The Big Gamble…
Is it better to Renovate or Sell in 2025?
As a local modern and traditional building firm working across Devon, one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners this year is:
“Is it better to renovate or sell in 2025?”
With rising house prices, changing lifestyles, and tightening energy standards, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s our take on what to consider—plus why renovating might make more sense than you think.
🏠 Why Renovate in 2025?
1. The Housing Market is Cooling Off
While UK house prices saw significant growth over the past few years, 2025 has brought a more stable (and sometimes slower) market. This means selling might not deliver the profit homeowners had hoped for—especially once you factor in estate agent fees, stamp duty on a new property, and moving costs.
2. You Can Tailor Your Space to Your Needs
With more people working from home, needing multigenerational setups, or simply wanting more usable space, a renovation or extension can adapt your current home without the stress of relocating.
Whether it's a loft conversion for a new office, an open-plan kitchen for family life, or an energy-efficient refit to cut your bills—your current property might have more potential than you realise.
3. Energy Efficiency Grants Are Helping
In line with the UK’s Future Homes Standard and Net Zero goals, government-backed loans and grants (like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or Local Authority retrofit schemes) can make it more affordable to improve your home’s insulation, heating, and carbon footprint. A smart retrofit now can futureproof your home and increase its value.
🏚️ When Selling Might Be the Better Option
Of course, renovating isn’t always the best route. Selling may be a better choice if:
Your current home no longer suits your location needs (schools, commute, etc.).
The structure has major issues (like subsidence or flood risk).
Local planning laws make your ideal extension or redesign impossible.
You're downsizing or need a significant equity release quickly.
🔨 Real Talk: Renovation Isn’t Always Cheap—But It Can Be Worth It
We’re honest with our clients: renovation can be disruptive and involves upfront cost. But we’ve seen time and again how a well-planned extension, kitchen refit, or energy-efficient upgrade transforms how people feel about their homes—and often adds more value than it costs.
If you love your location but feel frustrated with the layout, energy bills, or outdated style of your home, renovation could give you the best of both worlds.
📍 Need Advice? We’re Local—And We Listen
At Odell Building & Restoration, we specialise in helping homeowners across the South West decide whether to extend, renovate, or start fresh. If you’re on the fence, we offer free consultations to talk through your options, budget, and what's possible on your plot.
Sometimes the biggest improvement doesn’t mean moving—it just means reimagining what’s already there.
Thinking about renovating in 2025?
We are a small, family run business based in North Devon, with over ten years of experience working within all aspects of the building trade. We know it can seem a complicated business, but we’re here to help - click here to get in touch.