New Home, New Needs: When to Renovate After Buying (and When to Wait).

Buying a new home in Canberra is exciting — but once the keys are in your hand, the next big question is: Should you renovate straight away, or live in the home for a while first?

It’s a common dilemma for buyers, and the right answer depends on your lifestyle, finances, and long-term plans. Here’s how to prioritise renovation projects after moving in (and when it’s smarter to wait).

1. Safety & Compliance Issues

If your building report flagged unsafe wiring, asbestos, or plumbing faults, these should be addressed immediately.

• Example: Upgrading an old switchboard or removing asbestos-containing materials.
• Backed by SafeWork ACT requirements, these works keep your home compliant and safe.

2. Essential Liveability

If the kitchen is barely functional, or the bathroom leaks, fixing these before moving in avoids double handling

• Costs: Kitchen upgrades in Canberra range from $15,000–$40,000+, bathrooms $20,000–$35,000.
• If budget allows, it’s worth doing upfront.
  

3. Long-Term Plans to Stay Put

If you’ve bought your “forever home,” investing early in upgrades makes sense. You’ll get maximum enjoyment from your renovations while increasing long-term value.

Renovations are costly and disruptive. Unless the work is urgent, living in your new home first can provide perspective.

1. Learn How You Use the Space

It takes time to understand how natural light, flow, and functionality work for your family. What you think you’ll change now might shift after 6–12 months of living in the property.

2. Avoid Overcapitalising

The Canberra market rewards smart upgrades, but if you plan to sell within 5 years, you risk spending more than you’ll recoup. Cosmetic changes (painting, new flooring, landscaping) may give better ROI than a full remodel.

3. Budget Recovery

Most buyers have already stretched finances for their deposit and stamp duty. Waiting a year allows you to rebuild savings and renovate more comfortably.

• Must-do immediately: Safety, compliance, and waterproofing.
  
• First 12 months: Quick wins like paint, garden tidy-ups, lighting upgrades.
  
• After 1+ years: Layout changes, extensions, or luxury upgrades once you’re settled and financially ready.
  

At Your Property Profits, we help buyers plan renovations strategically. Whether it’s fixing urgent compliance issues or mapping a staged upgrade plan, we ensure every dollar is well spent and compliant with ACT regulations.

Not every home needs instant renovations. Focus first on safety and functionality, then take time to live in your space before committing to major changes. The right timing can save you money, stress, and help you make smarter design decisions.

Is it better to renovate before moving in?

If works involve safety, plumbing, or electrical upgrades, yes. Otherwise, waiting can help you plan more wisely.

What renovations add the most value in Canberra?

Kitchens, bathrooms, and landscaping consistently deliver the best return.

Can I renovate in stages?

Absolutely. Many homeowners tackle urgent fixes first, then move to cosmetic or luxury upgrades later.

How do I avoid overcapitalising?

Research local market values and talk to an experienced renovator who understands Canberra buyer expectations.