What is cheaper: building or renovating?

If you’re planning to move or give your home a major upgrade, you’ve probably asked yourself: is it better to build from scratch or renovate what you already have? At Tu Casa en Buenas Manos, we understand this is a difficult decision. This article walks you through the key considerations with updated HTML tables for better readability and comparison.

Quick Summary: Build vs. Renovate

Aspect
Build
Renovate
Location
Outskirts, more space
City center, close to everything
Timeframe
Longer, but predictable
Shorter, but uncertain
Design
Total freedom
Structural limitations
Cost
Varies by land and materials
Usually more affordable

Location: Which One Suits You Better?

Renovating allows you to live in the heart of cities like Alicante or Altea, with everything at your fingertips—beaches, restaurants, and public services. Though properties are more expensive downtown, a renovation lets you personalize your space without giving up location.

Building is often limited to the outskirts, where land is available and more affordable. This gives you more space and privacy—perhaps even a garden or sea view—but farther from the city buzz.

Time: How Long Will It Take?

Renovation Type
Estimated Duration
Full renovation (100 m²)
3–6 months
Kitchen or bathroom remodel
1–2 months

Building, while taking longer (12–18 months on average), offers more control over timeline and final outcome—especially if managed with an experienced architect and solid plan.

Neighborhood Impact

Renovations in shared buildings may cause noise, dust, and friction with neighbors. We recommend informing your community beforehand to ease tension.

Building a detached home avoids these issues, giving you privacy and peace of mind.

Design Flexibility

Renovation comes with constraints: existing structure, layout, and utilities can limit your options. It’s possible to make big changes, but there’s a ceiling to flexibility.

Building, on the other hand, gives you total freedom—from open layouts and large windows to adding custom features like pools or smart home systems.

Price: What’s More Budget-Friendly?

Renovation usually costs less upfront, but can quickly increase based on quality and scope.

Renovation Cost Breakdown (Alicante)

Concept
Price (€/m²)
Comment
Home purchase
2,000 – 2,500
In central Alicante or Altea
Full renovation
800 – 1,200
Depending on material quality

New Build Cost Breakdown

Concept
Price (€/m²)
Comment
Land purchase
200 – 400
In the outskirts of Altea
Construction
1,000 – 1,500
Including architect and permits

Final Thoughts: Build or Renovate?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you value location and can work within certain limits, a renovation in central Alicante or Altea is likely best. But if your dream is a tailor-made home with views, space, and design freedom, building on the outskirts may be your best move.

At Tu Casa en Buenas Manos, we’re here to guide you through either path—step by step.

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