3. Can You Live in the Home During Construction? Remodel a House
Construction can severely impact your daily life, especially if you have a family, work from home, or rely on predictable routines. Remodel a House
At MGS Contracting Services, we’ve helped countless clients plan their renovations and rebuilds, and one of the first logistical questions we address is: Remodel a House
“Can you live in your home while construction is underway?” Remodel a House
Let’s break it down so you understand what to expect from both a home remodel and a complete rebuild, and how this decision affects your comfort, costs, and construction timeline. Remodel a House
CREDIT: PINTEREST
Living in the Home During a Remodel Remodel a House
Remodeling a house often allows you to stay put. This is a major advantage if you’re looking to save on temporary housing or avoid the stress of moving. Remodel a House
However, living in a house during a remodel isn’t always easy. You’ll need to be prepared for:
- Noise and dust: Sawing, drilling, and demolition are loud—and messy. Remodel a House
- Limited space: Key rooms (like the kitchen or bathrooms) may be off-limits at different stages.
- Disrupted routines: Daily activities like cooking, bathing, and working from home may be affected.
- Safety hazards: Exposed wiring, sharp tools, and debris can pose risks—especially to kids and pets.
When Staying Is Feasible: Remodel a House
MGS Contracting Services typically advises homeowners that remaining in the home is realistic when:
- The remodel is limited to one or two rooms (e.g., kitchen or master bath) Remodel a House
- Work is being done in phases, allowing parts of the house to remain functional Remodel a House
- No major systems (like HVAC or electrical) are completely shut down Remodel a House
- You’re comfortable with short-term discomfort in exchange for saving on rent Remodel a House
MGS Pro Tip: Remodel a House
“Always discuss your living plans with your contractor upfront,” advises our team at MGS Contracting Services.
“We can help coordinate the schedule so essential spaces—like a bathroom or kitchen—are never out of service for too long. Planning makes all the difference.” Remodel a House
Living in the Home During a Rebuild? Not an Option. Remodel a House
If you choose to rebuild your house, staying on-site is virtually impossible. A full rebuild involves:
- Total demolition of the existing structure Remodel a House
Remodel a House - Major excavation and foundation work Remodel a House
Remodel a House - Rebuilding the home frame, walls, roof, and systems from the ground up Remodel a House
Remodel a House
This level of work creates an environment that’s uninhabitable. There’s no electricity, plumbing, heating, or safe shelter from weather. In most cities, local building codes also prohibit occupancy during full-scale rebuilds.
What to Expect: Remodel a House
- You’ll need temporary housing for at least 6–12 months, depending on the scale of the rebuild
- You may need to move twice—once into a rental and again when your new home is complete
- You’ll incur storage costs for your furniture and personal items Remodel a House
- Daily site access may be restricted due to safety and insurance regulations Remodel a House
Factor Temporary Housing Into Your Rebuild Budget Remodel a House
One of the hidden costs of choosing to rebuild a house is temporary living expenses. Many homeowners underestimate just how much this can impact the overall budget. Remodel a House
Let’s look at a basic estimate: Remodel a House
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
| Short-term rental (6–12 months) | $12,000 – $36,000+ |
| Storage unit rental | $1,000 – $3,000+ |
| Moving services (2 moves) | $1,500 – $4,000+ |
| Utilities and rental deposits | $500 – $2,000+ |
| Commuting / travel time | Varies by location |
You could be looking at $15,000 to $45,000+ in additional housing costs alone. That’s a significant factor to consider when deciding whether to rebuild a house or remodel a house. Remodel a House
Family Considerations: Kids, Pets, and Emotional Stress Remodel a House
Whether you’re staying or relocating, think about how the living situation will impact your family’s mental and emotional well-being. Remodel a House
Children Remodel a House
- Kids may struggle with routine disruptions Remodel a House
- Loud construction noise can be distressing, especially for young children or babies Remodel a House
- Safety becomes a major concern with tools, ladders, and dust present Remodel a House
Pets Remodel a House
- Dogs and cats can become anxious due to noise and unfamiliar people entering the home
- Construction areas are hazardous to pets—they can easily step on nails or ingest harmful materials
Stress Management Remodel a House
- Living in a construction zone, no matter how well-managed, creates tension
- Decisions, delays, and dust can increase stress levels, especially over months
“Think about what daily life will look like during your project,” says a lead project manager at MGS Contracting Services.
“If the idea of cooking meals in a makeshift kitchen or sleeping through demolition noise sounds exhausting, you may want to stay elsewhere even during a remodel.”
Which Option Works Best for Your Lifestyle?
Here’s how MGS Contracting Services helps clients determine what’s best for them:
| Factor | Remodel | Rebuild |
| Can you live in the house? | Often, yes | No – you must relocate |
| Impact on daily routine | Medium | High |
| Cost of temporary housing | Usually none or minimal | $15,000 – $45,000+ |
| Safety concerns | Manageable with precautions | Significant – site is unsafe |
| Family disruption | Temporary inconvenience | Long-term relocation |
How to Make the Right Decision
Here are some guiding questions from MGS Contracting Services to help you decide whether living in your home during construction is right for you:
- Are you renovating a portion of the home or the entire structure?
- Is there another full bathroom or kitchen you can use?
- Are you or your family members sensitive to dust, noise, or disruption?
- Do you have the budget for temporary housing if needed?
- Will your lifestyle allow for flexibility and patience?
Key Takeaway
When deciding whether to rebuild a house or remodel a house, don’t underestimate the impact your living situation will have on the project—and your sanity.
If you’re remodeling, staying in the home can save money but requires compromise. If you’re rebuilding, make a plan (and a budget) for temporary living arrangements early in the process.
What Is the Current Condition of the House?
One of the most pivotal factors in determining whether to rebuild a house or remodel a house is the current condition of the existing structure. You can’t make an informed, cost-effective decision without first understanding what lies beneath the surface of your walls, floors, and foundation.
We stress the importance of a thorough inspection before making any big decisions. You need to know if your house is a strong candidate for remodeling—or if it’s structurally unsound and simply not worth salvaging.
Let’s break this down in detail.
When You Should Rebuild Your House
A rebuild is not just about aesthetics—it becomes the smartest and safest choice when your existing home’s core elements are beyond repair or functionally obsolete. If the bones of the house are failing, remodeling is like putting a fresh coat of paint on a collapsing wall.
Here are the red flags that strongly suggest it’s time to rebuild a house:
1. Foundation Damage
The foundation is literally what holds your house up. If it’s cracked, crumbling, sinking, or shifting, your home is structurally compromised.
Signs of foundation trouble:
- Large horizontal or stair-step cracks in the walls or basement
- Doors and windows that don’t open or close properly
- Uneven floors or sloping rooms
- Moisture intrusion in the basement
According to MGS Contracting Services, foundation repairs can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $60,000+, depending on severity. When the damage is extensive, it’s often more cost-effective to tear down and start fresh with a structurally sound slab or basement.
2. Compromised Framing and Load-Bearing Elements
If your home has suffered severe termite damage, rot, water intrusion, or fire damage, the internal framing may be weakened. The structural skeleton of the house—joists, beams, and studs—needs to be intact for any safe remodel.
“You can’t build beautiful finishes on a crumbling frame,” warns MGS Contracting Services.
“If you want a home that lasts for decades, you need a rock-solid structure beneath it.”
3. Desire to Change the Floor Plan or Add Levels
If you want to dramatically reconfigure your layout or go vertical with a second or third story, you may hit engineering and design limits with the existing home.
Challenges include:
- Load capacity issues
- Height restrictions
- Incompatible rooflines
- Costly retrofitting of old systems to support new designs
In many cases, it makes more financial and structural sense to rebuild a house from the ground up, incorporating your vision into a completely new design rather than forcing it onto an outdated footprint.
4. Hazardous Building Materials
Homes built before the 1980s often contain outdated or dangerous materials like:
- Asbestos (used in insulation, ceiling tiles, siding)
- Lead paint (a serious health hazard, especially for children)
- Old electrical systems (such as knob-and-tube wiring)
Removing or encapsulating these materials is not only costly—it can disrupt the flow of your remodel and create new code compliance issues.
MGS Contracting Services strongly recommends rebuilding if remediation costs begin to compete with the price of new construction.
5. Worn-Out Major Systems (All at Once)
If your electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and roof systems are all nearing end-of-life, the cost of replacing them can rival building a new home.
“We often see homes that need $200,000+ in repairs before any finishes are even touched,” says the team at MGS.
“When you’re facing that kind of investment just to get to square one, rebuilding can be the smarter move.”
When You Can Remodel Your House
Not all homes are money pits. If the structure is solid and the issues are more aesthetic or localized, remodeling may be the more practical and rewarding path forward.
Here are the ideal conditions for choosing to remodel a house:
1. Strong Foundation and Structural Integrity
If your home sits on a level, solid foundation and the framing is in good condition, that’s a green light for remodeling.
MGS Contracting Services always recommends a pre-remodel inspection to assess:
- Foundation cracks and movement
- Roof structure and framing
- Condition of load-bearing walls
- Attic and basement integrity
If these all check out, you’re in a great position to start planning a transformative remodel.
2. Cosmetic or Isolated Issues
If your biggest complaints are outdated finishes, inefficient room layouts, or a worn kitchen and bath, remodeling is typically more cost-effective than rebuilding.
Example remodel projects:
- Kitchen upgrades with custom cabinetry and quartz countertops
- Bathroom renovations with new fixtures, tile, and lighting
- Reconfiguring walls to open the floor plan
- New windows, doors, and insulation for energy efficiency
These upgrades can significantly improve quality of life and resale value—without the stress or expense of starting from scratch.
3. Preserving Architectural Character
Do you own a craftsman, colonial, Victorian, or mid-century modern home with beautiful details? Remodeling allows you to retain the charm and history of your home while upgrading its function.
Features worth preserving:
- Original hardwood floors
- Hand-carved moldings and trims
- Vintage fireplaces or millwork
- Arched doorways and vaulted ceilings
MGS Contracting Services has helped many homeowners blend old-world character with modern convenience—and that’s something a brand-new build often can’t replicate.
4. Targeted Improvements with Strategic ROI
Sometimes, less is more. A well-planned remodel focuses investment in the areas that offer the best return on investment (ROI)—like kitchens, bathrooms, and energy efficiency.
This approach is ideal when:
- You plan to sell within 5–10 years
- You want to make your home more marketable
- You’re aiming for luxury updates without rebuilding
MGS Contractor Insight: Compare Scope and Cost Carefully
“We always advise homeowners to create two side-by-side estimates,” says MGS Contracting Services.
“One for the total cost of remodeling and one for tearing down and rebuilding. When the remodeling estimate hits 70–80% of new construction costs, it’s time to rethink.”
How to Get a Structural Assessment Before You Decide
Before you commit to rebuild a house or remodel a house, schedule a professional inspection. Key assessments should include:
- Foundation analysis
- Framing integrity check
- Electrical system age and safety
- Plumbing condition
- Roof life expectancy
- Hazardous materials testing
MGS Contracting Services can coordinate this inspection for you and help interpret the findings so you can make a confident, cost-effective decision.
Summary: When to Remodel vs. When to Rebuild Based on Condition
| Condition | Best Option | Why |
| Solid foundation, minor cosmetic issues | Remodel | Less expensive, maintains charm, easier logistics |
| Damaged foundation or framing | Rebuild | Safety risk, cost to repair rivals new construction |
| Hazardous materials present | Rebuild | Safer and more efficient to start fresh |
| All systems at end-of-life | Rebuild | Systems overhaul equals or exceeds rebuild cost |
| Desire to preserve historical features | Remodel | Keeps architectural charm intact |
| Desire for completely new floor plan | Rebuild | Easier to design from scratch |
Real Estate Comparables and Neighborhood Value
When faced with the decision to rebuild a house or remodel a house, one of the most overlooked—yet crucial—steps is evaluating your neighborhood’s real estate landscape. This isn’t just about your personal preferences or structural integrity. It’s about how your investment fits within the market trends of your area.
At MGS Contracting Services, we always recommend homeowners take a hard look at real estate comparables, commonly referred to as “comps”, before committing to a major construction decision. Understanding how your home stacks up to others in the neighborhood can determine whether you’re boosting your value—or overcapitalizing.
Let’s break this down.
What Are Real Estate Comps?
Real estate comparables are recently sold homes in your neighborhood that are similar in size, condition, layout, and age to your own property. They provide a benchmark for what buyers are willing to pay in your market—and what appraisers and lenders will use to determine your home’s value after renovation or rebuild.
If you plan to rebuild a house or remodel a house, analyzing comps is essential because:
- It ensures you stay within your market’s pricing ceiling
- It helps identify the sweet spot for renovations or new construction
- It prevents you from overspending on a home that can’t support it
How to Analyze Neighborhood Value
Here’s what MGS Contracting Services suggests you look for when evaluating whether to rebuild a house or remodel a house based on local market value:
When Rebuilding Might Make Sense Based on Neighborhood Trends
You may be a candidate for rebuilding your house if:
- Multiple nearby homes have already been rebuilt or are new construction
- Local listings show high values per square foot for new homes
- You want your home to match the modern look and amenities of the neighborhood
- The lot value exceeds the structure value (common in high-demand areas)
Example: If your lot is worth $400,000 and the current home is only worth $150,000 in its current state, but new homes in the area are selling for $1M+, you’re sitting on a goldmine. Rebuilding may yield a significantly higher return on investment.
“In gentrifying or up-and-coming areas, rebuilding can turn a modest property into a top-tier asset,” explains MGS Contracting Services.
“It aligns with where the neighborhood is headed—not where it used to be.”
When Remodeling Might Be the Smarter Play
On the other hand, remodeling makes more sense if:
- Most homes nearby are of similar age and condition
- The area has historic charm or architectural consistency you don’t want to disrupt
- Your improvements will bring your home in line with comps, but not exceed them
- The local market has a value ceiling that new construction can’t justify
Example: In a neighborhood where homes rarely sell for over $600,000—even fully updated ones—investing $900,000 to rebuild a house doesn’t make financial sense. A targeted remodel costing $150,000–$250,000 might bring your home to that ceiling without overspending.
What is “Overcapitalizing”?
Overcapitalizing happens when you invest more in a property than the market will return, either in resale or equity. This is a real risk when trying to decide whether to rebuild a house or remodel a house—especially in neighborhoods with strict market limits.
Warning signs you may be overcapitalizing:
- Your planned investment is more than 20–30% above the neighborhood average
- Your home would be the largest, most expensive, or newest in a community of aging homes
- Appraisers flag your home as “over-improved for the area”
“We’ve seen homeowners spend $700,000 on a rebuild in a $400,000 neighborhood—and lose equity the moment they move in,” says MGS Contracting Services.
“It’s essential to match your project’s scope with what the market will actually support.”
Smart Strategy: How to Use Comps in Your Planning Process
Step 1: Pull Local Comps
You can ask a real estate agent, use online platforms like Zillow or Redfin, or request a market analysis from a licensed appraiser. Look at:
- Homes sold within the last 6–12 months
- Properties within a 1-mile radius (or within your school district)
- Homes with similar square footage, bedrooms, and lot sizes
Step 2: Compare Features
Are nearby homes offering amenities your current home lacks? Such as:
- Open floor plans
- Modern kitchens and baths
- Energy-efficient upgrades
- New HVAC, windows, roofs
If these are standard, and your home is far behind, you may need more than just cosmetic remodeling to compete.
Step 3: Run the Numbers
Take your current home value and compare it to projected post-remodel or post-rebuild values. Then compare that to the cost of each project.
| Scenario | Current Value | Remodel Cost | Rebuild Cost | Projected Value | Profit or Loss |
| Remodel | $350,000 | $200,000 | — | $575,000 | +$25,000 |
| Rebuild | $350,000 | — | $600,000 | $800,000 | -$150,000 |
In this example, a remodel makes far more financial sense unless you’re planning to live in the home for 20+ years.
What MGS Contracting Services Recommends
At MGS Contracting Services, our experts perform pre-construction market evaluations for clients. We help you understand:
- How much your home is worth now
- What it could be worth after a remodel or rebuild
- How it compares to your neighbors’ homes
- Whether your investment will be recouped—or lost
We combine contractor insight with real estate data to ensure you’re making the best long-term decision, whether you decide to rebuild a house or remodel a house.
Summary: What to Do with Real Estate Comparables
| If Nearby Homes Are… | Best Option | Why |
| New builds or fully upgraded | Rebuild | Match modern standards and maximize property value |
| Older but well-maintained | Remodel | Stay in line with neighborhood style and pricing |
| Selling below your investment threshold | Remodel | Avoid overcapitalizing |
| Selling at a premium for new homes | Rebuild | Justifies higher investment in a brand-new property |
| Full of character and history | Remodel | Preserve charm while modernizing selectively |
6. Zoning Laws and Building Permits: Understanding Regulations for Rebuilding or Remodeling Your Home
When deciding whether to rebuild a house or remodel a house, local zoning laws and building permits are essential aspects that can significantly influence your decision-making process. These regulations govern everything from the size of the home you can build to how far from the property lines your new construction can extend. Before beginning any project, it’s vital to understand these rules so that you can proceed with confidence and avoid costly setbacks.
At MGS Contracting Services, we emphasize the importance of doing your due diligence with zoning and permits. These elements can either limit your renovation possibilities or unlock exciting new opportunities. Let’s take a deep dive into how these factors impact your choice between rebuilding and remodeling.
What Are Zoning Laws and Building Permits?
Zoning laws are a set of regulations that dictate how properties in specific geographic areas can be used. These laws are designed to ensure that developments are appropriate for the surrounding environment and do not negatively affect neighboring properties. For example, zoning laws can regulate:
- Land use (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.)
- Building height
- Building setbacks (how far structures must be from property lines)
- Lot coverage (the amount of the lot that can be built on)
- Parking requirements
Building permits, on the other hand, are legal documents required before construction or renovation can begin. These permits ensure that your project meets local safety codes and regulations, including those that govern electrical, plumbing, structural integrity, and fire safety.
Rebuilding a House: Zoning and Permitting Challenges
When considering whether to rebuild a house, there are usually more zoning and permitting obstacles to overcome. This is especially true in older neighborhoods or areas with strict historic preservation guidelines.
Challenges of Rebuilding:
- Footprint Limitations
- Rebuilding often means demolishing the existing home entirely, but you may still be limited by the original footprint of the structure. Many municipalities will not allow a new build to extend beyond the original boundaries of the demolished home. This means you could face restrictions on the size or shape of your new house.
- Rebuilding often means demolishing the existing home entirely, but you may still be limited by the original footprint of the structure. Many municipalities will not allow a new build to extend beyond the original boundaries of the demolished home. This means you could face restrictions on the size or shape of your new house.
- Height and Setback Regulations
- Local zoning laws also typically regulate how tall your house can be and how far back it must be from the street or side property lines (setbacks). In some cases, if you want to add multiple stories or increase the square footage, you may need to obtain a variance or special approval from local zoning boards.
- Local zoning laws also typically regulate how tall your house can be and how far back it must be from the street or side property lines (setbacks). In some cases, if you want to add multiple stories or increase the square footage, you may need to obtain a variance or special approval from local zoning boards.
- Increased Permit and Inspection Requirements
- Rebuilding a home generally involves a more complex permit process than remodeling. You’ll need approval for things like foundation work, electrical systems, and structural integrity, and you’ll likely need more inspections throughout the construction process to ensure everything meets building codes.
- Rebuilding a home generally involves a more complex permit process than remodeling. You’ll need approval for things like foundation work, electrical systems, and structural integrity, and you’ll likely need more inspections throughout the construction process to ensure everything meets building codes.
- Neighbor Concerns and Public Hearings
- In some areas, especially neighborhoods with a strong community focus, rebuilding a home may require a public hearing where neighbors can voice concerns about the new design. This may delay your project and add complexity to the process.
- In some areas, especially neighborhoods with a strong community focus, rebuilding a home may require a public hearing where neighbors can voice concerns about the new design. This may delay your project and add complexity to the process.
Zoning Restrictions for New Builds:
- Lot Size and Density: Zoning codes can restrict how much of the lot you can use for building. In some residential areas, you might not be able to build a multi-story home or add large additions.
- Historical Preservation: Some districts may have historic preservation zoning, which requires you to maintain the architectural character of the area. In such cases, even if you plan to rebuild, the style of your new home may be restricted to preserve the neighborhood’s charm.
Contractor Tip: MGS Contracting Services emphasizes that it’s always best to consult a local architect or zoning professional before considering a rebuild. They can advise you on any potential hurdles or restrictions specific to your area, helping to avoid surprises down the line.
Remodeling a House: Easier to Navigate Zoning and Permits
In contrast, remodeling a house typically comes with fewer zoning challenges. Since you are working within the existing footprint of your home, your project is usually subject to less scrutiny by local zoning authorities.
Advantages of Remodeling:
- Fewer Footprint Restrictions
- Since you are keeping the existing structure, zoning laws that govern the footprint of your house are not as restrictive. This means fewer challenges in terms of increasing the size of rooms or reconfiguring your space.
- Since you are keeping the existing structure, zoning laws that govern the footprint of your house are not as restrictive. This means fewer challenges in terms of increasing the size of rooms or reconfiguring your space.
- Easier Permitting Process
- Remodeling projects usually face faster permit approvals. Because you are not building something entirely new, the local government is typically more focused on ensuring that your remodel meets safety standards and adheres to building codes rather than dealing with more complex zoning issues related to land use or building height.
- Remodeling projects usually face faster permit approvals. Because you are not building something entirely new, the local government is typically more focused on ensuring that your remodel meets safety standards and adheres to building codes rather than dealing with more complex zoning issues related to land use or building height.
- Minimal Disruption to the Existing Layout
- Remodeling keeps the foundation and the exterior walls intact. As long as the changes do not affect the overall structure or external design, many remodeling projects are considered “minor alterations” by local authorities. This reduces the chances of delays in obtaining permits and approvals.
- Remodeling keeps the foundation and the exterior walls intact. As long as the changes do not affect the overall structure or external design, many remodeling projects are considered “minor alterations” by local authorities. This reduces the chances of delays in obtaining permits and approvals.
- Lower Likelihood of Public Hearings
- With remodeling, you are generally working within the community’s accepted standards, meaning there’s less chance of neighbors raising concerns or a public hearing being required. This allows your project to proceed with fewer hurdles.
- With remodeling, you are generally working within the community’s accepted standards, meaning there’s less chance of neighbors raising concerns or a public hearing being required. This allows your project to proceed with fewer hurdles.
Permitting for Remodeling:
Though remodeling tends to be simpler, permits are still necessary for most projects. Some common remodels that require permits include:
- Electrical work
- Plumbing upgrades
- HVAC system changes
- Adding or altering walls (non-load-bearing)
- Window or door replacements
Even cosmetic upgrades, like new kitchens or bathroom remodels, might require certain permits, especially if plumbing or electrical systems are being modified.
Contractor Tip: MGS Contracting Services advises homeowners to factor in the permitting process when planning their remodel. Even though it’s generally quicker, obtaining the necessary permits still requires time, and ignoring them can lead to hefty fines or having to undo work.
Comparing the Zoning and Permitting Challenges for Rebuilding vs. Remodeling
| Factor | Rebuilding a House | Remodeling a House |
| Zoning Restrictions | Tighter regulations; limited by existing footprint | Fewer zoning challenges; remains within original boundaries |
| Permit Complexity | More permits required for new foundation, structure, and systems | Simpler permit process for alterations and updates |
| Timeline for Approvals | Longer due to inspections and hearings | Faster due to minimal disruption to original structure |
| Building Height | Limited by zoning laws (may require variance) | No height changes unless adding levels |
| Setback Limitations | Setbacks may be stricter for new builds | Setbacks are already met if working within existing footprint |
| Cost of Permitting | Potentially higher due to larger scope of work | Lower cost since remodels typically involve less structural work |
| Community Impact | May require public hearings, especially for new structures | Less likely to trigger neighbor concerns or public hearings |
Final Thoughts: Should You Rebuild a House or Remodel a House?
Choosing whether to rebuild a house or remodel a house is a significant decision that every homeowner may face at some point. It’s not simply about aesthetic preferences or current needs; it involves considering several long-term factors such as budget, lifestyle, property condition, and even zoning laws. At MGS Contracting Services, we understand that each situation is unique, and the best decision for one homeowner might not be the right choice for another. Let’s break down the key elements that should influence your decision.
Key Factors to Consider
- Budget: Your financial capabilities will play a huge role in determining the most suitable option. Remodeling can be a more budget-friendly solution if your home is still in good structural condition and you’re mainly looking to improve specific areas. On the other hand, if significant repairs are needed across various systems in the house, a full rebuild might be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Long-Term Goals: Are you planning to live in the home for the next few years, or is this a short-term investment for resale? Remodeling can be ideal if you want to make the house more comfortable or increase its resale value without committing to the high costs and timeline of a rebuild. Rebuilding, however, may be the right choice if you intend to stay long-term and want to customize every detail to fit your needs perfectly.
- Condition of the Property: As we discussed in previous sections, the age and state of your house will be one of the most significant factors in making your decision. If the foundation, structural integrity, and major systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC need serious repairs, then rebuilding might offer a better return on investment. If your house has solid bones but needs cosmetic updates, remodeling may be the way to go.
- Timeline: Both rebuilding and remodeling come with their own timelines, but a full rebuild will almost always take longer. Remodeling, depending on the extent of work, might allow you to stay in the home throughout the process, though you may face inconveniences. A rebuild will likely require you to relocate for an extended period, potentially up to several months.
- Zoning and Permitting: We’ve discussed how zoning laws and building permits can influence your decision. Remodeling tends to face fewer restrictions, especially if the changes are contained within the home’s original footprint. Rebuilding, however, might require you to navigate more complex zoning laws, which could add time and cost to your project.
The Best Approach: A Thorough Home Evaluation
According to MGS Contracting Services, the best approach to deciding whether to rebuild or remodel is to start with a thorough evaluation of your home. A professional contractor will conduct a detailed inspection to assess:
- The condition of the structure
- The age and efficiency of the home’s systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.)
- Any potential hazards (mold, foundation issues, outdated building materials)
- Space limitations for expansion or design changes
- Your long-term goals and vision for the property
Once the home evaluation is complete, the next step is to carefully weigh your financial capabilities and long-term plans. A good contractor will not only give you an estimate of the costs involved but will also provide insight into the return on investment for each option, whether it’s a remodel or a rebuild.
Why Work with MGS Contracting Services?
Making the right decision to either rebuild a house or remodel a house involves balancing several moving pieces: budget, design preferences, construction timelines, permitting, and zoning laws. Having a trusted contractor by your side will ensure that the entire process runs smoothly. MGS Contracting Services has been helping homeowners navigate these decisions for years, offering expertise in both residential remodeling and new construction projects.
By working with us, you can expect:
- Detailed home assessments that take into account structural integrity, safety, and design potential
- Honest advice tailored to your goals and budget, so you know exactly what your options are
- Clear timelines and project management that keep your build or remodel on track
- Expertise in zoning, permits, and local building codes to ensure your project complies with regulations
- Innovative design solutions that bring your vision to life without breaking the bank
Want Professional Guidance?
If you’re struggling with the decision to rebuild your house or remodel your house, contact MGS Contracting Services today. Our team of experienced professionals is here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial assessment and design to final construction and finishing touches.