How to Choose Between Renovating or Buying a New Home in Marana Arizona

Deciding whether to renovate your current home or purchase a new one is one of the most significant decisions you can make as a homeowner. If you're in Marana, Arizona, a rapidly growing area with a mix of rural charm and suburban amenities, the decision may seem even more daunting. Both options—renovating or buying new—have their advantages, depending on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. In this blog post, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when deciding between renovating or buying a new home in Marana. With expert guidance from Ryan Comstock, a trusted Realtor in Marana, we’ll help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.

1. Evaluate Your Current Home’s Potential

If you already own a home in Marana, the first step is to assess its renovation potential. Homes in Marana offer a variety of styles, from traditional ranch homes to more modern properties in newly developed subdivisions. Some homes may have the space and layout to accommodate the changes you envision, while others may require more extensive work.

Key considerations:

• Structural integrity: Before starting a renovation, ensure your home’s foundation, walls, and roof are sound. If your home needs significant structural repairs, renovating may become more costly than it’s worth.

• Space and layout: Does your current home have enough space to meet your needs, or would you need to extend or reconfigure rooms? Marana offers large lots in many areas, making it an attractive option for expanding your home.

• Location: Marana boasts a variety of neighborhoods, from rural areas offering privacy and larger plots of land to newer suburban communities with convenient access to amenities like shopping, schools, and recreational opportunities.

Ryan’s Tip: “In Marana, homes can vary greatly in style, size, and age. If your current home has great bones and is in a desirable location, a renovation might be the right move. I can help you evaluate your property’s potential and work with trusted contractors if you decide to move forward.”

2. Understand Your Budget

Renovating a home may initially seem more affordable than buying a new one, but renovation costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re making significant changes. From updating kitchens and bathrooms to replacing major systems like plumbing, electrical, or HVAC, there are many hidden costs to consider.

Renovation costs:

• The cost of remodeling in Marana can vary widely, depending on the extent of the work. Minor updates (like painting, landscaping, or flooring) may cost a few thousand dollars, while more significant renovations (like room additions or system overhauls) can easily reach tens of thousands.

• Keep in mind that Marana’s building codes will require permits for many types of renovations, so be sure to factor in the cost of permits and inspections as well.

New home costs:

• New homes in Marana typically start at around $300,000, with prices rising depending on the size and location of the property. If you buy a new home, you’re also likely to have energy-efficient features, modern appliances, and minimal maintenance costs for years to come.

• Financing is a major factor. Mortgage rates fluctuate, so if you’re purchasing a new home, be sure to consider current interest rates. Consulting a mortgage broker can help you figure out how much home you can afford and what your monthly payments might look like.

Ryan’s Tip: “Whether renovating or buying a new home, knowing your budget is key. Renovations can be unpredictable, so I recommend getting multiple quotes from contractors to ensure you stay within your financial limits. I also work with local mortgage brokers who can help you understand your financing options if you're leaning towards buying a new home.”

3. Consider the Time Commitment

Renovating a home is often a long-term project, requiring time, patience, and careful planning. Depending on the size and scope of the renovations, you could be dealing with construction mess, noise, and disruptions for months—or even years. You may need to temporarily relocate or live in the home during renovations, which can cause significant inconvenience.

Buying a new home, on the other hand, is a much quicker process. New construction in Marana has been booming in recent years, with numerous new developments in communities like Gladden Farms and The Preserve. If you’re looking for a move-in-ready home, this could be an ideal option.

Key questions to ask:

• Do you have the time and energy to manage a renovation, or do you prefer the ease of moving into a new home?

• Are you prepared for potential delays or unexpected issues with contractors during renovations?

Ryan’s Tip: “Renovations can be disruptive, so it’s important to be realistic about how much time you’re willing to invest in the process. If you're looking for a fast and easy move, I can help you find a new construction home in Marana that meets your needs and timeline.”

4. Evaluate Long-Term Value

Both renovating and buying a new home can be great long-term investments, but it’s important to consider the potential return on investment (ROI) for each option.

Renovating can increase your home’s value, particularly if you upgrade high-impact areas like kitchens and bathrooms. In Marana, where homebuyers are often looking for modern and updated homes, a well-done renovation can make your home more desirable in the future.

However, make sure you understand the market trends. Will the amount you spend on the renovation bring you a worthwhile return when you decide to sell? In some cases, the cost of renovation may not result in a significant increase in value, especially if you over-improve for your neighborhood.

New homes in Marana often come with modern amenities, energy-efficient features, and a fresh, low-maintenance lifestyle. As the community grows, new construction homes can appreciate in value, particularly in developing areas with increasing demand.

Ryan’s Tip: “If you're looking at long-term value, it's crucial to consider the local market. Marana is a rapidly growing area, and buying a new home in a developing neighborhood could provide solid returns in the future. I can help you evaluate the ROI of any renovation project or new home purchase to ensure it aligns with your financial goals.”

5. Lifestyle Considerations

Marana offers a wide range of lifestyle options, from peaceful rural settings with expansive land to more vibrant suburban communities with easy access to schools, shopping, and dining. Your decision between renovating or buying a new home may ultimately depend on your lifestyle preferences.

Renovating may be ideal if:

• You love the charm and character of your current home but want to modernize it.

• You value staying in your established neighborhood and prefer the space to customize your home.

• You’re willing to invest time and effort into creating your dream home.

Buying a new home may be ideal if:

• You prefer a brand-new home with energy-efficient features, low maintenance, and modern design.

• You’re looking for amenities such as new community parks, fitness centers, or walking trails.

• You want to move into a home quickly without the disruptions of a renovation project.

Ryan’s Tip: “Marana offers both rural and suburban lifestyles, so it’s important to think about what works best for you. Whether you want the peace of a country estate or the convenience of a new development, I can help you find the perfect property that fits your lifestyle needs.”

6. Check the Local Market Trends

Marana has seen significant growth in recent years, with new developments and an influx of homebuyers looking for more space and a quieter lifestyle compared to Tucson. New construction homes are popping up in neighborhoods like Gladden Farms, The Preserve, and Dove Mountain, while other areas still offer rural charm and large lots.

Understanding Marana’s housing market trends will give you a clearer picture of whether renovating or buying is a better option. Are property values rising in your current neighborhood? Is there more affordable new construction available in emerging areas of Marana?

Ryan’s Tip: “I keep a close eye on Marana’s housing market trends, and I can provide insights into the best neighborhoods for new homes or renovations. Whether you're buying or remodeling, I can help you make an informed decision based on current market conditions.”

7. Consult with Professionals

Still unsure which route to take? It’s always a good idea to consult with both real estate professionals and renovation experts. A trusted Realtor, like Ryan Comstock, can provide insight into the Marana market, show you available homes, and help you assess the potential for renovations. Contractors and architects can evaluate the costs and feasibility of remodeling your current property.

Conclusion

Choosing whether to renovate or buy a new home in Marana, Arizona, is a significant decision that depends on many factors, including your budget, timeline, and lifestyle preferences. Renovating allows you to personalize your current home, while buying a new home offers modern features and minimal maintenance. With expert guidance from Ryan Comstock, a trusted Realtor in Marana, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to make the right choice for your family and future.