If you’re knee-deep in research around building a new home, you’ve probably come across the alternative of a whole home renovation. There are perks to both renovating or building something from the ground up. At Nixon Custom Homes, we have been building award-winning homes in Dallas for over 30 years. We like to keep our clients educated—including understanding why a whole home renovation may or may not be for them. Let’s explore the details.
Whole Home Renovation
A whole home renovation involves updating and modernizing an existing structure. This option is ideal for homeowners who are in a few different situations.
When it makes sense:
- If you love your current location but need more space and modern amenities.
- If you have your heart set on a historic building or property.
- If you’re set on building your residence in a historic neighborhood.
- If you’re looking to customize a home, but concerned about cost.
The Advantages:
If you’re looking to stay in your neighborhood or claim your spot in a historic neighborhood, this is a huge perk. Renovations can also present significant cost savings (depending on the structure you’re starting with). Whole home renovations can also be great for preserving the historic character of a property while adding modern amenities.
The Challenges:
With a whole home renovation, you lose much control over the layout of the home. Your customization comes into play mostly in the aesthetics, added space, and amenities. Additionally, older homes are known for unexpected problems, like outdated plumbing or wiring, which may increase costs.
New Construction
New construction allows you to design and build a home from the ground up, fitting every detail to your vision and needs. This path is perfect for those who want a completely fresh start with a home that’s tailored to their specifications.
When it makes sense:
- If you want complete control over the design, layout, and features of your home.
- If you’re looking for a modern, energy-efficient home with the latest technology and materials.
- If you have a specific vision for your home that existing properties cannot accommodate.
- If you prefer to avoid the potential hidden issues and maintenance concerns associated with older homes.
- If you want a home tailored to your future needs, such as retirement or accommodating growing families.
The Advantages:
The key here is true customization. Every aspect of the home, from layout to finishes, is designed to your preferences. Additionally, new homes can be built with the high-performance building strategies and materials, saving on utilities and maintenance over time.
With a new construction project we schedule a walkthrough for 3 months after move-in day. At that walkthrough, we resolve any issues that have arisen since the project completion. We will repeat this same process again 11 months after construction is completed, but prior to the standard one year manufacturer warranty expiration to proactively address any issues that popped up.
New construction means fewer surprises, complete customization, and the best available materials & appliances.
The Challenges:
With this amount of control over the end result comes longer timelines and higher costs. Building a new home from scratch typically takes longer than renovating an existing one. Also, new construction can be more expensive upfront, though it may balance out over time with fewer repairs and modern efficiencies.
Factors to Consider
When deciding between a whole home renovation and new construction, consider the following:
- Budget: What are you willing to spend, and how does that align with the expected costs of renovation versus new construction?
- Timeline: How quickly do you need the project completed? Renovations can sometimes be quicker, but that depends on the extent of the work.
- Personal Preferences: Do you prefer maintaining a historic or sentimental home, or do you want a fresh start with a brand new design?
Which One Is For You?
| Factor | Whole Home Renovation | New Construction |
| Customization | Moderate, within existing structure | High, with total control over design |
| Cost | Potentially lower, but can vary | Higher initial costs, long-term savings |
| Timeline | Generally shorter, but depends on scope | Typically longer due to starting from scratch |
| Hidden Issues | Possible, especially in older homes | Minimal, as everything is new |
| Energy Efficiency | Limited to upgrades | High, with modern materials and technologies |
| Location | Same as current home | New, depending on land availability |
Luxury Homes in Dallas, TX
We offer both new constructions and whole home renovations to secure your spot in Dallas’s historic districts and flourishing new neighborhoods. Nixon Custom Homes has been building luxury homes through Dallas, Texas for over 30 years. As an award-winning builder, we combine exceptional craftsmanship and efficient strategies with an emphasis on luxury and strict attention to detail to deliver exceptional home construction that lasts.Schedule a consultation today to get started.
