Should 

You 

Move 

or 

Renovate? 

What to Consider Before Tearing Down Your Kitchen

Tearing down your kitchen is a big decision—and it’s often just the beginning. Before you swing the first hammer, it’s worth asking the age-old question: Is it better to renovate… or relocate?

At Square One Construction, we’ve worked with countless homeowners facing this same crossroads. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are clear factors that can help guide the right choice for you.

Cost Comparison: What’s Cheaper?

It might surprise you, but moving can often cost more than a full kitchen renovation—especially when you factor in realtor fees, legal costs, moving expenses, and the premium of buying a new home in BC’s current market.

On the flip side, major renovations (like gutting a kitchen) are no small investment. If your renovation wishlist includes layout changes, electrical and plumbing updates, or custom millwork, you’re likely looking at $50,000 to $80,000+ depending on scope.

💡 Pro Tip: Get a few quotes before making assumptions. Sometimes, a mid-range renovation (with smart planning) can get you everything you need—without uprooting your life.

Location, Lifestyle, and Long-Term Plans

Ask yourself:

• Do you love your neighbourhood?
• Is your commute ideal?
• Are your kids in a great school district?

If the answer is yes, then renovation might be the better choice. A kitchen transformation can breathe new life into a home you already love—without the stress of packing boxes or adjusting to a new routine.

However, if your home no longer fits your lifestyle—say you’re looking for more space, better layout, or newer systems—it might be time to explore the market.

The Kitchen’s Role in Your Home

In many homes, the kitchen is more than a place to cook—it’s the heart of the home. If you love entertaining, or your kitchen is a central hub for your family, upgrading it can drastically improve how your home feels.

Renovation allows for:

• Custom storage and design that matches how you live
• Improved flow between kitchen, dining, and living spaces
• Upgraded appliances and materials for better efficiency and value

If your existing kitchen just isn’t working, but the rest of your home is great, tearing down and rebuilding the kitchen can offer the best of both worlds.

Emotional and Time Investment

Renovations take time—and patience. There will be noise, dust, and likely a temporary kitchen setup. On average, full kitchen remodels take 8–12 weeks, plus planning and design time.

Moving, on the other hand, can be faster—but emotionally taxing. You’ll leave behind neighbours, memories, and familiar routines.

Consider what type of disruption you’re more willing to tolerate: ☐ Short-term inconvenience (renovation) ☐ Full lifestyle change (moving)

Resale Value and ROI

If resale value is a factor in your decision, know this: Kitchens consistently rank as one of the top remodels for return on investment. A well-designed kitchen can boost your home’s resale value and attract more buyers down the line.

That said, if your neighbourhood has a price ceiling, investing heavily in a kitchen renovation may not translate into increased sale price. That’s where a builder who understands your local market comes in.

Renovate or Relocate?

Here’s how to frame the decision:

• If you love your location and the rest of your home still works for you, renovate.
• If the kitchen is just one of many things you’d like to change, moving might make more sense.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Whether you decide to tear it all down or start fresh somewhere else, we’re here to walk you through the possibilities.

📧 info@squareoneconstruction.ca 📞 (778) 400‑7948

Let’s start at Square One—and build what’s next, together.