Regarding the design, are you not happy with the product/ the design itself, or is it something else? If you are generally happy with the design I would suggest that you first get some preliminary budgets with local contractors. Once you have those it will be much easier to do a cost/ benefit analysis.

I am going to disagree with nnigrt a little; it has been my experience that it can be cost effective to buy and remodel. Remodeling a recent purchase can put some much desired equity in your pocket, especially if you are buying a short sale or a foreclosure. Mostly it will depend on where you spend your remodeling dollars. A little research on property values in your local area should give you some good ideas. Out here in California kitchens and master bedroom suites are some of the better places, as well as adding skylights to daylight darker areas.

If you are really not happy with the design firm you are with, it may be best to part ways with them and find someone else who you gel with. Hope this helps, good luck and stay warm.

I think at this point it would be best to see what is out there as far as purchasing a new modern home you will absolutely love. For $15k you've spent in design ideas you're not satisfied with could get you a new kitchen remodel (new cabinets and countertop) in Hampton Roads depending on size. However, you're in NOVA so the prices and cost of living are a lot higher. Best of luck in your decision.

Add up the costs of what you want to do. But, one thing you're not going to easily duplicate no matter the cost is location. At least not without a multi million dollar purchase happening.

Cost vs Value

I suggest you seek out a reputable design-build remodeling company in your area and stop wasting money on architectural plans. If you like your lot, location, and neighborhood, a whole house remodel can certainly accomplish your goal of a modern home and you would still get to keep your location which sounds like it would be hard to beat. Take a look at our website to at least learn more about design-build or give me a call if you have questions about the differences between design-build and architect bid-build. We're in Cabin John just up the road and have transformed more traditional-styled homes in the past 25+ years than I can count!

I am going to disagree with Mark IV Builders on the topic of design-build. Architectural plans are NEVER a waste. The Design-Bid model offers a home owner the ability to shop around and find a contractor who best fits their particular needs, whereas design-build locks you into a relationship with a contractor. An independent designer will work with you to create a design that fits your needs and your budget because that is the ONLY way for him to be successful. A designer beholden to a contractor will create a design that is influenced by the profit motive of the contractor that is paying him.

Many of our clients change the scope of work during design. You have some designs. List out what you like and, just as important, what you don't like about the current house and the design work that you already have. I find the things you "don't want" to be the most useful because most folks are clear as to what they don't want. List our what what you want in the final product. Make sure there is agreement between you and your significant other(IMPORTANT STEP!).

Interview several design-builders and architects. Hire the top two to do a concept/feasibility study (a couple of grand). take the best ideas from both and hire the one you are most comfortable with. While price is important, building a comfortable cohesive team is more important, the price fades over time while the process and experience tends to stay front and center.

Most of us live off referrals. If you have a good experience; you're going to tell all your friends and neighbors. If you have a bad experience, you're going to tell all your friends and neighbors! Most experienced design-builders and architects have a clear understanding of how this works and act appropriately.

Mark Scott

MARK IV Builders

Remodeling can be quite expensive. Although we work here in AZ I can give you some ballpark numbers. Most home owners that redo all of their flooring, cabinetry, countertops, etc can spend anywhere from 60-100K or more. Just check the comps in your neighborhood and property value to see if its more advantageous to buy a new home or remodel the one you are in based on equity