To Buy or to Build: What to Consider If You Want a Shed

Sheds are amazing, versatile structures. You can use them to store lawn tools and outdoor supplies, convert them into private offices or sanctuaries, or you can even use them as a playhouse for your kiddos. 

But before you can enjoy one of the shed’s many uses, you first have to decide: Will you build it or will you buy it?

Both options come with their own pros and cons, and the right choice depends on a number of factors. Not sure which route is best? Let’s look at each choice more in-depth.

Buying a Shed

Buying a pre-built shed or hiring a contractor to build one is certainly the easier option. All it takes is some cash and a trip to the store (or even just to a website), and you’ll have that much-desired shed in no time.

Buying also ensures you get quality, professional-grade work, and materials. If you’re not very handy yourself, this can be a huge advantage — especially if you’ll be using your shed for more than your mower and tools.

On the downside, buying is typically more expensive. You might also be limited on your design options or, if you use a contractor, at the mercy of their schedule. Depending on how busy they are, it could make completing your shed difficult.

Pros

• It’s easier and requires less work.
• It’s built professionally.
• You don’t need any special skills or tools.
• You’ll enjoy a completed shed faster.

Cons

• It may cost more.
• You have no control over its design or construction.
• You may need to work around a contractor or installer’s schedule.

Building a Shed

If you’re the handy type, building a shed might be a better option. For one, it affords you full control over the design and construction of your shed. You can add all the bells and whistles you like, and you’ll know exactly what materials and tools are used in the process.

Building a shed can also be cheaper, especially if you’re thrifty about how you buy and source materials. On top of this, it also allows you to complete the shed on your schedule, rather than wait around for a contractor or installer to do the job for you.

Still, building has its downsides. First, you need a good amount of skills to tackle this job. Building a shed requires design, architecture, construction, and carpentry skills that not a whole lot of people have. Additionally, you may need to buy new tools in order to complete the build.

Pros

• You have full control over the design and construction.
• It may be cheaper.
• You can build the shed on your schedule.

Cons

• It takes more time and effort.
• You’ll need skills in a wide range of areas 
• You may need to buy additional tools to complete the job.

Which Route Should You Choose?

Obviously, there advantages and disadvantages to both options. So, which should you choose for your shed? 

Here are some questions to ask when deciding:

1. How handy are you? If you’re not comfortable with construction and carpentry (or you just don’t enjoy it), building your shed might not be the best option. It also might not be safe!
2. What’s your budget? Are you looking to minimize costs as much as possible? If so, building will give you more control over your costs. If you’re willing to put forth more cash, buying could be your best bet.
3. What’s your timeline? Do you need the shed quickly? Buying a pre-built shed may be the fastest route. If you’re flexible on your timing, building is an option.
4. What purpose do you have in mind for the shed? If you’re looking to use the shed for a playhouse or little personal R&R, then you may want to go the professionally built route. You’ll want to ensure the shed is built as safely and up-to-code as possible. If you’re just using it for tools and hardware, DIYing will probably suffice.
5. Is time or money more valuable to you? Ultimately, that’s the trade-off here. Buying a shed means paying more but putting in less time. Building means spending more time on the project but, in most cases, less money spent.

Be careful to check in with your local building department as well as your HOA. You may need certain permits and approvals for your shed. Skipping these could result in a fee or penalty.

Need help paying for your shed?

Are you looking to buy or build a shed for your home’s backyard? A cash-out refinance may be able to help. With a cash-out refinance, you can turn your home equity into cash, using it toward higher-interest debts, home renovations and, of course, that dream she-shed or backyard playhouse. 

Do you want to learn more about your cash-out refinancing options? Reach out to Embrace Home Loans today.