Building a new home is an exciting journey filled with dreams of the perfect living space. However, one question that often arises amidst the excitement is ‘Where do I live during the construction process?’
In this blog post, we will explore and compare various living options during the construction of your new home, including staying in your current home, renting a temporary space, and even living in an RV or camper at a nearby campground.
We’ll also provide practical tips on making each scenario work, so you can continue living comfortably while your dream home comes to life.
Living in Your Existing Home While Building
Living in your existing home while your new house is under construction is a commonly chosen option.
This arrangement offers the advantage of stability and familiarity, as you can maintain your everyday routine without significant disruption. However, one downside is the potential for increased commute times to the construction site if your current home is significantly distant from the new property. This not only affects your availability to oversee the project but also adds time and cost with the commute.
Also, maintaining two properties simultaneously can be a daunting task, requiring a balance between the demands of daily life and the need to keep a close eye on the construction process.
In terms of cost, this option can be more expensive since you’ll need to pay for both properties.
Rent a Temporary Apartment or House Near the Build
Renting a temporary apartment or house nearby can be an attractive option for those who want to be close to the construction site without having to live in their current living quarters until it’s completed.
The key consideration here is cost. Renting a temporary apartment or house can be expensive, and you’re putting money into something that you will not own in the end.
Additionally, you’ll have other tenants to deal with, a lack of storage space, and a whole new set of rules to abide by. Also if you have pets, you’ll need to find an apartment or rental home that allows them.
For those who want to keep an eye on the construction process without having to disrupt their daily routine too much, renting a temporary apartment or house can be a practical solution.
With careful budgeting and clear communication with your rental provider, this arrangement can be an effective way to manage the build, but it certainly comes with its set of disadvantages.
Look for Co-Living Spaces or Shared Housing Options
This arrangement can provide a sense of community and potentially reduce costs compared to renting a temporary apartment or house.
Co-living spaces are designed to accommodate multiple individuals or families in a shared living environment. They often come with shared common areas, such as kitchens and living rooms, while providing private bedrooms or living spaces. This setup allows you to have your own space while still benefiting from the shared facilities and potential social interaction with other residents.
Shared housing options, on the other hand, involve renting a room or portion of a house from someone who already owns or leases the property. This arrangement can be more flexible in terms of duration and cost, as you may be able to negotiate a shorter-term rental or a lower monthly payment compared to a traditional lease.
While co-living spaces and shared housing options can offer cost savings and a sense of community, it’s important to carefully research and vet potential spaces or roommates to ensure a compatible living situation. Consider factors such as proximity to your construction site, availability of amenities, and compatibility with your lifestyle and preferences.
Find a Short-term Rental or Vacation Home
Another option to consider is finding a short-term rental or vacation home near the construction site.
This can provide you with a comfortable and familiar living space that meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a fully furnished apartment or a spacious vacation home, there are plenty of options available depending on your budget and requirements.
Short-term rentals or vacation homes can be more expensive than traditional rentals, so it’s important to factor this into your budget. However, you may find that the convenience and comfort outweigh the additional expense.
When looking for a short-term rental or vacation home, consider the location, amenities, and lease terms.
Look for properties that have the necessary facilities to accommodate your lifestyle.
It’s also important to note that availability for short-term rentals or vacation homes may vary depending on the location and time of year. It’s recommended to start your search well in advance to secure the best options.
Overall, finding a short-term rental or vacation home can provide you with a comfortable living arrangement that’s more appealing than a traditional apartment or rental home.
Stay at an Extended Stay Accommodation
If you prefer a hassle-free and temporary living situation, staying at an extended stay hotel accommodation can be a convenient (but pricey) option.
Hotels are designed for short-term stays and offer various amenities and services that can make your time during the construction process more comfortable.
Extended stay accommodations, on the other hand, are specifically designed for individuals or families who need a place to stay for an extended period. These accommodations often come with fully furnished rooms or suites, kitchenettes, and other amenities that provide a more home-like environment.
Staying at an extended stay accommodation can eliminate the need for you to manage multiple properties or deal with the responsibilities of maintaining a temporary living space. It also provides the convenience of housekeeping services and access to amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and on-site restaurants.
However, it’s important to consider the cost of staying at an extended stay accommodation, as it can be significantly more expensive than other options. You’ll need to determine if the added convenience and comfort are worth the higher cost.
Additionally, it may not provide the same level of privacy and sense of home as other options.
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons and decide if this arrangement aligns with your preferences and needs.
Stay with Family or Friends
Staying with family or friends while your home is being built can be an excellent option for those who don’t want to take on the costs of renting elsewhere.
This arrangement allows you to maintain close contact with your builders while saving money that you can put toward new home costs. It also provides the opportunity to enhance your relationship with the friends or family you’re living with.
However, this option can be disruptive for both your hosts and yourself. If you’re staying with family or friends for an extended period, be sure to establish boundaries and stick to them. Respect their space, privacy, and routine.
Determine if there will be a fee to stay in the living space and agree upon something that is fair to everyone. After all, they’re kindly letting you stay in their place.
Utilize a Camper or RV at a Campground Nearby
If you’re looking for a flexible and mobile living option during the construction process, utilizing a camper or RV can be a practical solution.
Living at a campground nearby allows you to have your living space in close proximity to your home without the high costs of renting a property.
Most campgrounds and RV parks offer amenities like electricity, water hook-ups, and waste disposal facilities as well as shower houses, laundry services, etc. However, it’s important to understand that a camper will not heat and cool in the same way that a home or rental.
This is why the time of year that your home is being built is a huge factor in deciding if this option will work for you.
While utilizing a camper or RV can potentially save you money compared to renting a separate living space, there are still expenses to consider. These include the purchase or rental cost of the camper or RV, campground or RV park fees, and any necessary maintenance or repairs.
It’s also important to think about the logistics of living in a smaller space and the potential challenges it may present. Storage will be limited, so you’ll need to carefully plan and organize a storage space for any of the belongings that won’t be with you. Practical options for storage include renting storage units or renting or purchasing shipping containers.
While this option has its perks, living in close quarters with others can require patience, flexibility and a sense of adventure.
Overall, utilizing a camper or RV nearby can be a cost-effective option for those who prefer a private living arrangement, at a lower cost, and can handle living in close quarters.
Comparing the Options—Where Should You Live During the Build?
Living in an existing home while building can be a comfortable and familiar option, especially if you’re not keen on disrupting your current routine. The main disadvantage, however, is the financial burden if you’re paying a mortgage on your existing home while also financing the construction of your new one.
Renting an apartment, hotel, extended stay, short-term, or co-shared home are all great options for a comfortable living situation—but they can come with a hefty price tag. You’re essentially paying for something you will not own in the end, but it is a convenient option that allows you to keep your normal routines, and a larger amount of space for your family than less costly options.
Living in a camper or with friends or family will have significant cost savings—but these options are not for everyone. There will be limited space and inconveniences to consider.
All options come with their own set of pros and cons. Ultimately, the best option for where to live during your build depends on your preferences, budget, and willingness to adapt to the unique challenges of each scenario.
Value Built Homes: Your Partner in Stress-Free Home Building
Value Built Homes is committed to making your home-building journey as seamless and stress-free as possible.
We understand that living arrangements during construction can be a cause of major concern for potential homeowners when it comes to convenience and cost. That’s why we build our homes as efficiently and affordably as possible with a commitment to staying on schedule and minimizing disruptions to the process.
A key aspect of our support is our commitment to clear and open communication. From the initial planning stages to the final touches, our team of experts is there with you every step of the way.
Start Planning Your New Home Build Today
Deciding where to live during the construction of your new home can be daunting, but remember you’re not alone in this journey. Value Built Homes is committed to providing you with a stress-free, simple, and affordable home-building experience.
It’s essential to find a living space that aligns with your needs and offers the level of comfort and convenience you desire during the construction process and our goal at Value Built Homes is to get you out of your temporary living space, and into your new home as soon as possible without sacrificing a quality build.
We have developed a streamlined home-building process and have a variety of floor plans to choose from. We aim to make your journey as comfortable and worry-free as possible.
So, are you ready to embark on this exciting ride and build your home with Value Built Homes? Contact us today to discuss your options and let us help you turn your dream into a reality.
