Move or Improve? The January Question
With the festive season wrapped up and we step into January, many people take a moment to reflect on their living situations. Christmas provides one of the rare stretches of time where we truly live in our homes rather than simply passing through them.
The extra days spent indoors, whether it’s hosting family gatherings or working from the kitchen table, often bring long-ignored frustrations into sharp focus.
You might have noticed a cramped layout, a distinct lack of storage space that leaves your home feeling cluttered and chaotic, or perhaps the realisation that you’re missing that all important extra bathroom which could ease the morning rush.
You might even have found that your current space simply doesn’t fit your evolving lifestyle, whether due to changes in family size, work arrangements, or personal preferences.
Jon Curtis-Hawker MNAEA, Residential Sales Manager from our Ivybridge office explains: "As the New Year begins, many homeowners find themselves grappling with a familiar yet important question: should we move to a new home, or should we improve our existing one?
On one hand, moving offers the enticing appeal of a fresh start—new rooms, new surroundings, and the opportunity to tick off those boxes that your current property never quite managed to fulfil. The thrill of relocating, exploring new neighbourhoods or upgrading to a house that meets all your needs can be very appealing, especially as you consider the possibilities that come with a new environment.
On the other hand, improving your current residence allows you the chance to reimagine what you already have. Home improvements such as extensions or renovations can dramatically transform both how your home looks and functions. Imagine adding an extra room for guests, creating a dedicated workspace, or simply redesigning your living area to make it more inviting. However, it’s essential to recognise that this is not always a feasible option. It's important to balance desire with budget as the costs associated with construction and home improvements are a crucial part of the decision-making process."
If you are considering your options moving forward and thinking of either selling or renting your property in 2026, we would love to help you navigate these choices.
Our teams are dedicated to providing honest, straightforward, and no-obligation advice tailored to your unique situation. Whether you decide to move or improve, we are here to support you every step of the way.
If you’d like to find out more about selling your home with us, arrange a free property valuation or simply seek advice on your next steps, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your local team.
The extra days spent indoors, whether it’s hosting family gatherings or working from the kitchen table, often bring long-ignored frustrations into sharp focus.
You might have noticed a cramped layout, a distinct lack of storage space that leaves your home feeling cluttered and chaotic, or perhaps the realisation that you’re missing that all important extra bathroom which could ease the morning rush.
You might even have found that your current space simply doesn’t fit your evolving lifestyle, whether due to changes in family size, work arrangements, or personal preferences.
Jon Curtis-Hawker MNAEA, Residential Sales Manager from our Ivybridge office explains: "As the New Year begins, many homeowners find themselves grappling with a familiar yet important question: should we move to a new home, or should we improve our existing one?
On one hand, moving offers the enticing appeal of a fresh start—new rooms, new surroundings, and the opportunity to tick off those boxes that your current property never quite managed to fulfil. The thrill of relocating, exploring new neighbourhoods or upgrading to a house that meets all your needs can be very appealing, especially as you consider the possibilities that come with a new environment.
On the other hand, improving your current residence allows you the chance to reimagine what you already have. Home improvements such as extensions or renovations can dramatically transform both how your home looks and functions. Imagine adding an extra room for guests, creating a dedicated workspace, or simply redesigning your living area to make it more inviting. However, it’s essential to recognise that this is not always a feasible option. It's important to balance desire with budget as the costs associated with construction and home improvements are a crucial part of the decision-making process."
If you are considering your options moving forward and thinking of either selling or renting your property in 2026, we would love to help you navigate these choices.
Our teams are dedicated to providing honest, straightforward, and no-obligation advice tailored to your unique situation. Whether you decide to move or improve, we are here to support you every step of the way.
If you’d like to find out more about selling your home with us, arrange a free property valuation or simply seek advice on your next steps, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your local team.