You don't have to remodel everything in your home, which means your budget can fit what you need to do. In many cases (but not all), it is cheaper to buy an existing home, according to data collected by the National Association of Home Builders. Poulos says renovation is usually more affordable, partly because the permitting process can be cheaper and faster. If you've only been in your home for a few years and have a mortgage, the home's equity may be minimal.
With such a wide range, it is clear that the cost of remodeling an entire house depends on the selected projects, the taste of the owner, and the labor costs of local contractors. Replacing different materials and accessories can save thousands of dollars, so if costs are a concern, ask in advance if there is a cheaper alternative. If you don't need the agent to organize open days, and they can get a buyer directly, without having to separate from another agent, they may offer you a discount on their savings. Building your own custom home isn't always within your budget, but it may be feasible to renovate your existing home to better meet your daily needs and habits.
Ensuring that you have independent inspectors and contractors to inspect the home for any major problems can help you avoid long-term headaches. One of the best things about buying a turnkey home is that you can move right away and start enjoying your new life as a homeowner. Generally, homes that only need cosmetic improvements are easier to make a profit than homes that require structural changes. Location, price, market trends, property taxes, homeowners association fees, and property status are usually taken into account in a home search.
For example, a beautiful four-bedroom house may have only one bathroom, or the kitchen may be too small, with no room to expand. Studies have shown that in some markets, homes for repairs are not significantly cheaper than homes ready to move in. Depending on your target housing market, existing home prices may remain quite favorable after the financial crisis and housing slump that significantly lowered real estate prices across the country. If you don't want to deal with the hassle of managing contractors and living in a half-finished home, you'd better buy a turnkey home.
Helping you avoid the bad time to buy, the wrong location or the wrong home for your budget can go a long way in making sure you're happy with the bottom line. The lot size or size of the house may be too small or you don't have enough bedrooms to fit your growing family. But you might be surprised to learn that renovating an outdated home isn't always cheaper than buying a turnkey property.
