It might be better to stay where you are and renovate.
So you like where you live, but your home doesn't meet your family's needs anymore. Should you renovate or sell?
The best reasons for improving your home may not be the ones you think of right off the bat. Here are five to consider:
Sometimes, staying where you are is better
There are many good reasons to move: relocating for work, downsizing once the kids are grown, or wanting to live in a different area. However, if you like where you live, you might want to stay put and create a modern, spacious home that fits your lifestyle. Staying where you are can minimise the upheaval for your family, for example, no need for the kids to change schools.
Finding a new home can be stressful and time-consuming. Instead of spending months looking for that perfect home, upgrading your bathrooms and kitchen or removing that wall that's been bugging you, could be the best solution.
Make your spaces more functional
Construction preferences, just like decorating styles, change over time. What worked when a home was built in the 80’s is probably dated by today’s standards. This is also true of the actual layout and construction of the house, which may meet the demands of your busy lifestyle.
If you don’t need a walk-in closet for a guest room, perhaps your could use the space as an extra bathroom. If you’ve spent years hauling dirty clothes downstairs or to the garage, maybe you could move the laundry to the main floor. Consider opening up your living room with modern Stacker style doors and adding a deck to create an indoor-outdoor living area with great flow. You'll find loads or other ideas and plenty of design inspiration on Pinterest.
Tap into equity
With house prices on the rise, it might make more financial sense to stay where you are. Why not tap into the increased equity you may have and use the capital to improve and renovate the home you already live in?
Renovating made easy
New government regulations and national organisations such as NZ Certified Builders, provide a great deal of reassurance for anyone considering a new build or renovation. With access to the internet, websites and social media at your fingertips, there’s not much you can’t find out about the reputation and quality of a builder’s work. The entire building process can be quite transparent, particularly with the use of various online tools and apps to track your renovation project in real time.
Home is where the heart is
Probably the best reason to renovate your home is to make it a place you love. Your home should provide comfort, enjoyment and be your haven. If your apricot countertops in your 80’s bathroom drive you crazy, or if a new kitchen, a dream bathroom or master bedroom and ensuite is going to enhance your lifestyle, then why not?