Building a New home vs Extension?
Have you weighed up all the options when it comes to a new build vs an extension for your home? Building or extending a home is a big decision that homeowners face in Australia. It is a choice that can significantly enhance the quality of life for homeowners, but what is the best option? Building a new home or doing an extension? Before making a decision, it is essential to understand the pros and cons of each choice.
Benefits of building a new home
Customisation and personalisation
Building a new home can give homeowners the opportunity to personalise their home. They can work alongside architects, building designers or draftspersons to create a unique home that suits their exact needs and preferences.
Modern amenities and energy efficiency
New homes come with modern amenities, including better insulation systems, energy efficient heating and cooling systems, and smart home technology. The advanced technological features result in lower energy bills and a more environmentally friendly home.
Fewer Maintenance Costs
Building a new home could be a more cost effective route in the long term, with fewer maintenance needs, homeowners can spend less money on repairs and upkeep of their homes.
Disadvantages of building a new home
Longer Timelines
Building a new home can be a lengthy and time consuming process. It can take up to a year depending on the size of the home and the complexity of the design. 
Site Restrictions
One of the challenges of building a new home is finding the perfect location. Often homeowners must find available land that suits their needs and isn’t located in a flood prone area or a place with any other building restrictions.
Budget limitations
Building a new home may come with a higher price tag than extending an existing home, with a higher cost for land, design fees, and the construction itself.
Benefits of a home extension
Cost effective
Extending a home can be a cost effective solution compared to building a new home. It could be less expensive to extend than to start from scratch with a new one.
Quicker completion time
Building an extension can take less time than building a new home. If homeowners can remain in their homes while the extension is underway this can save on temporary accommodation expenses.
Increase home value
Adding an extension can add significant value to a home, depending on the type of extension and how well it matches up with the original look and feel of the house.
Disadvantages of a home extension
Limited Customisation
While extending a home can offer some customisation opportunities it can be limited to the existing home’s overall design, which may not be the best option in terms of functionality and needs, often during the process there may be sacrifices and compromises to accommodate the existing home.
Possible hidden costs
There are often unforeseen costs involved when extending homes such as repairing damaged structures, which adds to the overall project cost. It may be more expensive more square metre to build an extension when compared to a new build because of the common unforeseen costs that may be involved. For example, there may be asbestos, structural elements, plumbing, electrical, and soil or rock issues. The existing structure may also need modifying or changing to accommodate the addition of the new structure.
Overwhelm of building regulations 
Adding an extension involves adhering to building regulations, which can be an overwhelming process. There may be additional permits and approvals and adhere to additional building codes. Here at Prime Design we organise all of your permits and approvals on your behalf so you don’t have the stress of arranging the paperwork and following up with the local council, as we provide this service on your behalf.
Building or extending a home both come with several pros and cons. It is up to the homeowner to evaluate which option is best suited to their needs, preferences, and budget. Building a new home offers more customisation and modern amenities, while an extension may be a more cost effective option and time efficient. By taking into consideration the different factors, homeowners can choose the option that suits them best.
No matter the decision you choose to make it is important that you have weighed up all the options when it comes to a new build vs an extension for your new home. If you’re still unsure or would like some more information please feel free to contact us and we can guide you in the right direction.