Should I Remodel My House or Just Move?

Should I Remodel My House or Just Move?

Most people will come to a fork in the road with their home at some point, when they realize the home is no longer meeting the needs of the household. Choosing whether to move or remodel is a complex decision, with multiple factors involved and no one-size-fits-all answer.

To help you determine whether you should remodel your existing home or being the search for something new, we've highlighted a few things to keep in mind.

Decide What's Missing

Before making any decisions, determine what you're missing in your existing home. Make a list of specific pet peeves you have with the home or areas you feel your household has outgrown it. Some examples might be:

  • Too few bedrooms or bathrooms
  • Not enough kitchen space
  • There is now a need for a home office space
  • Wishing for a home gym, playroom, workshop, or other unique dedicated space
  • Unused space, too much upkeep for unneeded square footage or bathrooms
  • Too much or not enough outdoor space
  • Walkability, good school districts, or other location-related details

Compare the Cost of Moving to the Cost of Remodeling

As with many things in life, the bottom line is the bottom line. In some cases, remodeling will be more cost effective than selling and buying, but the converse may also be true in other cases. To figure out what will cost you more, here are some things to consider.

In general, it costs sellers about 15% of the sale price of a home to sell it. This includes agent commissions, repairs, and title insurance. In some cases, capital gains tax will also apply.

Costs associated with buying a home include 3%-6% in closing costs, furnishing the new home, home appraisals, and the potential for overlapping mortgages if you end up paying on both for a month or more.

Remodeling costs will vary significantly based on the project you take on. It is typical for a home renovation to range between $18,000 and $77,000. In many cases, this project can be financed via a cash out refinance, home equity loan, or home equity line of credit.

It's also important to consider the non-financial cost of a remodel. With historic construction material and labor shortages, it is reasonable to expect delays in the remodel process. Even before the shortages were a factor in remodeling, the general consensus has been that remodeling can be a stressful or emotional process. Consider whether you will be able to, and want to, live in the home during the renovation and how much time you have to manage the projects.

Sentimental Value

Emotional attachment to a home is another factor you should take into account. This might make you more willing to put up with the challenges presented by a remodel, or it may drive you to want a fresh start in a new home. Consider how you feel about your existing home and the memories you have in it, good or bad, to help decide if it's time for some TLC or time to move on.

Location

One thing you can not remodel out of your home is its location. If you love your neighbors, your children's schools, or your short commute to work, moving to a new location is a risk you may not want to take. On the other hand, the location may be the perfect reason to look for a new home. If you are curious about how other communities might suit your household's lifestyle, explore your options and imagine how living in another neighborhood might impact your life.

When you're ready to look for a new home, contact us. We have the team of experts you need to find your ideal property in Northern California.

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53 Properties
Page 1 of 5
Open 9/27
169 Bolsa Avenue Mill Valley,  CA 94941
4
Beds
3F11/2
Baths
3,469
Sq.Ft.
1987
Year Built
1
Day on Site
323912042
MLS
This tranquil Mill Valley home has easy access to all the action in town but also feels like a private retreat. The attractive shingled facade and dramatic vaulted atrium create a welcoming first...
Open 9/30
3696 Frei Road Sebastopol,  CA 95472
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,550
Sq.Ft.
1994
Year Built
1
Day on Site
323913531
MLS
Quiet and private, this Sebastopol home is the quintessential country property. 2.4 +/- acres, 2550 +/- sf, 3 bedroom + den, 2 1/2 baths, with the primary bedroom en-suite on the ground floor. Formal...
2
Beds
1
Baths
516
Sq.Ft.
1930
Year Built
1
Day on Site
323912928
MLS
This 1930's bungalow with amazing gardens and a second unit that could be used as an artist studio, office or workout room is ready for a new owner. Main home is 2 bedrooms, 1 bath with a kitchen...
4
Beds
2F11/2
Baths
1,409
Sq.Ft.
1987
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323913254
MLS
This sweet 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath, 2-story residence offers 1,409 sq ft of comfortable living space that you and your family will adore. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a cozy living room...
Open 9/30
2174 Brookwood Avenue Santa Rosa,  CA 95404
4
Beds
2F11/2
Baths
1,998
Sq.Ft.
2012
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323911722
MLS
Nestled in Santa Rosa's desirable Linwood community, this 2012 Lennar-built home is the epitome of modern living. With four spacious bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, this residence offers ample...
3
Beds
1F11/2
Baths
1,188
Sq.Ft.
1960
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323911874
MLS
Nestled in Montgomery Village, behind a white picket fence, this single-level, three-bedroom, one and a half bath home has an open floor plan perfect for entertaining. Recent updates feature laminate...
Open 10/1
24 Village Circle San Rafael,  CA 94903
2
Beds
1
Baths
675
Sq.Ft.
1985
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323910066
MLS
Nestled within a picturesque, park-like natural setting and conveniently positioned on the ground level, this delightful condominium offers a multitude of appealing features. It is located in a...
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,597
Sq.Ft.
1973
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323910976
MLS
Turn-key Simplicity! Welcome home to this fully renovated, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, single-level home located in the wonderful Hidden Valley Neighborhood in Northeast Santa Rosa. Just steps away from the...
2
Beds
1
Baths
900
Sq.Ft.
2007
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323913092
MLS
Rebuilt in 2007 this Charming 2bedroom 1bath home is out of the flood plain and in excellent condition. Feel the stress melt off as you enjoy treehouse views from almost every window. Dual pane...
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,040
Sq.Ft.
1974
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323911682
MLS
Charming 2 Bed 2 Bath Townhome (PUD) in the Wikiup/Larkfield area. Mature trees, well-maintained landscaping, a private walking path and enclosed community garden create a picturesque unique...
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,284
Sq.Ft.
1979
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323907232
MLS
Rare find and one-of-a-kind setting with views of Mount Hood and situated on Sugarloaf Golf Course on the 1st hole and 9th green in Oakmont. This over 55 community is near the famous Valley of the...
4
Beds
3F11/2
Baths
3,088
Sq.Ft.
2022
Year Built
2
Days on Site
323913304
MLS
Welcome to 3577 Southridge Drive. A MUST see gracious and beautifully appointed Fountaingrove home. Simply Beautiful! Move in and enjoy a contemporary 2022 built beauty. Spacious 4 Bedroom 3.5...
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