To Renovate or Move? Lets Break it Down Simply
By Adrian Apostolatos
Are you thinking about changing your home? You're not alone. Many Sydney families ask the same big question: Should we renovate or should we sell?
Maybe your home feels too small or maybe it just doesn't work for how you live now. You might love your neighborhood but need some extra space. Or maybe moving sounds like a fresh new start
This guide will help you decide. We'll show you what it costs to renovate or sell, how each option adds value, and when it makes the most sense to stay or go. We'll also talk about one of the best ways to improve your home, which can be adding an Alresco Outdoor Room.
Let's find the right path for your home, your family and your future.
Key Takeaways
- Renovating can be more cost-effective than selling.Avoid hefty fees like stamp duty and agent commissions by enhancing your current home.
- Outdoor rooms add significant value and enjoyment.They create versatile spaces for relaxation and entertaining, boosting your property's appeal.
- Selling might be the better option if renovation isn't feasible.Consider selling if your home's layout or location doesn't meet your long-term needs.
- Consulting with experts simplifies the decision-making process.Professional guidance ensures your choices align with your lifestyle and financial goals.
Table of Contents
- What’s Happening in Sydney’s Property Market
- Renovate or Sell? Simple Ways to Decide
- What Adds the Most Value to a Home?
- Video: How To Get The Perfect Backyard Landscape Design
- Cost Breakdown: Renovating vs. Selling
- Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating
- Financial Tip: The 10% Rule
- Real Story: A Fresh New Outdoor Room in Normanhurst
- Real Story: Creating a Seamless Outdoor Living Area in West Pymble
- Conclusion: What’s Right for You?
- FAQs
What’s Happening in Sydney’s Property Market
Homes in the Sydney market are in high demand. Prices are naturally rising again. But buying and selling still comes with big costs that you need to consider.
We’ve outlined below some costs that you need to factor in if you are considering selling up & moving (based on a $2.0 million dollar home):
- Real Estate agent fees
Anywhere from 1.5 - 2.5% of the homes sale value = $40,000 - Real Estate marketing costs
Will differ depending on the agent’s approach. Budget between $5,000 - $10,000 - Stamp Duty
A State government tax. Can sometimes be referred to as ‘Transfer Duty’. Budget for $92,409< - Removalists
Will naturally depend on the size of your home & how much ‘stuff’ you have = $2,500 - Legal Fees
Allow roughly $1,500
That could mean roughly a spend of $146,409 just to move. Instead, many families are choosing to put that money in improving the home they already live in.
And it's not just about the money. Staying put means your kids keep their school, you keep your local friends and you don’t have to pack up your life.
Don’t forget about the stress & anxiety that comes with trying to find the perfect place to buy & sell in the same motion, plus packing everything up on top of this - what's that emotional toll costing you?
Renovate or Sell? Simple Ways to Decide
Are you confused & not sure what’s right for you? These questions can help…
Choose to renovate if:
- You loooooove your street
- Your home just needs a little bit more space
- You want to stay long-term
- You’re ready to invest in lifestyle improvements
Choose to sell if:
- Your block is too small for your family or steep
- A simple renovation wouldn’t fix the home’s core problems
- You’re wanting to change the kids school or maybe you are changing jobs
- You can sell for a great price and buy better
Many people also combine both ideas: renovate now, enjoy it for 3–5 years, and then sell at a higher price.
What Adds the Most Value to a Home?
Not all upgrades give the same return. Here are the top renovation ideas that increase value and enjoyment:
- Outdoor rooms: Add a second living space, great for outdoor dining and relaxing.
- Kitchen updates: A new layout, benchtops and fittings.
- Bathroom refresh: Clean, modern and practical.
- New floors and paint: An easy way to freshen up the whole home.
- Better layout: Open up space or add a bedroom or office.
According to OpenAgent, a smart & carefully planned renovations can add anywhere from $100,000 to $400,000 in value, depending on our property’s location & renovation type.
Start Your Alfresco Dream Here
How To Get The Perfect Backyard Landscape Design
In this episode of 'Out the Back Door' we sit down with Adrian Swain from 'Eco Design' Landscape Designers & Architects.
Adrian is a registered Landscape Architect, AQF Level 5 Arboricultural Consultant, Licenced Structural Landscaper and Pool Builder
In this episode we cover a lot (even including a Star Wars garden theme!) including:
- Where do people get stuck in the Landscape Design process?
- What are the top 3 things people should start to think about/get right when they are starting their landscape design process?
- What's the best way to budget accurately to achieve your dream landscaped backyard?
Cost Breakdown: Renovating vs. Selling
Let’s compare what it really costs to renovate vs. move:
| Detail: | Renovating: | Selling: |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Approvals | Included | N/A |
| Construction |
$150,000 – $250,000 Depending on design & size | N/A |
| Real Estate Commission | N/A | $40,000 |
| Real Estate Marketing Costs | N/A | $10,000 |
| Stamp Duty | N/A | $92,409 |
| Removalists | N/A | $2,500 |
| Legal Costs | N/A | $1,500 |
| Emotional Costs | With the right builder…low | Can be high |
| TOTAL Estimates |
$150,000 – $250,000 Depending on design & size |
$150,000 Depending on your homes value |
As you can see, the money spent moving often covers a renovation that gives you years of better living.
Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating
Here are some common problems that we’ve found that people can make when renovation and how to avoid them:
- Doing too much: Don’t overcapitalise. Stick to a clear plan/design & budget.
- Wrong design choices: Plan & work with experts who understand your goals.
- Poor builder selection: Choose a team with end-to-end service and a proven track record.
- No approvals: Know the rules early in your design process - especially for bushfire zones.
At Emanate & Co., we guide you from start to finish. We take care of the design, compliance and building so it’s stress-free.
Financial Tip: The 10% Rule
This is a great way to stay on track - Don’t spend more than 10% of your home’s current value on renovations if you plan to sell soon.
So for a $2 million home, that’s a $200,000 renovation. This helps make sure you get a strong return when it goes to market.
But if you’re staying long-term, you can go beyond the 10%, especially if the upgrade improves how you live every day.
Real Story: A Fresh New Outdoor Room in Normanhurst
Kim & Michael in Normanhurst had an existing timber deck that was aged and underwhelming. It didn’t align with their goals of creating a welcoming space that blended warmth, comfort, and modern outdoor living. They needed more than just a new surface - they wanted a complete transformation that felt like a true extension of their home
We designed a tailored outdoor room that blended seamlessly with their home, using warm timber finishes and clean lines. The space now feels open, elegant, and completely functional — a far cry from the old deck. Today, it’s where they unwind, host family dinners, and make the most of their home without having to move.
”
The professionalism and expertise of the Emanate team were commendable. They took the time to work with us on our vision for the deck and provided suggestions to enhance the design and functionality.
Real Story: Creating a Seamless Outdoor Living Area in West Pymble
The outdoor area at this West Pymble home lacked connection to the house. With a narrow tiled surface and minimal shelter, it was rarely used at all and didn’t reflect Craig & Emma’s vision of a calm, elegant outdoor space.
The brief was simple: enlarge the outdoor living space, improve comfort, and add functionality.
We built a modern outdoor room with a lined ceiling, subtle feature lighting, and thoughtful screening that provides privacy without blocking light. The result is a space that flows seamlessly from the interior - now used for everything from quiet morning coffees to entertaining guests.
Conclusion: What’s Right for You?
This isn’t just about bricks and timber. It’s about how your home feels, works, and supports your family.
If your block and location are great, and the layout can improve; renovating makes sense. If the house no longer fits or fixing it would cost too much, then selling could be smarter.
Emanate & Co. helps you choose with confidence. We offer 3D designs so you can see the vision. We handle all the tricky approvals. And we build outdoor rooms that truly transform your space.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will renovating increase my property’s value?
In many cases, yes - especially when you focus on high-impact upgrades like kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor rooms. Well-designed renovations can boost value by $100K - $400K depending on the suburb.
How do I avoid overcapitalising?
Stick to the 10% rule if you plan to sell soon. Talk to us first - we’ll help you plan a budget that suits your goals.
What parts of my home should I renovate first?
Start with areas you use most: outdoor space, kitchen, and bathroom. These bring the biggest lifestyle and resale value improvements.
Are outdoor rooms really worth it?
Yes! They add a second living space, improve resale value, and make everyday life more enjoyable year-round.
Do I need council approval?
Often yes, but not always, as it depends on the type of work. We assess your site and manage the full approval process for you.
What if I’m unsure about selling later?
Many of our clients renovate now to enjoy the space, then sell later at a higher value. It’s a smart way to improve life now and invest in the future.
