Renovate or Relocate: 3 Questions to Help you Decide

Does your current home no longer serve your needs?

If so, you may be torn between relocating to a new home or renovating your existing one. This can be a difficult choice, and there’s a lot to consider—including potential costs, long-term financial implications, and quality of life.

A major remodel can be a major commitment. From hiring contractors to selecting materials to managing a budget, it can take a tremendous amount of time and energy—not to mention the ordeal of living through construction or relocating to a temporary residence.On the other hand, moving is notoriously taxing. In fact, in one survey, 40% of respondents viewed buying a new home as ”the most stressful event in modern life.”1So which is the better option for you? Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors you should consider before you decide.

What Are Your Motivations for Making a Change?

It’s possible that some of the limitations of your current home can be addressed with a renovation, but others may require a move.

Renovate

Certain issues, like dated kitchens and bathrooms, are fairly easy to remedy with a remodel—and the results can be dramatic. In many cases, a relatively minor renovation can significantly increase your enjoyment of your home.

Other shortcomings can be more challenging to fix but are worth exploring so that you know your options. For example, if your home feels cramped or it lacks certain rooms, you might be able to make changes like installing an extra bathroom, adding a dedicated office, or finishing an attic or basement. You may even be able to build an accessory dwelling unit or extension to accommodate a multi-generational family.

In fact, many Americans have remodeled their homes to meet changing needs since the start of the pandemic. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, 90% of their members reported increased demand for renovations starting in 2020, and 60% reported that the scale of remodeling projects has grown.2

However, the feasibility and cost of these larger changes will depend on factors ranging from zoning and permitting to your home’s current layout. Speaking with an architect or a contractor can help you make an informed decision. Let us refer you to one of our trusted partners to ensure you receive the best possible service.

Relocate

Of course, sometimes, even rebuilding your home from the ground up wouldn’t solve the problem. For example, moving may be the only solution if you’ve switched jobs and now face a lengthy commute or if you need to live closer to an aging family member.

Conversely, if the shift to remote work has opened up your location options, you may wish to seize the opportunity to relocate to a new locale. A 2022 study found that nearly five million Americans had already moved since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased flexibility from remote work, and nearly 19 million more were planning to move in the near future for the same reasons.3

Moving may also be the best option, even when you’re happy with your geographic location. A local move may make sense if you’re looking for a larger backyard or significantly more space. Similarly, some frustrations—like living on a busy street or a long way from a grocery store—can’t be addressed with a renovation. We are well-versed in this area and can help you determine whether another neighborhood might suit you and your family better.

Which Option Makes the Most Financial Sense?

Which Option Will Be the Least Disruptive to Your Life?

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Sources:

HousingWire -https://www.housingwire.com/articles/46384-americans-say-buying-a-home-is-most-stressful-event-in-modern-life/

National Association of the Remodeling Industry -https://cdn.nar.realtor//sites/default/files/documents/2022-remodeling-impact-report-04-19-2022.pdf?_gl=1*3pfs0m*_gcl_au*NTU2MDQ0MzAyLjE2ODMyMzgzMTY

Business Insider -https://www.businessinsider.com/5-million-people-moved-because-of-remote-work-since-2020-2022-3

Forbes -https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/contractor/home-renovation-costs/

U.S. News & World Report -https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/10-home-renovations-that-can-decrease-the-value-of-your-home

Bankrate -https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-vs-home-equity-loan/#differences

House Beautiful -https://www.housebeautiful.com/home-remodeling/a25588459/home-renovation-timeline/

National Association of Realtors -https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/highlights-from-the-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers

Forbes -https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/how-long-does-it-take-to-close-on-a-house/