Should You Move or Remodel?

Homeownership comes with an ongoing question: should you make your current space work through remodeling, or is it smarter to move into a new home that already fits your needs? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are clear factors to help guide your decision.

1. Cost Comparison

Remodeling projects can add value and make your home more functional, but expenses often run higher than expected. Compare the estimated cost of your desired remodel to what it would take to purchase a home that already offers those features.

2. Market Insight

After more than two years of steadily rising home inventory, August 2025 saw a slight dip in the number of homes for sale in the Twin Cities metro. While the market has had more options for buyers for a long time, this first pullback signals that inventory may be tightening — meaning competition could pick up again. If supply is limited in the type of home you want, a remodel may make sense. If inventory is opening up, exploring a move could give you more options without waiting.

3. Timing and Disruption

A remodel means months of construction and living in a work zone. Moving involves packing and relocating, but once you’re settled, the disruption is over. Consider which type of temporary inconvenience fits your lifestyle best.

4. Long-Term Goals

Think about how long you plan to stay put. If you’re likely to outgrow your current home in a few years, a remodel might be a short-term fix. If you love your neighborhood and want to stay for the long haul, investing in upgrades could pay off.

5. Return on Investment

Not all renovations add equal value. Kitchen and bath remodels often have the strongest return, while highly customized projects may be harder to recoup. Compare potential ROI with the equity you could leverage by selling and purchasing a new home.

The Bottom Line

Whether you remodel or move, the key is choosing the option that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle. Both paths can lead to a better fit — it’s just a matter of which makes more sense for you right now.

👉 Not sure if moving or remodeling makes sense? Let’s walk through your options together.