Why the Smart Money is on New Builds in 2026

Homeowners across Britain are pouring record sums into upgrading older properties. According to the latest Houzz report, those who renovated in 2024 spent a median £21,440 – a 26 per cent increase on the previous year. That figure is hard to ignore.

The true cost of renovation

More than half of UK homeowners undertook renovation projects in that year, often transforming kitchens, bathrooms and outdated layouts into the kind of spaces modern life demands. In most cases, these were substantial works rather than cosmetic updates, with nine out of ten homeowners bringing in professional trades.

For anyone considering the purchase of an older home, that £21,440 median spend has effectively become part of the true purchase price. Once you factor in energy efficiency upgrades, new heating systems, insulation improvements or structural changes, budgets can rise quickly – particularly in ageing properties that were never designed around today’s expectations.

A different starting point

At Cavanna Homes, energy efficiency, thoughtful layouts and contemporary kitchens are built in from day one. Our homes are constructed to current building regulations and typically achieve strong EPC ratings, with high levels of insulation, modern glazing and efficient heating systems as standard. Lower energy use can mean lower running costs, offering clarity and reassurance at a time when household bills remain a concern.

The question of risk

Renovating an older property can uncover unexpected issues – from outdated wiring to ageing roofs – leading to further cost and delay. By contrast, a new Cavanna home comes with newly installed systems and structural warranties, helping to reduce the likelihood of unforeseen expenses in the early years of ownership.

Instead of setting aside more than £21,000 to modernise an older property, buyers can move straight into a home designed around the way people live today.

As renovation spending continues to climb, the calculation for homebuyers is shifting. The £21,440 median spend is not just a statistic. It is a reminder that buying new can offer something increasingly valuable: financial certainty from the outset.