Purchasing a prefabricated home opens up two distinct options: opting for a turnkey solution where everything is taken care of by the builder, or choosing to get involved in the construction process for a more personal touch and potential savings.
This article details both paths to help you identify the option that best aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
Turnkey vs. Construction Participation: The Main Differences
Your choice will likely fall somewhere between these three options. Below is a table summarizing the main factors to consider when making the right choice.
Obviously, the table shows the choice between having "everything cooked in the beak" versus the choice of getting personally involved (sharing tasks or completely self-building).
| Appearance | Turnkey prefabricated house | Prefabricated house with personal participation |
|---|---|---|
| Simplicity | Maximum, with a construction process entirely managed by the builder. | Lesser, requires involvement in the construction process. |
| Personalization | There are a huge number of models to suit your tastes. | Allows detailed customization according to personal preferences. |
| Potential savings | Less, due to the complete service provided by the manufacturer. | More meaningful, thanks to personal contribution to the work. |
| Required skills | None, the manufacturer takes care of everything. | Some manual skills are required to be effectively involved. |
| Completion time | Faster, because the builder has the experience and resources to complete the house quickly. | May take longer, depending on the extent of involvement and effectiveness of the work carried out. |
| Risk | Reduced, with more predictable costs and lead times. | Potentially higher, due to the contingencies of DIY construction and finishing. |
| Peace of mind | High, thanks to complete project support. | Variable, depends on the ability to manage construction challenges. |
Turnkey prefabricated house: simplicity and peace of mind
Choosing a turnkey prefabricated house means receiving a house fully finished by the builder, ready to be lived in upon delivery.
This option is ideal for those who prefer to avoid the complications of construction and finishing.
IMPORTANT: Many companies specializing in the construction of prefabricated houses limit themselves to delivering and installing the building on previously laid foundations.
They do not cover the preparation of these, the connections to the water, electricity, gas networks, as well as other aspects related to the development of the site and the necessary administrative procedures.
It is therefore important to ask questions to the companies before starting the project to avoid any surprises.
Advantages of the turnkey formula
- Simplicity: The manufacturer takes care of everything, from assembly to finishing.
- Save time: The possibility of moving in immediately after delivery.
- Peace of mind: Less risk of cost overruns or unforeseen delays.
Prefabricated house with personal participation: savings and customization
For those looking to personalize their home while saving money, getting involved in the finishing process offers a unique opportunity.
This option allows for deep customization and potential cost savings, without requiring construction expertise.
Benefits of Personal Participation
- Potential savings: Taking care of the finishing or part of the work can reduce the total cost of the project.
- Personalization: Adapt every detail of the house to your personal preferences.
Points to consider
- Manual skills: Some DIY skill is recommended to maximize the benefits of this option.
- Time investment: Getting involved in construction takes time and energy.
We strongly recommend you read the article made by the National Bank which explains to you what you need to know before embarking on self-construction (totally or partially).
In short, this option is interesting, but very time-consuming. As the National Bank specifies, expect to put in a minimum of 20 hours per week.
Moreover, you will have to have the work completed within 12 months, which can put additional pressure on your shoulders.
Conclusion
The choice between a turnkey prefabricated home and personal involvement in the process depends on several factors, such as your skills, budget, and desire for customization.
While the turnkey option offers a hassle-free solution for quick installation, engaging in construction allows for further customization and potential cost savings.
Whichever you choose, prefabricated homes offer remarkable flexibility and efficiency in accessing homeownership.
