Astro Homes By Design often get enquiries from clients wanting to add extensions or renovate existing structures, and it is almost always because they believe it is the cheapest option. However, if you’re planning an extensive renovation with a lot of structural changes, it’s often cheaper to start from scratch.

The advantage of knocking down and rebuilding is that you get to personalise everything from the layout of every bathroom to the style and number of windows in the living room, meaning you can create something that perfectly matches your lifestyle. Renovating, meanwhile, can be like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, and can often be more costly.

It’s important to look to the future, too. Generally speaking, new homes are more structurally sound, less susceptible to termites and more energy-efficient. They also come with added peace of mind, in the form of a construction warranty. This is why you’re probably better off knocking down and rebuilding if you want to make significant changes to your home.

Many people love their neighbourhood. The familiarity and convenience of staying in the same location are especially important to young families, with school zones and family routines being a priority.

Even if kids aren’t in the picture, you might love your suburb, street and neighbours too much to move. Many people love their suburb and community but may have outgrown or need to downsize their current property.

Creating your dream home with Astor Homes By Design is easier than trawling through the hundreds of homes on sale (that still might not fit the bill) or that involve renovations. Plus, renovating older homes runs the risks of uncovering piping or wires that wreak havoc on your timelines, stress levels and budgets.

Astor Homes is able to work with existing plans, or can assist you in creating a custom design from scratch – all you have to do is pick and choose the options that best suit you, your family and your lifestyle. You can also envision exactly what you’re getting from day one, by visiting our display home before you sign on the dotted line.

What’s more, you don’t have to do it alone. It pays to rely on the experience of an established builder and the capacity of their dedicated teams.

If your house is outdated or no longer matches your lifestyle, a knockdown rebuild lets you design a bespoke approach that takes advantage of modern floorplans and technologies.

Architecture and design have greatly evolved in recent years. You can choose a floor plan that fits a modern lifestyle. Kitchens and bathrooms have come a long way, as has energy efficient and sustainable technology that saves you money (and the environment) in the long term.

You can incorporate improved storage options, change-up ceiling heights or wall placements, or move your entire house to take advantage of views or sunlight.