If you’re at the point where you know you need different functionality and style in your home, you might be wondering if you should just sell it and buy one that more closely suits you at this stage of your life. It’s an option, of course. But another solution might just be to update your current space.
This has been a trend over the past few years ‒ to remodel what exists rather than move away from everything that is familiar ‒ neighbourhood, stores, schools, friends.
There’s the question of equity in your home and keeping the home in your family. Older city properties are typically larger than newer lots. It depends on what’s important to you. You might want to have a discussion with a local real estate agent to better understand the possibilities.
However, if you love your home but you’re just getting tired of it, there are many things you can do to make it brighter, happier, and more functional. They don’t even need to be big things.
You can consider a renovation that starts small but allows for changes later on as your life changes ‒ as you age, as your children grow, and as grandchildren visit.
You might consider:
- Wider doorways
- Seamless one-level flooring
- Curbless showers
- Stairs that can accommodate future lifts
- Flex design so you can just live on one level if you wish
- Bigger windows or new skylights
- More efficient storage
- Better lighting
- Indoor-outdoor integration
- Energy-efficient upgrades
An experienced, professional renovator will be able to provide insight into costs and impacts based on historical projects. This should help you to make informed decisions.
You might decide this is the time for a whole new kitchen, designed for your lifestyle as it is right now and as you envision it in the future.
A new bathroom or a finished basement can drastically change the look and comfort of your home.
Landscaping and new siding will make your home feel fresh and restored.
If you feel your home is outdated and a bit dreary, it doesn’t mean it’s time to start checking the market for a new house. Everything you want might very well be right there within reach.
Just make sure your designer knows what you want or need, big and small.
And then take it one step at a time, where you are, in all that’s established and familiar.
