Besana in Brianza, Lombardy, Italy
Apartment with spacious terraces and views of greenery
Price
€325,000
- 3 Bedrooms
- 2 Bathrooms
- ~160 m² Total surface
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New home or home to renovate: which is really worth it?

When deciding to buy a property, one of the first questions that comes to mind is whether it’s better to purchase a new home or one that needs renovation.
The answer depends on several factors, including budget, timing, personal needs, and investment goals.
In this article, we’ll examine the pros and cons of both options to help you make the right choice.

Buying a newly built home means moving into a modern, energy-efficient space that complies with the latest regulations.
All systems, fixtures, and finishes are brand new, and there are no unexpected costs for maintenance or upgrades.
Energy savings and lower maintenance costs
No need for structural work
Builder’s warranty included
Faster move-in times
However, the price per square meter of newly built homes is generally higher, and they are often located in urban expansion areas, which tend to be less central than historic properties.

Buying a home in need of renovation can be a strategic choice, especially for those looking for a good deal or who want to personalize every detail of the property. Additionally, thanks to tax incentives for renovations, it’s possible to recover part of the investment.
Generally lower purchase price
Greater room for negotiation
Possibility for full customization
Tax incentives (renovation bonus, eco-bonus)
On the other hand, renovating requires time, technical know-how, and careful budget management to avoid surprises.
Besana in Brianza, Lombardy, Italy
Price
€325,000
Trapani, Sicily, Italy
Price
€2,900,000
Brescia, Lombardy, Italy
Price
€375,000
Groppo, Tuscany, Italy
Price
€270,000
L'Aquila, Abruzzo, Italy
Price
€1,970,000
Fleming - Vigna Clara - Tor di Quinto, Rome, Lazio, Italy
Price
€538,000
Paderno, Veneto, Italy
Price
€480,000
Ragusa, Sicily, Italy
Price
€199,000
Pastina, Tuscany, Italy
Price
€430,000
If you're looking for a move-in ready, modern home with no hassle, new construction is the ideal solution. But if you want a property to invest in and make your own—and you're ready to oversee the work—a fixer-upper can be incredibly rewarding.
In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question “Is it better to buy a new home or one to renovate?” Engel & Völkers is here to help you evaluate all your options and find the perfect home for your needs.