Brandon Smith breaks down the brutally honest choice many Lower Mainland homeowners face: renovate or build new. Drawing on 15+ years in the field with New Vision Projects, he explains when a reno is smart, when a rebuild wins, and how to avoid expensive half-measures. This is Part 1 of a two-part series designed to help you make a clear, confident, financially sound decision.

🎯 What You'll Learn:

• How to define the real problem (layout, function, lifestyle, or location) before spending a dollar

• Ways to tell if your home’s “bones” justify a renovation vs. a teardown

• How to set a tight scope so small renos don’t snowball into six figures

• The cost realities: when $400–$700/sq ft renos lose to $500–$800/sq ft new builds

• How to avoid “half measures” that look new but still live old

• Why building new can deliver better energy efficiency, lower maintenance, and higher long-term value

• How to manage disruption (living through renos vs. temporary housing) without losing your sanity

• A simple decision lens to choose the path that fits your next 10 years, not just your next 10 months

🔑 Key Topics Covered:
✅ Renovation fit: lot value, structure, and scope
✅ Hidden conditions: electrical, moisture, structural sag
✅ Pre-construction planning & feasibility
✅ New-build advantages: control, efficiency, longevity
✅ Vancouver/Lower Mainland market realities
✅ Budget ranges & value per dollar
✅ Risk management & lifestyle trade-offs

👤 Featured Guest:
Brandon Smith – Host | New Vision Projects

🎙️ About The Open Concept:
Your go-to podcast for construction industry insights, trade business strategies, and leadership advice that actually works.

📱 Connect With Us:
🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes
👍 Like if this helped you
💬 Comment your biggest takeaway
🔄 Share with someone who needs this