Relocate or Remodel?

At some point in time, we all find ourselves facing the question: should I remodel or relocate? It is a big decision that can change the course of your family’s life – no matter which decision you choose. So how do you know which path is the right one?

Should I Remodel or Relocate?

I can’t help but think of that song with the lyrics that go should I stay or should I go now? I often meet homeowners that are on the fence about whether or not they should sell the home that has been in their family for decades or if they should remodel (or renovate) their house to fit their needs.

If you listen to The Home Improvement Show on WDUN, follow me on social media, or read these blogs, then you know that I am a fan of one particular school of thought: remodeling your home so you never have to sell it.

In the vast majority of instances, there is usually a way to make your home work for your particular lifestyle. Whether you are looking to add a family member (such as a new baby or an elderly relative that needs care) or have too much space, odds are, there is a solution that can keep you happy — and in your home.

Most homeowners do not want to leave their house. It is commonly a place where we build most of our memories, and because of that, our home holds a special place in our hearts. However, life does go on and things happen, and sometimes you will have to make that difficult choice to move.

If you follow my philosophy of “remodeling so you never have to sell,” you will find that there are several benefits to this line of thinking. For starters, you may be able to stay in the home that you have loved for so many years. Second, you could save money, as moving into a new home is often more expensive than remodeling, renovating or adding on. And, if you ever do have to move for any reason, you can rest assured that your remodeling efforts have not been in vain, as they will no doubt have increased the value of your property — a smart investment no matter how you look at it!

Remodeling Options That Will Keep You In Your Home

We discuss some home design and remodeling terms such as “Age-in-Place” and “Universal Design” from time to time on our blog and radio show and with good reason — as the population ages and lifespans increase, homeowners are frequently finding that their home is no longer as accessible as it once was.

Issues with mobility, vision and general comfort can all come with age. Incorporating smart “age-in-place” design features can help you anticipate – and incorporate – these shortcomings in your current home. Simple improvements such as hand railings, increased lighting, walk-in tubs and showers, wider hallways and doorknobs/drawer handles that are easy to use are all elements of age-in-place and universal design.

If your home is short on space, building an addition is another great option that will keep you in your home. Adding an extra bedroom, another bathroom or even a bonus room are all popular choices.

Sometimes a new addition is not required – often a little reconfiguring of your existing space will solve your problems. For instance, perhaps you have a large bathroom that has a lot of empty space. You could always borrow from that space to extend a bedroom or add additional storage space.

So next time you find yourself asking whether you should remodel or relocate, consider this question instead: what can I do to stay in the home where I built so many memories? The answer — and the cost — may just surprise you!

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