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: 46

The Craft of Custom
Podcast Episodes
The Power of a Good Builder-Client Relationship [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:13
One thing LR3 has done consistently well, beyond just building custom homes, is building strong relationships. In this episode, we get into the power and importance of a good builder-client relationship and how Paul LaRo…
The Builder’s Rolodex: Local collaborators with a unified vision [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:33
It takes a unified team of skilled individuals to bring together the vision for our LR3 custom home clients. To provide impeccable quality, excellent customer service, and a stunning result, Paul doesn’t leave it to chan…
Guest-Friendly Spaces: customized for entertaining [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:07
If you’re the hostess with the mostess or love having everyone home for the holidays, this episode is for you! We get into guest-ready features and must-haves, customized for everyone’s comfort, both inside and outside t…
Custom, multi-generational features: Home for the whole family! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:34
Sometimes "home sweet home" means more than one generation living under the same roof. From kiddos to aging parents, this episode walks you through the custom features to consider when creating a space everyone can enjoy…
Where Do You Put it All!? Storage solutions for a sense of calm [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:54
Everyone’s idea of the perfect storage and organization system looks a little different. One thing we can almost all agree on is that we don’t want a home full of clutter. Custom storage solutions bring a sense of calm t…
Everything Exteriors: paint, materials, and more! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:12
Got questions about exteriors? Shades of paint, tying in nature, and which materials you can trust to go the distance, this episode is a deep dive into exterior options for your home. Paul sheds light on the difference b…
The Business of the Build: an entrepreneurial chat with Paul LaRoche [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:28
Back in June, Paul hosted his third annual staff and family appreciation BBQ. In this episode, Emily’s got questions about why it’s so meaningful for Paul to show gratitude to those who are building this business alongsi…
Roofs, Gables, and Gutters Made Simple [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:35
A well-designed roofline and intentional materials do more than keep the rain out, they play a huge role in the look and feel of your home. In this episode, we’re unpacking how roof structure, gables, and even gutters al…
What Happens Before the “Action” Happens [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:45
When clients first begin the homebuilding process with LR3, the beginning is exciting! Dreaming, designing, and decision-making. After the plan is finalized and in place, there's what seems to be a lull in the action bef…
Custom Outdoor Living Spaces [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:47
Summer is officially HERE in New England! It's time to get outside and enjoy those bonus outdoor living spaces. Patios, firepits, outdoor kitchens, pools, and more. In this episode, we talk about the custom outdoor livin…