No, not that kind of R&R. I’m talking about renos and resale! If my phone ringing off the hook is any indication, renovations are booming in Edmonton. And no wonder. The photos above show how you can completely transform a space. Who wouldn’t want to renovate if the results are going to be this fab?!

Quite often after a client takes possession of a new home, they call me to help with renovations. 100% of the time, the first question they ask is, “What about resale? Will we get our money back?”

Wait! What? You literally just moved in! Take a moment and enjoy the place.

We always hear things like, “it’s good to be home,” or “where’s home for you?” “Home” is self-definition; it’s your physical environment.

Coco Chanel said, “An interior is a natural projection of the soul.”

So…why are you so busy thinking about selling your house again? Why are you so worried about making your money back on the renovation you’re doing? I get it—a house is a large investment, and of course you want to make decisions that won’t affect your brand new investment negatively.

But…let’s back this up a bit. Perhaps you bought the house for location or because the floor plan works perfectly for you? Or maybe it was too good a deal to resist? Am I right?

Now ask yourself:

Don’t I want to like my newly-renovated space for years to come? If I can afford a nice renovation, why wouldn’t I do what I want and enjoy it? Chances are, the next owners will change it anyway. Renovate for yourself! Just in case I haven’t been clear enough, don’t renovate your house before you sell. However, do stay on top of what needs to be fixed and fix it. Otherwise you’ll end up with a long, expensive list of things that has to happen all at once if you do decide to sell.

Here’s what I know:

We cannot predict the future. Do the reno you want and enjoy your house. You’re going to spend a lot of time in the space. It should suit your life and make you feel at home…because it IS your home!

Have I failed to convince you? Okay, well, if you’re still thinking resale, or if you bought it to flip, here are some things I’ve learned: Improvements are always worth their cost. Kitchens, floors, and walls are always fabulous for resale. There is no average reno cost.

So, go forth and renovate, my friends. Make your home your own…live a little! When your perfect renovation is done, rest, relax, and recharge in a space that is made for you and no one else.