It’s a question most Atlanta homeowners eventually face: “Whether or not to renovate an existing home.” Life moves quickly — families expand, work situations change, kids require more room and what once felt just right can quickly start to feel too small, outdated or, not-so-functional.
So, do you stick around and repair what’s not working or do you begin anew in search of a new space? There’s no quick answer. But if you think through some key areas, you can start to get a sense of what makes more sense for you — both now and in the future.
See What Shape Your Current Home Is In
Before you decide, take a good look at your home — not just at how it looks but at how well it actually works for you, day in and day out.
Begin by walking from room to room and asking yourself some simple questions:
- Is there anything broken down, outdated, or that needs to be repaired every few days?
- Does the floor plan still function for your family?
- Are there any areas of the house that feel cramped or inconvenient?
Some issues could be little things, such as a paint job, a fixture repair, or a lighting issue; others can be more serious, though. These can include issues like:
- Foundation cracks
- Major plumbing problems
- Missing shingles or roof leaks
- Old, outdated HVAC systems
Many houses in Atlanta, even relatively new ones, are old — so wear and tear is a pretty common sight. And when several major systems start showing wear at the same time, the cost of repairs and replacements can add up quickly.
The Roof is Aging or Showing Significant Signs of Wear
If your existing roof is experiencing a lot of wear and tear, it makes sense to call a roof replacement company in Atlanta, GA. They can give you an idea of what the costs and time frames would be. And let’s be real: having a sense of whether it’s something little or a total overhaul can help you decide if it’s even worth it.
Beyond the roof, focus on other areas of your exterior. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you need the siding replaced?
- Do you have drainage problems around your foundation?
- Does the landscaping lead to maintenance headaches?
In a seller’s market, a priority list is only a starting point, and often leads to a longer list of items to be fixed. This can shift a prospect’s thinking from proposed minor renovations to a move.
Consider What You Have in Mind for the Future
After you figure out what conditionyour house is in, take a step back and ask yourself where your life will be in the next few years. This is as important as looking at the house itself.
Some things to think about:
- Are you going to be here in Atlanta for a while?
- Do you have a stable job that’s nearby?
- Are your kids in school or still young enough that a change wouldn’t disrupt them?
If your house still suits your needs, generally, and you love where you are, a renovation is a fabulous idea. The following smart upgrades can go a long way in terms of how your home feels.
- Opening up the kitchen
- Expanding a small bathroom
- Adding better storage
But if you’re already cramped for space, or if you know you’ll want more space very soon (for example, you’re expecting another baby or thinking remote work could become permanent), then it might make more sense to put money into renovations. If that’s you, then perhaps buying a home that already checks your boxes would be a more financially wise investment.
Compare the Costs – Renovating vs. Buying
Let’s be honest: price is likely the main consideration in this decision. Whether you renovate or move, one will be costlier than the other, so determining which move is best for you is key.
Renovation costs may include:
- Kitchen remodels
- Bathroom upgrades
- New floors or windows
- Any electrical or plumbing work
- Permits and design fees
And don’t neglect labor and materials costs — they can vary significantly. So getting multiple quotes is probably a smart move before locking anything in.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to move, here are the costs you need to budget for before you move:
- Real estate agent fees
- Down payment
- Closing costs
- Home inspections and appraisals
- Hiring a moving company or renting a car.
- New furniture or appliances
Also consider “hidden” costs — such as if your new place has a higher property tax, HOA fee or is farther from work, which means more money on gas.
Sometimes people who are preparing to move assume they’ll save money in the long run by moving — but once they do, they find they’re spending more money monthly than they wanted to. And renovation costs can sometimes rapidly get out of hand. So take a seat and really map out both routes. A side-by-side comparison can make your decision a whole lot clearer.
Check Out the Housing Market and Your Equity
It’s not all about you — the market is a big factor, too.
If home prices have risen where you live, you could be in a strong position to sell or use the home equity you’ve accumulated to fund a renovation.
Ask yourself:
- What could I sell my current home for?
- At my price range, what can I buy?
- Would I have to bid against other buyers in a competitive market?
Also, think about timing. You may not recoup that money if you plan to renovate and then sell in a year or two. But if you renovate and remain for another 5 or 10 years, it may be a great idea.
A local real estate agent can help you determine how your home stacks up against others nearby, and whether now might be a good time to sell, or to stay put.
The thing is, there’s no easy solution. What’s good for your neighbor may not be good for you.
So here’s an easy way to break it down:
Renovate if:
- You enjoy your neighborhood and want to remain there for a few more years.
- The skeleton of your house is sturdy.
- All you need is an update, not an overhaul.
- You don’t mind a little dust and noise.
Move if:
- Your house needs major work.
- The expenses to renovate are just too much.
- You’re looking to make a fresh start and you prefer fewer hassles.
This is a major decision and it’s all right to take your time. Talk to a contractor. Connect with a real estate agent. Run the numbers. Imagine where you will be in a few years. So go with the one that truly feels right for you and your family.
No matter whether you renovate or relocate, the hope is the same: to find a space that feels like home and works for your life, not just today, but for years to come.
