When you first moved into your home, everything probably seemed perfect. But as time goes on, things change. Maybe you need more space, or maybe the house just doesn’t fit your needs anymore. The decision to stay put and renovate or to sell and move can be tough, especially when you have strong ties to your community in places like Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, or Redondo Beach.

After all, it’s not easy to uproot your family from where close relationships with your neighbors and community have been forged or where family members are just a stone’s throw away.

So whether you want something more comfortable and livable or you need more space to accommodate an older parent moving in, you’ll need to determine what your long-term goals are and what your budget can support. Use the following tips to help you weigh all the factors associated with renovating and moving and, ultimately, make the best choice for you and your family.

Assess market conditions

If you’re thinking about moving, you’ll need to know if home values are going up or down in your area and in any areas you might move to. I can help you get that info as a local real estate agent familiar with the Los Angeles South Bay and Beach Cities.

Consider the pros and cons

Both choices have good and bad sides. Your specific needs, how much money you have to spend, and what you want in a lifestyle will help you make the final decision.

Why renovate?

If you like your current location in, say, Redondo Beach and don’t want to leave, then renovating could be for you. Whether you need a bigger kitchen or another room, renovating your current home can be worth it if you’re planning to stay for a long time.

Why relocate?

On the other hand, there are reasons why moving could be better. Maybe you can’t make your home bigger because of lot size. Or maybe you want a newer, bigger home in another part of Los Angeles or the South Bay. Whatever the reason, moving might be the easier way to get what you want.

Research the costs

Both choices come with costs that you’ll have to plan for.

Construction expenses

How much you’ll spend on renovating depends on what you want to do. Once you know what you want, you’ll have to find a good contractor. If you’re looking for recommendations, I can help. And remember, the cost isn’t just about labor; you’ll also need to buy materials like wood, paint, and maybe even rent some equipment. 

Renovating often means extra costs you didn’t plan for, like getting an architect or paying for permits, especially in regulated areas like the Los Angeles South Bay. And if the renovation is big, you might have to find another place to stay while it’s happening.

Moving expenses

When you decide to relocate, there are multiple expenses to consider beyond just the sticker price of your new home. Firstly, you’ll have the moving company’s fees, which can vary widely depending on several factors. The distance of the move is a significant consideration; moving across the Los Angeles South Bay area may be far less costly than a cross-country move or moving to another part of Southern California. The size of your current home also plays a role; transporting a two-bedroom home’s contents will be significantly cheaper than a four- or five-bedroom residence.

Another factor is the weight and type of items you’re moving. Special care for artwork, fragile collectibles, or large pieces of furniture might require specialized packaging or crating, adding to the cost. If you’re moving from a Manhattan Beach condo to a house in Hermosa Beach, for example, the complexity of moving from a multi-story building could also affect the price.

Don’t forget travel expenses, especially if you’re moving a considerable distance. You’ll need to consider fuel if you’re driving, airfare if you’re flying, and perhaps even hotel stays. And then there are smaller expenses that quickly add up: utility setup fees at your new place, potential storage unit fees if you can’t move everything at once, and even the cost of restocking your pantry and other household essentials.

So, before making the decision to move, it’s crucial to add up all these elements to get a realistic view of the financial implications. Even within desirable areas like Redondo Beach or other parts of Los Angeles South Bay, moving costs can be quite variable and should be thoroughly researched and planned for.

By going through this exhaustive list, you’ll be better equipped to weigh the pros and cons of moving against staying put and renovating your current residence. As always, I’m here to guide you through these decisions, particularly if you’re looking to navigate the Los Angeles South Bay real estate landscape.

Factor in other expenditures 

In addition to the typical costs of renovating, there are ancillary costs that may pop up.

Permits and architectural plans

Depending on the type of renovation, you may need to hire an architect to plan the design. Also, any excavation, plumbing, electrical work, or structural alterations you want to make to your property will require you to apply and pay for the necessary permits through your local building and construction department.

Living accommodations

Should your renovation project be on the larger side, you might find yourself without a livable space in your home for a period. In that case, you’ll need to secure temporary living arrangements. Whether you opt for a short-term rental or stay with family in, this will add to your overall expenses. It’s something people often overlook, but planning for it can save you from unexpected financial strain later on.

There are plenty of reasons to renovate or relocate, including wanting a larger space or more modern amenities or being interested in a more prestigious neighborhood. Each option is likely to be quite expensive, so it’s essential to take the time to evaluate not only the financial aspect but also the lifestyle you desire and the social and emotional impact either decision will have on your family.

Wrapping It Up

Both renovating and relocating come with their own sets of appeals and drawbacks. You might be craving a more spacious home, modern features, or even a move to a more upscale community. These changes don’t come cheap. It’s crucial to sit down and consider not just the financial ramifications but also how each option aligns with the lifestyle you envision for your family. What’s more, the emotional aspects—like how your family will adapt to a new environment or adjust to living through a renovation—should not be underestimated. Therefore, take your time, weigh your options, and make the decision that will enrich your life in the Los Angeles South Bay.