In today’s housing market, it’s one of the questions I hear most often here in Placer County:
“Should we remodel… or should we move?”
There isn’t a single right answer—but here’s a breakdown of the pros, cons, and things to consider before you decide.
Remodeling: Enjoy Now & Preserve Value
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Many popular projects—like updating kitchens, remodeling bathrooms, or adding outdoor living space—can increase your home's resale value. But keep in mind they typically recoup about 50–80% of their cost, depending on the project.
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Essential upgrades like a new roof, updated plumbing, or HVAC systems won’t necessarily “pay for themselves” in resale—but they protect and maintain your home's value and marketability.
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Perhaps the biggest advantage? You get to stay put—keeping your lower mortgage rate if you’ve locked in something in the 3–4% range, which many homeowners have.
Moving: Start Fresh & Maximize Buyer Appeal
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Selling your current home and buying another gives you the opportunity to find a space, layout, yard, or location that better suits your lifestyle right now.
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Buyers typically pay the most for updated, turnkey homes that are staged and ready to move into—sometimes at prices higher than what you could achieve just by remodeling.
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The trade-off: today’s mortgage rates are in the mid-to-high 6% range. If you currently have a rate in the 3s or 4s, buying a new home—even at the same price—could mean a higher monthly payment.
How Do You Decide?
Ask yourself:
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✅ Will remodeling actually fix the things I’m frustrated with? (space, layout, location)
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✅ Am I comfortable investing in renovations knowing I may only recoup part of the cost?
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✅ Is it worth trading my current low mortgage rate for a higher one to get a home that fits my life better today?
If you’d like, I’m always happy to do a walk-through of your home and share which improvements tend to add the most value in our local market. Or, we can sit down and compare the numbers—remodeling vs. selling—to see what makes the most sense for you.
Call or text: (916) 316-5626
Visit: www.OwnPlacer.com
☀️ Placer County This Weekend (July 24–27, 2025)
Looking for something fun to do? Here are three standout local events happening this weekend:
California State Fair (Sacramento)
Now through July 27
Live concerts, carnival rides, horse racing, craft beer, food, and family fun!
More info →
Parks & Big Trucks Day + Free Swim (Auburn)
Saturday, July 26 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Kids can explore fire trucks, bulldozers & more—plus free swim at Sierra Pool.
More info →
Concerts at Commons Beach (Tahoe City)
Sunday, July 27 • 4–7 PM
Free lakeside concert featuring local and regional artists—bring a blanket and enjoy!
More info →
If you’re weighing whether to remodel or move—or just curious what your home is worth today—feel free to reach out.
Enjoy your weekend and stay cool, Placer County!
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