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Should I remodel my house or rebuild it?

Deciding when to update your Seattle home and when to start over

If you’ve ever stared at the growing list of things you want to change in your home and thought, “Maybe we should just start from scratch?” you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we’re asked is whether to remodel or rebuild. There are many factors that go into this decision—some technical, some financial and some emotional.

To remodel or rebuild? That is the question. Here are some things to consider:

Is your home structurally sound?

One of the first things to consider when you’re deciding whether to update or start over is the condition of your home. If it has no issues with its foundation, roof or load-bearing walls, it might be a good candidate for a remodel. However, if there are structural issues on top of the layout and aesthetic changes you’d like to make, you may need to do a more thorough cost/benefit analysis.

What’s your budget?

Rebuilds are generally more expensive than remodels. That being said, the more things you want or need to change in your house, the more expensive the remodel. If you’re looking at a whole house remodel in the Seattle area, you’ll still likely save some money over a new build, but permits, structural engineering and unforeseen issues in older homes can add up. In terms of resale value, new homes usually command higher prices, unless the character and architectural style of your old home is highly sought-after.

What’s your tolerance for disruption?

Rebuilds typically take longer than remodels—but that isn’t always the case. Smaller remodels can be done in a matter of months (once the permits are approved) and typically allow you to stay in your home. But if you’re looking at a whole-house remodel, your timeline might be closer to a rebuild and you’ll need to move out for either option.

How sentimental are you?

If you have a strong emotional attachment to your home, really consider whether you’re ready to see the home you love get demolished. Remodeling can bring up all sorts of emotions, but a demo on the place where your kids grew up can be unexpectedly traumatic for some people. If any sort of alteration seems daunting, consider buying a new house with the express intent of remodeling or rebuilding. If you love your home but some elements have always been begging for an upgrade, a remodel of your existing house is probably your best bet. And if you always knew your house wasn’t the right fit for your family, your house is likely a good candidate for a demo and rebuild.

Consult a professional

Every family’s needs are different and every home and the land it stands on is different. With a decision as complicated as choosing whether to remodel or rebuild, it’s best to work with an experienced, local contracting firm like Axiom Design Build.

If you’re considering updating your home, we’d love to talk! Axiom’s experienced team of in-house designers, architects and builders are ready to provide expert guidance on your Seattle remodel or rebuild. Get started

 

How do I begin my remodeling project?

Tips on starting your Seattle remodel from Axiom Design Build

It might have started when you saw your neighbors’ gorgeous new kitchen. Maybe you binge-watched some home improvement shows. Or maybe you’ve wanted a change for years and are finally ready to take the plunge. Whatever the cause, you’ve got remodeling on the brain. But where should the remodeling-curious Seattleite begin?

Get your dream home

Your first order of business is to spend some time thinking about your dreams for your house. What would it look like? What would it feel like? Would it have more space? Another bathroom? A chef’s kitchen?

Ask yourself what you love about your house and what you’d like to change. Are the changes you’d like to make simply design upgrades? Or do you have functional needs and concerns you’d like to address? Make a list of everything you need and everything you want in your Seattle remodel.

Find inspiration for your remodel

The best way to nail down your vision is to explore other projects. Browse through home magazines, check out home improvement shows, attend open houses and look through websites like Pinterest and Architectural Digest or inspiration. Take note of everything you’re drawn to, from layouts and flow to design finishes, fixtures and cabinets. It’s also important to identify what you don’t want, as that will help any designer you work with steer clear of those elements.

This phase of your exploration is a great time to make sure you’re on the same page with other members of your household. It’s best to get any surprises into the open before you start working with your Seattle remodeling firm.

Set a budget for your remodel

Now that you’ve got your dream, it’s time to bring in an element of reality. Sit down with your finances and determine the absolute maximum you’re willing to spend for your remodeling project. It’s important to have 15-20% set aside to cover any unexpected expenses, so remove 20% from your maximum spend to determine your project budget.

It can be helpful to research rough cost estimates for your project type in your area. If your budget lines up with the scope of your project, you’re in luck! If there’s a huge discrepancy, consider scaling back on the size of the project. When in doubt, reach out to Axiom Design Build, or a trusted remodeler in your area to answer your questions and help you determine what’s possible with your budget. A professional building firm should know the ins and outs of local regulations, the permitting process, environmental considerations and the latest costs for materials and labor.

Are you considering updating your home and need a top Seattle remodeling contractor or Design Build firm? Let’s talk

How long will my remodel take?

Demystifying the building and remodeling process

One of the top questions we get from our clients is, “How long will my remodeling or building project take?” While every home is different and a lot depends on the size, site, scope and nature of the project, here’s a rough idea of what you can expect from a design build project in the Seattle area:

Client Engagement: 3-4 Weeks

Initial call. Site visit. Office visit.

After you contact us, we’ll give you a call to find out more about your project and schedule a visit to your project site. During the site visit we’ll chat more about your vision and take measurements and photos of your property. Then we’ll invite you to the Axiom office in Ballard so you can meet your team, review the proposal and discuss the process.

Design: 3-9 Months

Signing the proposal. Pre-design + client inspiration. Design meetings 1-3. Permit intake. Fourth design meeting.

When you’ve signed the design proposal, we’ll begin the pre-design process, at which time we’ll ask you to send your wish list and inspiration photos. We’ll set up a first design meeting to review initial conceptual design, site plans, floor plans, exterior massing and budget estimates.

During the second design meeting we’ll review any design changes as well as budget and schedule development. For the third design meeting, we’ll review the plan, budget, electrical, interior design, materials and cabinetry, if applicable. Axiom will then submit your permits for review. In the fourth design meeting, you’ll review the plan and the budget; and select your fixtures, finishes, windows and doors. Permit corrections will be addressed as needed in the coming weeks.

Buyout: 8-12 Weeks

Sign off on drawings and specs. Review buyout budget. Contract documents. Permit approval.

When you sign off on the drawings and specs for your project, we’ll put together the buyout budget, which includes contracts and agreements with our suppliers and any subcontractors. After you sign off on the buyout, you’ll enter into a construction agreement, when you’ll review the construction contract and submit your deposit. We’ll sit tight while we wait for your permit to be approved by the building department. As soon as we receive the green light, we’ll be ready to begin construction.

Construction: 4-12 Months

Pre-construction meeting. Bi-weekly site meetings. Final walk-through.

With the contracts signed and permits in hand, we’ll meet with you to establish site-specific expectations before we mobilize our team. Once we begin construction, we’ll meet with you every other week at your project site to review active work and project milestones. When the project wraps up, we’ll do a final walk through with you, get feedback on your experience, and toast to a successful project!

Maintenance & Service Warranty: 1 Year

Ready to get started? Let’s talk