3D Printed Homes ... Wait what ?

There is nothing I find more interesting than learning about disruptive technologies and the real estate industry is not immune to these phenomena. From blockchain, crypto, and NFTs as well as construction and building advancements like 3D printed homes, there are major disruptions coming our way.

After many years of trials and errors, we can confidently say that 3D printing will impact real estate in the coming future but the question is: What will the level of impact be?

Will 3D printing help create more affordable homes? How convenient will it be to see houses made from 3D printers built along every street? What sort of houses can be built and long will they actually last??

Lower construction cost

3D printers are extremely expensive but as the technology improves the cost will continue to decline. When one considers the overall cost of the equipment required it might not immediately make sense how this could lead to lower costs, however, combining all the parameters that are required for a real estate project to be finished one would quickly start to notice areas of potential saving over traditional methods. From logistics to labour costs to material delays and the inability to find the skilled labour required, traditional methods that may seem simple enough can quickly become a nightmare.

On the other hand, 3D printing enables easy access to material and other components for constructing houses. Above all, a small project can be 3D printed in a short time with minimum labor involvement.

Sustainability

As the technology progresses the materials used can improve, using different methods and different sources potentially greener than existing techniques. The creation of new materials will also helo with issues of longevity. These printed homes still need to prove themselves in this regard. Take Malta, for example, certain areas struggle with salt corrosion from sea spray ... will these homes be able to handle this? Issues of seasonal heat and cold fluctuations may also be a big factor.

3D printing may also be a solution to making more economical houses and homes for the economically challenged population of developing countries.? This may not really be a factor in Malta but still, an interesting point when reviewing the effect these printers have on the markets worldwide.

Unique Home Designs

On the other side of the spectrum, one of the greatest advantages of 3D printing is the possibility to create new custom designs that would be impossible to reproduce with traditional methods. This will give individuals an opportunity to escape mundane floor plans and think outside the usual box.

This may allow people to define their own living standards according to their own preferences and build exactly what they like. Great news for the luxury markets.

Reach to Impossible Spaces

This could turn out to be one of the biggest achievements of 3D printing in the real estate industry. There are a lot of vacant spaces lying around just for one reason: No way to reach those places or these projects just not being worth the hassle.

Imagine the possibility of building a penthouse level on an existing block without having to resort to cranes, road closures, and all the traditional problems associated with normal methods of construction.

3D printing takes less space and resources for construction. This could turn into a very promising possibility in the near future.

Offsite Construction

With 3D printing, the different components and parts of the new buildings can also be printed nearby, at a more convenient location. These parts can be easily moved to the construction location and combining these parts, one can create homes, without needing to rely outside sources that could potentially delay things unreasonably.?

There are still a number of questions that need to be studied properly before 3D printing becomes mainstream. As more companies around the world adopt this technology costs and prices will continue to come down making it more feasible for more people still.

You can already find a number of 3D printed homes being developed around the globe. From one-storey buildings to large complexes, 3D printers have even been able to accomplish some huge projects.

What will they come up with next ?

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Disclaimer : We don't have any 3D printed homes currently for sale in Malta :) but if you're looking to buy a new home get in touch with me on the details below.

RE/MAX Msida - 21 222 123 / 9949 7735 - Email: [email protected]

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