Should You Renovate or Leave It As-Is? How to Know When It’s Worth It
Renovations are one of those things homeowners tend to wrestle with. You might look at an outdated kitchen, a tired bathroom, or an unfinished basement and think: Should I go for it, or is it better to leave it for the next owner?
There isn’t one right answer, but there are good ways to figure out what makes the most sense for your home, your budget, and your long-term plans.
Start With Your Goals
Ask yourself what you’re really trying to accomplish.
Most homeowners fall into one of three groups:
• Improve comfort & lifestyle (you want a better space for your family)
• Increase property value (you may sell in the future and want a return)
• Repair damage or fix a problem (water, rot, leaks, structural issues, etc.)
Your answer changes how you should look at the renovation.
When Renovating Makes Sense
Renovations make the most sense when:
• The layout or design is hurting how you use the space
• Major systems are aging (plumbing, electrical, waterproofing)
• Damage or moisture is present (delaying only makes it worse)
• You plan to stay in the home for a few years or more
• Comparable homes in your area are more updated
• You want to increase rental value or finish a suite
• The work will solve safety or structural concerns
Renovating isn’t just about “making things nicer.” Often it’s about protecting the home, improving function, and future-proofing the space.
When It’s Better to Leave Things As-Is
Sometimes skipping the renovation is actually smarter, especially when:
• You expect to sell soon and buyers might want to choose finishes
• The renovation would push you past the price ceiling in your neighbourhood
• The space works fine for your lifestyle as-is
• The only motive is cosmetic and budget is tight
• Repairs are enough to get things through another few years
A quick cleanup, paint, or small touch-ups can be surprisingly effective in these cases.
Think in Terms of Return — Financial or Personal
There’s ROI (return on investment) and then there’s ROE (return on enjoyment).
Both matter, but they’re not always equal.
Examples:
• A basement suite might pay for itself through rental income.
• A new kitchen won’t “pay rent,” but can change how you live day to day.
• Waterproofing or drainage won’t impress buyers visually, but protects the home long-term.
Market Trends Matter Too
In the Fraser Valley, we see consistent buyer demand for:
• Legal suites / basement finishes
• Updated kitchens and bathrooms
• Waterproofing and exterior durability upgrades
• Outdoor spaces (decks, patios, covered areas)
• Energy-efficient improvements
Homes that have these tend to move faster and hold value better.
Renovating When Selling
If you’re getting ready to sell, renovations can be strategic.
The focus should be on:
• First impressions
• High-use areas
• Repairs buyers would flag on inspection
Not every reno makes sense right before listing, but the right one can put you in a different price bracket.
Our Approach at Prestige Valley Construction
We always start with the practicality of the space first.
If a repair is smarter than a full renovation, we’ll say so. If the renovation unlocks value or function, we’ll explain why.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on the home, the person, and the timeline.
Thinking About Renovating Now or Later?
If you’ve been unsure whether to renovate, repair, or hold off, feel free to reach out. A quick walkthrough or even a couple photos can help us give honest advice based on your goals.
Prestige Valley Construction
Serving Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Langley & Fraser Valley
📞 778-716-6222
🌐 PrestigeValley.ca
