Owning a house can indeed be a symbol of a person’s success. Whether we built or bought it, we can say that it’s a significant achievement in our lives. It doesn’t matter if we bought it on a cash basis or through a mortgage loan; as long as we are not renting anymore, we are proud of what we have accomplished.
But when it comes to owning a house, we are bound to make a lot of decisions, which can shape our future and determine how comfortable we will be in that property. We need to decide whether to build the house from scratch or buy a ready-made one. Both options have their own benefits, which will be discussed in this guide.
Design
When you build from scratch, you get to choose the design you want and follow your heart’s desire. You can customise the look and feel of the house by adding some personality to it. If the budget permits, you may also work with professional interior designers to achieve a clean and functional layout.
You will also need to work with other vendors, such as reputable suppliers of high-quality doors, windows, roof, and flooring materials. You need to find a contractor who can turn your vision into reality.
On the other hand, you will not have the liberty to personalise a house if you buy it secondhand or ready-made. While these properties usually come in a variety of designs and styles, it’s still not enough if you are looking for something that will reflect your taste.
But the good thing about buying a house is that you won’t have to deal with all the intricacies of planning and construction. You will get an existing property that might include all the necessary utilities you need to live comfortably. Some houses, especially in gated communities, come with electrical connections and water supply. Others also have a healthy lawn, a garage, and a shed that will serve as a workshop or a storage facility.
Cost 
The amount of money you will spend when you build from scratch and when you buy a house is debatable. It depends on the house’s type, size, location, and the amenities you want to have. One thing is for sure, though; you will spend a considerable amount regardless of your choice. That is why you need to be financially prepared before you decide to build or buy a house.
Sometimes, building from the ground up is costlier than buying outright, but sometimes, it’s the other way around. Your budget will also affect your decision.
Process
Building a house is a long and tedious process. You need to deal with a contractor and labourers as well as purchase the materials you will use for the construction. If you own the land, there will be no problem. But if you’re going to buy a vacant lot, that’s another story. You will need to prepare the necessary documents and complete the transaction before you can start building.
The process of buying a house can also take time unless you purchase upfront. If you take out a mortgage loan, the payment process can take ten to 30 years, depending on the loan term.
Owning a house is something to be proud of. Make the right decision based on your personal preferences and financial capabilities to ensure that you will have no regrets in the future.