Melanson Homes & Renovations
Whether you’re exploring Calgary renovations or planning to build a new home in Calgary, the right decision depends on three key factors: your goals, your budget, and your timeline. At Melanson Homes, we help clients weigh these factors to make the right choice for them.
Renovating
Advantages:
- Stay Where You Love: Renovating allows you to remain in the community and home you’re already invested in. Want more square footage? Consider building out (an addition) or up (a second-storey addition) to increase your home’s footprint.
- Cost-Effective: Renovations are often more affordable than building new, especially if the existing structure and systems are in good shape.
- Faster Project Timelines: Compared to designing and constructing a new custom home, many renovations can be completed in a shorter timeframe.
- Increased Resale Value: Renovations like kitchens, bathrooms, basement developments, and legal suites can significantly boost your property value and appeal to future buyers —especially in the competitive Calgary renovations
- Flexibility: Renovate only the spaces and rooms that make sense for you and your budget.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Hidden Complications: Especially in older homes, hidden “surprises”—like mold, wiring, or foundation issues—can result in cost overruns. It’s wise to have a contingency fund.
- Life Interruptions: Living through renovations can be frustrating. Washing dishes in the bathroom sink while your kitchen is out of commission or living in the basement can disrupt your daily life. Temporarily relocating might be a wise decision but could mean extra costs.
A Modern Transformation Whole Home Renovation
Building New
Advantages:
- Total Customization: The sky—and your budget—are the only limits when it comes to designing and building your dream home from the ground up. From a gourmet kitchen with a butler’s pantry to a mudroom with a dog wash station, your wish list becomes reality. With a custom home, you can tailor it to your exact needs and preferences.
- Modern Efficiency & Materials: With a new home, you’ll benefit from the latest construction techniques and technologies. Many Calgary new homes now feature advanced energy efficiency standards and low-maintenance materials.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Higher Upfront Costs: Building a new home typically involves more substantial costs, including land, permits, and utility hookups. However, if you’re not loving where you’re living, it can be worth it to find your dream lot and build a home perfectly suited to your lifestyle.
- Extended Timelines: From design and permitting to construction, a custom home can take several months or longer to complete.
- Possible Delays: External factors such as weather, material availability, or municipal permitting can affect progress. Partnering with an experienced builder (like us!) can help mitigate these risks.
- Moving Twice: Packing and moving is never fun—especially if you need to move out of your current home and into temporary quarters during the construction process. But knowing that you’ll be moving into your dream home—built to your exact specifications—makes it worthwhile in the end.
Custom Modern Farmhouse New Build
For more inspiration, check out some of our other home renovation and custom home projects in our Project Collection.
At Melanson Homes, we’ve helped dozens of clients navigate the decision between Calgary renovations and Calgary new homes. Our team can help you determine which option fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.