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Remodeling vs. Buying: Should You Renovate or Start Fresh?

At the start of a new year, you have a ton of new and exciting ideas for your home. With new trends coming in for 2026, and your kitchen looking exactly like it did in 1999, it might be time for a little updating and renovations. However, as you start to think about that new kitchen, you also think about how a new bathroom would be nice too. And actually, you could afford to start thinking about that addition as a reality. With all these remodels adding up, many homeowners wonder whether it makes more sense to remodel their current home or start fresh with a new build or purchase. Both options offer their own benefits depending on your goals, budget, and timeline. Understanding the differences between remodeling vs. buying can help you make a decision that fits your lifestyle and long-term plans.

Cost and Time Considerations

Home renovation costs vary depending on the size of the project and materials used. Also, newly placed tariffs and constricted scheduling during certain times of the year can play a huge factor in your decision. A full-house remodel typically runs between $60 and $150 per square foot, with kitchens and bathrooms being the most expensive areas to update. These numbers depend on what the renovations are, how expensive your materials are, and your contractor’s personal prices. (Source)

Building a new home or buying new construction in Myrtle Beach often comes with higher upfront costs, averaging around $150 per square foot, not including land or site preparation. Remodels generally take a few months, while new builds can require 9 to 18 months from planning to move-in.

Pros and Cons: Remodeling vs. Buying

Remodeling — Pros

  • Typically less expensive upfront than buying new. This differs depending on how many renovations are you considering.

  • Allows you to stay in your current neighborhood and maintain community ties.

  • Projects can be phased, letting you update kitchens, bathrooms, or add rooms over time.

  • Working with an existing structure can provide a more predictable budget for certain upgrades.

Remodeling — Cons

  • Costs can increase if hidden issues like outdated wiring or plumbing are discovered. This depends on the age of your home and appliances.

  • Return on investment for major remodels is often moderate.

  • Mixing old and new elements may create a less cohesive overall design.

New Home or New Build — Pros

  • A clean slate with modern layouts, updated building codes, and energy-efficient systems.

  • Lower long-term maintenance and utility costs.

  • Full customization allows your home to meet your exact lifestyle and design preferences.

New Home or New Build — Cons

  • Higher upfront investment.

  • Longer timeline before moving in.

  • Additional costs may arise if you need to sell your current home first, such as closing fees and moving expenses.

When to Remodel and When to Build

Remodeling works well when your home has a solid structure, the location is desirable, and your goal is to update or expand without starting completely over. Kitchen, bathroom, or room additions can provide significant comfort and convenience while keeping costs manageable.

Building or buying new is often the better option when the home is outdated, when layout changes are extensive, or when you want energy-efficient, modern features. If the cost of renovations approaches the price of a new build, starting fresh may offer better long-term value.

Plan Your Home Goals for the New Year

As you set New Year’s goals for your home, start with a clear budget and a list of priorities. Compare renovation quotes against new build or purchase costs, and account for potential extra expenses like permits, inspections, or unexpected repairs. Consider how long you plan to stay in your home — remodels may suit short-term needs, while new construction can provide long-term comfort and value.

If you are thinking about a major home renovation or planning a fresh start, contact Re-Builders. Our team can help you determine whether remodeling the spaces in your home or starting the search for a new house makes the most sense for your budget, lifestyle, and goals. Start 2026 with a home that fits your vision.

We are here to help through your Grand Strand renovation journey. Contact Re-Builders to learn more about our home renovation options. Please give us a call at 843-448-0041 or request a quote here!

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It looks wonderful!

"Thank you so much for the great job you did on the entrance of our house.  It looks wonderful and your work was nothing less than superb!"


Ann Standish

2019-04-16T10:27:02-04:00

Ann Standish

"Thank you so much for the great job you did on the entrance of our house.  It looks wonderful and your work was nothing less than superb!"

Ray was very caring!

"(The job) went very well.  They did everything they were asked.  Workers were efficient, polite and showed up when needed.  Ray was very caring in paying attention to how his employees performed.  He got the permits and also the inspections.  Though it was a long process we are very happy with their attention to detail and very happy with the end result."


Carol Worden

2019-04-16T10:23:13-04:00

Carol Worden

"(The job) went very well.  They did everything they were asked.  Workers were efficient, polite and showed up when needed.  Ray was very caring in paying attention to how his employees performed.  He got the permits and also the inspections.  Though it was a long process we are very happy with their attention to detail and very happy with the end result."

Porch Looks Great!

"The porch looks great and we are very happy!"


Barbara Kohn

2019-04-16T09:58:28-04:00

Barbara Kohn

"The porch looks great and we are very happy!"

Porch Enclosure

"We are very pleased with the room (porch enclosure)! All of Re-Builders' workers and contractors were most responsive and willing to please!  We would certainly recommend Re-Builders to friends and neighbors!"


Debbie Strange

2019-04-16T10:22:15-04:00

Debbie Strange

"We are very pleased with the room (porch enclosure)! All of Re-Builders' workers and contractors were most responsive and willing to please!  We would certainly recommend Re-Builders to friends and neighbors!"

Nice Experience!

"It was really a nice experience working with you and your crew.  Thank you for helping us!"

 

Ray & Kathleen Weisel

2019-04-16T09:50:34-04:00

Ray & Kathleen Weisel

"It was really a nice experience working with you and your crew.  Thank you for helping us!"  

We are delighted!

“Ray, your work is of highest quality! The superior service you render and the positive attitude in which it is done is extraordinary! This goes for your personnel as well. They represent you in a very fine manner. They are great to work with-highest quality work, highly professional, positive attitude, strong customer service orientation, and friendly and accommodating.



Bill and Gloria Stubbs

2019-04-16T10:29:40-04:00

Bill and Gloria Stubbs

“Ray, your work is of highest quality! The superior service you render and the positive attitude in which it is done is extraordinary! This goes for your personnel as well. They represent you in a very fine manner. They are great to work with-highest quality work, highly professional, positive attitude, strong customer service orientation, and friendly and accommodating.

Outstanding Professional Job

"My wife and I are extremely pleased with the job Re-Builders did remodeling our condo.  Ray Floyd gave us a very impressive portfolio with references and vendors he recommended we use.  Ray and his foreman, Tim Todd, looked after every detail, and we were impressed with each and every vendor we chose.


Each vendor did an outstanding professional job in a timely manner.  We highly recommend Re-Builders for your remodeling needs!


-The Moores, Myrtle Beach

2021-05-19T14:39:55-04:00
"My wife and I are extremely pleased with the job Re-Builders did remodeling our condo.  Ray Floyd gave us a very impressive portfolio with references and vendors he recommended we use.  Ray and his foreman, Tim Todd, looked after every detail, and we were impressed with each and every vendor we chose. Each vendor did an outstanding professional job in a timely manner.  We highly recommend Re-Builders for your remodeling needs! -The Moores, Myrtle Beach

Featured Kitchen

“We are extremely pleased with the new kitchen. It is absolutely beautiful and so user-friendly! We appreciate your extra personal efforts and those of MarKraft designer, Dawn Jacobus, to assure that all space was effectively utilized and that the kitchen would have that very special look and feel. We also are very appreciative that the kitchen was so attractively featured in the fall 2003 issue of Coastal Carolina Home Styles."


Anonymous

2019-04-16T10:30:28-04:00

Anonymous

“We are extremely pleased with the new kitchen. It is absolutely beautiful and so user-friendly! We appreciate your extra personal efforts and those of MarKraft designer, Dawn Jacobus, to assure that all space was effectively utilized and that the kitchen would have that very special look and feel. We also are very appreciative that the kitchen was so attractively featured in the fall 2003 issue of Coastal Carolina Home Styles."

Very Professional & Friendly

"Chad Floyd was excellent.  The Re-Builders team was very professional & friendly.


They showed up on schedule & always cleaned up after themselves.


The end result is a beautiful bathroom, completed ahead of schedule."


-Weyman Yee, Myrtle Beach


 

Weyman Yee

2020-10-16T15:28:37-04:00

Weyman Yee

"Chad Floyd was excellent.  The Re-Builders team was very professional & friendly. They showed up on schedule & always cleaned up after themselves. The end result is a beautiful bathroom, completed ahead of schedule." -Weyman Yee, Myrtle Beach  

Responsive To All Our Concerns

"We contracted with Ray and his team to add a room to our home.  Everyone on the project was professional, courteous, and, above all, responsive to all our concerns.  The project came in on time and budget with personnel being very attentive to detail.  We would recommend them to anyone needing home improvement"  -Stan & Amanda Earl
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2023-01-31T16:16:33-05:00
"We contracted with Ray and his team to add a room to our home.  Everyone on the project was professional, courteous, and, above all, responsive to all our concerns.  The project came in on time and budget with personnel being very attentive to detail.  We would recommend them to anyone needing home improvement"  -Stan & Amanda Earl

The kitchen is beautiful!

"Bob & I wanted to thank you for the great job you did on our kitchen.  We appreciate all the care your workers took during construction and you working with us through all that was going on.  The kitchen is beautiful and we thank you"


Bob & Linda Waselus

2019-04-16T10:28:00-04:00

Bob & Linda Waselus

"Bob & I wanted to thank you for the great job you did on our kitchen.  We appreciate all the care your workers took during construction and you working with us through all that was going on.  The kitchen is beautiful and we thank you"

Felt very comfortable

“Connie and I felt very comfortable with you during your first visit to discuss our project. During the past months, you have displayed to us that you truly are a very honest man of high character and integrity. We can never remember a time doubting that you would do what you said you would. We commend you for your high standards and genuine concern for our satisfaction with your work.”


Bruce & Connie

2019-04-16T10:33:03-04:00

Bruce & Connie

“Connie and I felt very comfortable with you during your first visit to discuss our project. During the past months, you have displayed to us that you truly are a very honest man of high character and integrity. We can never remember a time doubting that you would do what you said you would. We commend you for your high standards and genuine concern for our satisfaction with your work.”

Polite, Tidy & Punctual

"Thank you to Chad Floyd & the crew. I am so pleased with my bathroom remodel.  All the workers have been polite, tidy, punctual, and performed excellent work."
-Judy Lewis, Myrtle Beach
2021-08-16T16:17:41-04:00
"Thank you to Chad Floyd & the crew. I am so pleased with my bathroom remodel.  All the workers have been polite, tidy, punctual, and performed excellent work." -Judy Lewis, Myrtle Beach

Bravo!

“Dear Ray, Deborah, Chad, Betty, Dawn and Crew – BRAVO! You took my 20 year old beach home and transformed it like magic! I do not believe anyone would ever think this is a remodel…. I am so proud it looks great! I appreciate everyone’s effort, dedication and professional way everything was handled. Your crew is top notch and please use my home to show your new clients.”


Linda Hewitt

2019-04-16T10:31:53-04:00

Linda Hewitt

“Dear Ray, Deborah, Chad, Betty, Dawn and Crew – BRAVO! You took my 20 year old beach home and transformed it like magic! I do not believe anyone would ever think this is a remodel…. I am so proud it looks great! I appreciate everyone’s effort, dedication and professional way everything was handled. Your crew is top notch and please use my home to show your new clients.”

Very Pleased!

"We are very pleased with Re-Builders' work.  Love our new hall bath!  Thank you to all involved."


Mary Wicker

2019-04-16T09:57:24-04:00

Mary Wicker

"We are very pleased with Re-Builders' work.  Love our new hall bath!  Thank you to all involved."

Impressed With Your Crew

"I just love it (screen porch)! I want to tell you how impressed I was with your crew....they were more than capable, courteous, worked in a timely fashion, accommodating, and cleaned up after themselves every day! I will certainly recommend your company to anyone who asks.

-K. Oberle, Myrtle Beach
2021-10-08T14:49:56-04:00
"I just love it (screen porch)! I want to tell you how impressed I was with your crew....they were more than capable, courteous, worked in a timely fashion, accommodating, and cleaned up after themselves every day! I will certainly recommend your company to anyone who asks. -K. Oberle, Myrtle Beach

Professionalism of your crew

"We ... have to comment on the professionalism of your crew. They were all easy to talk to and each one knowledgeable enough to answer any questions [we] had during the remodeling. They cleaned up at the end of each day and left the yard neat.


Glenda & Dan Connolly

2019-04-16T10:28:56-04:00

Glenda & Dan Connolly

"We ... have to comment on the professionalism of your crew. They were all easy to talk to and each one knowledgeable enough to answer any questions [we] had during the remodeling. They cleaned up at the end of each day and left the yard neat.

Beautiful renovation

"We would like to thank you and your staff for the beautiful renovation of our master bedroom and master bath. It looks exactly like we pictured it should be."


Doug & Kathy Cox

2019-04-16T10:31:18-04:00

Doug & Kathy Cox

"We would like to thank you and your staff for the beautiful renovation of our master bedroom and master bath. It looks exactly like we pictured it should be."

Very Polite and Always Very Helpful

“The entire Hudgens family wish to thank you and your whole staff and crew for the great job you did for us, in remodeling our beach house. We are pleased with how it all turned out and really like everything so much!


A special thank you to Dawn for all her hard work and patience with us in working together on the details. Also, we found the crew very polite and always very helpful. We will be happy to to recommend Re-Builders and thank you again for your work and expertise.”


                                                                                                        -Dr. & Mrs. Roy Hudgens

 

 

Dr. and Mrs. Roy Hudgens

2019-04-16T10:34:17-04:00

Dr. and Mrs. Roy Hudgens

“The entire Hudgens family wish to thank you and your whole staff and crew for the great job you did for us, in remodeling our beach house. We are pleased with how it all turned out and really like everything so much! A special thank you to Dawn for all her hard work and patience with us in working together on the details. Also, we found the crew very polite and always very helpful. We will be happy to to recommend Re-Builders and thank you again for your work and expertise.”                                                                                                         -Dr. & Mrs. Roy Hudgens    

Thank you

"Thank you for an absolutely fabulous experience.  Your support throughout the process and the quality of the final product are beyond expectation. You and your team are awesome!"


Judy O'Neill

2019-04-16T09:49:59-04:00

Judy O'Neill

"Thank you for an absolutely fabulous experience.  Your support throughout the process and the quality of the final product are beyond expectation. You and your team are awesome!"

A reputable contractor!

"When we moved to Murrells Inlet last June, it was hard to find a reputable contractor. After searching we found Re-Builders! They were always professional and the work was done in a timely manner; above all, Ray was always in contact with us! I love my new kitchen, hardwood floors and bathroom! I would recommend them to anyone for any sort of building or remodeling!"


Cindy Parsons

2019-04-16T10:24:33-04:00

Cindy Parsons

"When we moved to Murrells Inlet last June, it was hard to find a reputable contractor. After searching we found Re-Builders! They were always professional and the work was done in a timely manner; above all, Ray was always in contact with us! I love my new kitchen, hardwood floors and bathroom! I would recommend them to anyone for any sort of building or remodeling!"

Awesome Job!

"Thank you, everything looks good.  The team did an awesome job and we are very pleased with the results."


Eric Chapman

2019-04-16T10:20:44-04:00

Eric Chapman

"Thank you, everything looks good.  The team did an awesome job and we are very pleased with the results."

New Kitchen

"We are definitely enjoying our new kitchen!"


Jeannie Freeman

2019-04-16T09:56:27-04:00

Jeannie Freeman

"We are definitely enjoying our new kitchen!"

We LOVE it!

"We want to let you know that we are truly thankful that we selected you to do our remodel.  We are so delighted.  It was a complete remodel (interior painting the entire house, counters, ceramic flooring, bamboo flooring, countertops, appliances, cabinets and patio).  What made it even more difficult is we currently live 1500 miles away. Thank you once again, and we are so happy with the total house remodel - when we are ready to do the bathrooms, you can guess who we will call!  We LOVE it!


Miles & Susan Rowe

2019-04-16T10:26:11-04:00

Miles & Susan Rowe

"We want to let you know that we are truly thankful that we selected you to do our remodel.  We are so delighted.  It was a complete remodel (interior painting the entire house, counters, ceramic flooring, bamboo flooring, countertops, appliances, cabinets and patio).  What made it even more difficult is we currently live 1500 miles away. Thank you once again, and we are so happy with the total house remodel - when we are ready to do the bathrooms, you can guess who we will call!  We LOVE it!

Extremely Pleased!

"We are extremely pleased with the bathroom renovation you did for us last summer and we're still enjoying the big addition project you did in '07.  We appreciate the quality of workmanship and the quality of your employees".


Jim & Kathy Turner

2019-04-16T09:51:53-04:00

Jim & Kathy Turner

"We are extremely pleased with the bathroom renovation you did for us last summer and we're still enjoying the big addition project you did in '07.  We appreciate the quality of workmanship and the quality of your employees".

Another Great Job!

"Thanks for ANOTHER great job, and feel free to use us for glowing recommendations!"


Barbara Cody

2019-04-16T10:21:36-04:00

Barbara Cody

"Thanks for ANOTHER great job, and feel free to use us for glowing recommendations!"
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