Renovate or Relocate? How to Make the Best Decision for Your Home 

Deciding whether to renovate or relocate is one of the biggest choices families face. It’s about more than square meters, it’s about comfort, lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. 

Many families in Melbourne are taking a strategic approach to this decision, seeking clarity before committing. Whether you’re considering a home renovation, extension, or relocating to a new property, careful planning can save time, money, and stress. 

1. Assess Your Home’s Renovation Potential 

Before moving, explore what your existing home could become. A Feasibility Study or consultation with an architect can help you understand the possibilities and constraints. 

Key considerations: 

• Does the home have good bones? 

• Is the layout functional, or could reconfiguration improve flow? 

• Is there enough space, or would an extension be needed? 

• Are there maintenance issues like electrical, plumbing, or damp that could impact budget? 

• Will the home suit your family as it evolves? 

Even homes in need of renovation can often be transformed into highly functional, comfortable spaces. 

2. Compare Renovation vs Relocation Costs 

Both options have costs beyond the obvious. 

Renovation costs may include: 

• Structural work and demolition 

• Upgrading electrical, plumbing, or stormwater systems 

• Temporary accommodation 

• Design, consultants, and permits 

Relocation costs may include: 

• Stamp duty and agent fees 

• Moving expenses 

• Adjusting to a new suburb (neighbours, noise, community) 

• Renovating the new property 

Sometimes, a carefully planned renovation or extension can be more cost-effective than relocating, while improving comfort, functionality, and long-term value. 

3. Consider Lifestyle, Community, and Location 

Where you live affects routines, sense of belonging, and overall wellbeing. 

Reflect on: 

• Do you love your current area? 

• Are schools, transport, and community connections important? 

• Would moving disrupt routines that support your family? 

• How attached are you to the memories and character of your home? 

If your neighbourhood works well for your lifestyle, staying and renovating may outweigh starting fresh elsewhere. 

4. Future-Proof Your Home 

The right choice isn’t just about today, it’s about your life in the years ahead. 

Consider: 

• Family changes and accessibility needs 

• Working from home: dedicated space, equipment, and hours 

• Hosting guests: frequency and duration 

• Long-term maintenance, energy efficiency, and sustainability 

Planning ahead ensures your home supports your life for years to come. 

5. Observations from Experience 

Families approach this decision in different ways: 

• Some want a full overview of renovation, extension, or relocation options. 

• Others explore staged renovations, balancing project scope with budget and lifestyle. 

• Some initially plan to relocate but later reconsider when their ideal home proves hard to find. 

• Others want to improve comfort, health, or energy efficiency through retrofits. 

Clarity comes from asking the right questions and considering both practical and emotional factors. 

6. Key Questions to Guide Your Decision 

• Is this a forever home? 

• How long do you plan to live here? 

• Are you zoned for the right schools? 

• Do you have enough space, or would an extension help? 

• Does the layout work now, or could it be improved? 

• What aspects of the home are most important to you? 

• What are you willing to compromise on? 

7. Strategic Tools: Feasibility Studies and Master Plan Sessions 

Some families find it helpful to explore options with a structured approach. A Feasibility Study or Master Plan Session can: 

• Map out renovation, extension, or relocation possibilities 

• Weigh costs, lifestyle, and long-term goals 

• Clarify what works best for your home 

Taking a strategic, informed approach helps you make the best decision for your home and lifestyle, whether that’s renovating, extending, or relocating. 

If you have a project in mind, you can reach out to us here.