Remodeling: A Sustainable Approach

To build, to buy or to remodel? Many homeowners struggle with this decision, and understandably so. The right answer depends on your needs and situation, but the benefits of remodeling can far outweigh the stress and cost of a new build or a home search, especially in a competitive seller's market.

Here is why remodeling is often the smarter choice for your finances, and the greener choice for the planet.

1. To Build or to Remodel?

Maybe you would rather invest in the equity of the home you already own than put all your financial eggs in a new home basket. If you are considering building, keep in mind that the costs go far beyond construction materials, which also fluctuate with the market.

The hidden costs of building new

• Architect and contractor fees
• Closing costs and moving expenses
• Housing costs while you wait for the new home to be move-in ready
• New furniture, appliances and window coverings
• Decks, fencing and landscaping
• Unforeseen issues with permits, tree ordinances, grading or latent defects

And that does not include the stress that comes with it all.

Improving can beat moving

Often, the home you already own can be updated to build more equity for you, should you ever decide to move or downsize. If you love your neighborhood, your yard and the "bones" of your home, get an appraisal, look at comparable homes nearby and choose your remodeling projects wisely. Kitchen, bathroom and exterior updates are common choices that deliver a good return. For more on that decision, read should you move or remodel and how to get the best ROI on your remodel.

2. A Sustainable Question

Is building new or renovating better for the environment? Research from the National Trust for Historic Preservation has found that reusing and renovating an existing building is greener than new construction in nearly every case.

A renovation can start saving energy right away, while a new build can take decades to make up for the energy that went into constructing it. When you renovate, especially when you reuse materials, you reduce waste and give new life to an existing structure. The National Institute of Building Sciences has described preservation and renovation as the ultimate recycling project.

Energy-saving ideas that won't break the budget

• Add window treatments, shutters or awnings to get the most from your air conditioning during hot Georgia summers.
• Consider higher ceilings to improve light and air circulation.
• Install low-flow toilets and water-saving fixtures.
• Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting.

For more ideas, see our post on green home design.

3. Sustainability Outside Your Home

Sustainability extends beyond your walls. New construction often involves clearing a lot or dramatically altering the land, which can take decades to recover. When you remodel, you typically work within the existing footprint of the home, leaving mature trees and landscaping intact. Remodeling is, quite literally, a greener approach.

Renovate the Home You Love

Whatever your remodeling needs, our team can help you update the home you already love so it works better for you. Explore our remodeling services and recent projects.

Ready to talk about your remodel? Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or fill out our contact form.