Renovating with 2026 in Mind: Smart Moves Today for Value Tomorrow

Grant Matterson LJ Hooker Narrabeen

Grant Matterson

Jan 30, 2026

In today’s post you will find-

Renovating with 2026 in Mind: Smart Moves Today for Value Tomorrow
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Renovating with 2026 in Mind: Smart Moves Today for Value Tomorrow

As we look toward 2026, the renovation landscape is evolving — driven by changing lifestyles, sustainability goals, and shifting buyer expectations. Whether you’re renovating to stay, sell, or simply refresh your space, planning with the future in mind will help you get more value from your project. Here are five key tips to guide your renovation decisions now, for the gain later.

1. Think Long-Term Lifestyle First

While trendy finishes might be tempting, the smartest renovations align with how you’ll live — and how buyers will live — in two to three years’ time.

Consider flexible spaces: home-office, blended indoor/outdoor living, zones for different age groups.
Prioritise comfort and functionality: good lighting, storage, thermal performance.
Ask: If you were selling in 2026, what would appeal to the buyer? If you’re staying many years, what will you value?

By thinking ahead, you’ll avoid having to redo things again when tastes shift or you move.

2. Upgrade the Fundamentals Before the ‘Look’

In the same way that loan-specialists emphasise getting your finance and structure right, renovation professionals know that the “invisible” parts often give the best return. For example:

Improving insulation, windows or doors to boost energy efficiency.
Re-wiring or plumbing repairs before cosmetic walls go up.
Upgrading the flow of the home (kitchen/dining connection, laundry access, etc).

These are the kinds of features that increasingly matter to buyers as energy costs rise and environmental awareness grows. A smart investment now pays dividends later.

3. Match Renovation Scale to Market Timing & Budget

Every project needs a realistic budget, of course — but it also needs timing. For 2026 focus:

Smaller ‘refresh’ works (paint, fixtures, landscaping) can deliver good value in a shorter timeframe.
Major structural changes (adding a second storey, chasing 6-star energy rating) are more expensive, take longer, and expose you to more risk if market conditions shift.
If you plan to sell around 2026, align your finish and spend with what the local market expects rather than over-capitalising.

Keep in mind interest rate, materials and labour cost volatility — and the fact that holding costs (insurance, rates, maintenance) can erode returns the longer the renovation drags on.

4. Choose Timeless Design with a Nod to “Next-Gen” Appeal

Design trends come and go, but some features are enduring — and others are becoming must-haves for 2026 buyers.

Neutral palettes + good quality finishes create a fresh, broad appeal.
Kitchens and bathrooms remain high-value zones — but now buyers also expect smart storage and technology integration.
Outdoor living: With the shift toward more time at home and entertaining, well-designed alfresco zones will continue to sell.
Sustainability features: Solar panels, water-saving fixtures, native landscaping. Not only do they help the planet, but they are increasingly seen as value-add for resale.

Think of your renovation not just for you, but also for the future occupant — perhaps someone with different habits, priorities or technology expectations.

5. Stay Informed & Get the Right Advice

Much like navigating home-loan options, successful renovations come down to good preparation, realistic expectations and expert help.

Use checklists and cost » benefit frameworks: What will this renovation add in value vs. cost?
Speak to local renovators and agents to understand what buyers in your suburb will pay extra for.
Monitor macro-factors: interest rates, lending conditions, supply chains for materials. (As with home loans, external forces matter.)
Keep a buffer in budget and time: Unforeseen issues often appear once walls are opened up.
Get a lending specialist on board. They can help you understand what can be financed, how it’s done, and what you need to focus on so your plans are acceptable to the lender. Added tip – don’t use your credit card and then try and roll it into your home loan later. Lenders hate that!

By staying informed you’ll avoid “surprise” costs — and align your renovation with broader property market realities.

Final Word

When you view renovation through a “2026 lens”, you’ll be better placed to make smart, strategic decisions today. By focusing on long-term lifestyle, delivering strong fundamentals, matching scale to your market, selecting timeless yet next-gen design, and leaning on trusted advice, you’ll not only love your renovated home — you’ll be well positioned for whatever comes next, whether you stay, sell or shift.
If you’d like to discuss how this fits with your home-loan or borrowing strategy, speak to one of our lending specialists and consider integrating your renovation plan with your finance roadmap.