Renovation vs. New Build: Which is right for you?

Renovation vs. New Build: Which is right for you?

Author: Paul LaRoche & Emily Aborn October 29, 2025 Duration: 6:36
While LR3 doesn't focus on remodels and renovations, there are instances where they accommodate these projects. In this episode, we get into what type of home remodels make a good fit for our team and how Paul helps homeowners decide between renovating or starting fresh. In the episode, you'll learn: When it's time to renovate and when to start fresh A renovation challenge people underestimate The difference in cost when considering renovating vs. new build Th...

Ever find yourself sketching floor plans on a napkin or saving inspiration photos for a house that doesn't exist yet? The Craft of Custom is for anyone who feels that pull toward a home that’s truly their own. Hosts Paul LaRoche and Emily Aborn guide you through the nuanced journey of creating a personal sanctuary, whether it's a primary residence, a vacation retreat, or a renovation that finally aligns your space with your life. This isn't about generic advice; it's a deep, practical conversation focused on the unique considerations of building and designing in the Monadnock Region. In each episode, you'll hear the unvarnished realities-the art, the science, and the often-overlooked details-of the custom home industry. Think of it as a series of candid conversations with seasoned experts who help demystify the process, from initial concepts to the final walkthrough. The goal is to equip you with the insights and questions you need to navigate your project with confidence. Tune in for a podcast that treats your dream home not as a fantasy, but as a thoughtful, achievable craft.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

The Craft of Custom
Podcast Episodes
Not According to Plan is in the Plan: All About Delays & Overruns [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:44
In the world of construction, delays and overruns are all but inevitable. The key is to plan and prepare for the unexpected and build things not going according to plan into the plan. In this episode, Paul shares some of…
Monadnock 101: Your Guide to Becoming a Local [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:00
We're having some FUN in this episode and sharing the unwritten rules of the Monadnock Region that every newcomer should know. Disclaimer: Many of these, Paul and Emily don't even know the answer to despite growing up he…
Design Myths to Stop Believing [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:25
Is open concept always better? Should you design with resale in mind? Is custom building as expensive as you think? There are certain design "rules," that many people believe as hard-and-fast truths... but are they actua…
Landing the Lot: Selecting the land for your dream home [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:02
Your lot isn't just where your home sits... it's part of the design itself. Topography, views, sun exposure, setbacks, soil conditions, utilities, and more. These constraints either limit your options or become creative,…
Is the Upgrade Worth It? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:11
Premium appliances, smart home systems, luxury finishes, high-end HVAC, the options during a custom build are endless... and the price tags can be too! But which upgrades actually deliver long-term value, and which ones…
If I Were Building My Own Home Today: Paul's Dream Build [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:57
Ever wondered what a luxury custom home builder would build for himself? In this episode, Paul gets personal and walks through his dream home from the ground up. He chooses his ideal location, and we give him complete cr…