There’s a moment many homeowners have. Standing in their lounge, looking around, thinking, “This just doesn’t work anymore.” But when you love your street, your neighbours, and your lifestyle, moving doesn’t feel right either. That’s where a knockdown rebuild comes in.

A knockdown rebuild is for people who “love where they live, but don’t love their house,” says Jarrod Angove of Landmark Homes. Whether it’s school zones, friendships, or beach access, there are plenty of reasons people stay put. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a home that no longer suits your life.

More than just a renovation

Renovations can seem like the obvious first step. But they’re not always the most cost-effective or transformative. By the time you upgrade foundations, rewire old systems and try to work around poor layout choices, a renovation can become more complicated than starting fresh.

A knockdown rebuild gives you the best of both worlds. Your dream home in the location you already love. Landmark works with clients to design a new build that suits the site, the view, and your lifestyle. Whether that means improving indoor-outdoor flow, modernising insulation, or finally getting a kitchen that works, the possibilities are wide open.

What’s involved in the process?

Surprisingly, it’s more common than you might think. “I would do four or five of those projects every year,” says Jarrod. “We can come in and do a design for the site and take care of the whole process, whether removing the home for resale or completely demolishing it.”

From there, the Landmark team handles everything from concept design and consents through to handover. You’ll be working with a dedicated team. That includes architects, interior designers, and project managers who know how to make the transition smooth. You won’t be expected to manage tradies or chase suppliers. Landmark takes full responsibility for the entire process.

Where do you live in the meantime?

Most homeowners temporarily rent, stay with family, or use an investment property. The build itself takes time, but it’s a one-off disruption that delivers long-term gain. On average, Jarrod estimates you’d be out of the home for 10 to 12 months for a 300 square metre rebuild. And because the timeline is set in the contract, there’s clarity upfront. “When we sign a building contract, we have to nominate a start and end date,” says Jarrod. “And then we have to notify you should there be any changes to that with good reason.”

Is it right for you?

If your home is dated, inefficient or no longer meets your family’s needs, it’s worth exploring whether a rebuild could deliver better value than a complex renovation. You’ll get a modern, tailored home with none of the compromises that often come with fixing the old.

You don’t have to leave the street you love to get the house you’ve always wanted. Sometimes, the best place to build your future is exactly where you are.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.