Should You Renovate or Sell?

We get this question all the time: "Should I fix up my home, or is it better to sell and move on?"

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but this short guide will help you decide based on logic, lifestyle, and the current market.


The Honest Truth

Most renovations don’t pay back 100% of what you spend. If you're spending a nickel and can't get a dime, it might not be worth the hammer.

But some updates do add value or make your home easier to sell. This guide will help you sort the smart improvements from the sunk costs.

Renovate If...

  • You love your location and plan to stay 5+ years

  • Your layout works, but the home is outdated

  • You're prepared for temporary disruption (and budget overages)

  • Comparable homes in your area support your upgraded value

Sell If...

  • You need more space, a different layout, or a different location

  • Renovation costs exceed what the market can bear

  • You're already mentally done with the home

  • You're trying to renovate just to sell

The Decision Checklist

Ask yourself:

  • Do you have the time, money, and patience for renovations?

  • Have you spoken with a REALTOR® about your home’s current value and resale ceiling?

  • Could you find something better suited without renovating?

If you answered “no” to any of these, selling might be the more strategic move.

Best Improvements That Add Value (Alberta Appraiser Insights)

High-Impact, Good ROI

  • Painting (interior/exterior): Fresh, neutral paint can return 60–100%

  • Minor kitchen refresh: Cabinet updates, backsplash, lighting (65–85%)

  • Bathroom updates: Fixtures, vanity, re-grouting (60–75%)

  • New flooring: Especially hard surface over dated carpet (70–80%)

  • Curb appeal: Front door, landscaping (70–90%)

  • Light fixture upgrades: Small change, modern feel (60–75%)

Conditional Value

  • Basement development: Adds space, but value depends on permits & quality

  • Garage upgrades: Useful, but doesn’t always increase resale

  • Decks & patios: Can return 50–70% if well-maintained

  • Home office: Mixed ROI, but increasingly relevant

Low ROI or Risky

  • Luxury kitchens/baths: Often cost more than they return

  • Pools/hot tubs: Limited Calgary appeal, high maintenance

  • Over-customization: Unique finishes may limit resale

Want a Real-World Opinion?

A practical guide to making the right move

Deciding whether to renovate or sell isn’t always straightforward. The right answer depends on more than renovation costs — it also comes down to lifestyle, timing, and what the market will realistically support.

This guide is designed to help you think it through clearly, without pressure or sales talk.

Data is supplied by Pillar 9™ MLS® System. Pillar 9™ is the owner of the copyright in its MLS®System. Data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by Pillar 9™.
The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.