the demolition of your property, including the removal of all structures, debris, and waste. Some contractors may offer options to salvage and recycle materials, which can reduce project costs and benefit the environment. Ensure the contractor handles all necessary permits and complies with local regulations to ensure a smooth demolition process.

Did you know we have a podcast dedicated entirely to the knockdown and rebuild journey? We cover everything from budget and finances, finding a suitable block, designing your home to suit your lifestyle, suitability, landscape design and automation. You’ll also hear from a customer about their journey to new home ownership in bayside Melbourne. 

Listen at your convenience - available wherever you get your podcasts. 

What is the process for knocking down and rebuilding with Carlisle? 

Knockdown rebuild projects are different from a standard new home build on a vacant block.

When you decide to knock down and rebuild with Carlisle Homes, you can trust that our dedicated team will be with you every step of the way, right from the start. From establishing your finances and determining your budget, to assessing block suitability and choosing your new home design, through to demolition, construction and then handover of your new home, you will feel empowered and in control as you set out on the journey to new home ownership with us. 

Our comprehensive KDR Information Pack details everything you need to know about building a new home after demolishing an existing home, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable process. This is a great place to start! 

FAQs 

What do I need to do to get started?

To get started, it is best to chat with one of our dedicated knockdown rebuild specialists. Simply call 1300 520 914 or visit one of our many display homes throughout Melbourne. You can also browse through our award-winning homes on our website to determine whether they will suit your block size and lifestyle requirements. 

Will Carlisle Homes demolish my old house?

As the property owner, demolition is your responsibility. However, our dedicated KDR team will guide you through the process. Check out our demolition tips and everything you need to know in our helpful 60-page KDR Information Pack.

Can I choose any Carlisle home for my block?

You can select from any of our Affinity Collection or Inspire home designs. These ranges offer a variety of options to suit your preferences including atriums, voids and multi-generational living. Please note, the EasyLiving series is not available for knockdown rebuild projects.

How much does it cost to KDR?

Our KDR team will help you estimate the total costs for your project. For detailed information, please contact us or call 1300 520 914 to speak with one of our consultants.

Does Carlisle build in my area?

Carlisle Homes builds in premier locations across Melbourne’s north, south-east, west, and Geelong. To see if we build in your area, check out where we build. 

What do you need from me to get started?

To start the process, we need:

• An accurate and full copy of your Contract of Sale of Land, including your Land Title document.
• Any ideas you have about your preferred home design from the Affinity Collection or Inspire homes.

Read about the entire house KDR process here