Should You Remodel or Move to Get More Space in Tacoma?

You’re outgrowing your home. Maybe you’re working from the dining room, toys have taken over the hallway, or you’ve welcomed another family member. Now you’re asking the big question: should you remodel—or move—to get more space in Tacoma?

As the founder of The Barnard Group at Real Broker (ΓEA⅃), I’ve helped hundreds of neighbors weigh this decision across Tacoma, Puyallup, and Orting. My goal is simple: give you clear, caring guidance so you feel confident. If you’d like a deeper one-on-one, start here: barnardgroupre.com.

Step 1: Define “space” the right way

More space isn’t only square footage. It’s how your home supports your life—quiet zones for work, room for guests, storage that actually works, and a yard where you can exhale. Write your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Then ask: can my current home become this with a smart remodel, or would moving unlock it faster?

If you’re leaning toward buying, explore our quick guide to buying a home. If investing for long-term wealth is on the table, peek at our page on investing in real estate.

When remodeling makes sense

Remodeling can be a win if your neighborhood already fits your daily life—schools, commute, faith community, friends—and your lot allows expansion. Popular updates include finishing a basement, opening walls for better flow, converting a garage, or adding a primary suite. These projects can boost value in Tacoma real estate, Puyallup real estate, and Orting real estate markets when they’re planned well.

Consider remodeling if:

• Your foundation/roof are solid and systems are healthy.

• Zoning allows additions or ADUs.

• You can live through the dust (or have a place to stay).

• Your budget plus a 10–15% buffer still makes sense.

Pro tip: Add livability first—light, storage, multi-use rooms—before chasing flashy finishes. If you plan to sell your home in Tacoma, sell your home in Puyallup, or sell your home in Orting down the road, strategic improvements help your resale story. When you’re ready to run numbers on resale, start here: Selling with The Barnard Group.

When moving is the smarter move

Moving can be the better path when your lot, layout, or location cap your options—or when costs spiral. If structural changes rival the price of a bigger home, buying often delivers more space, better layout, and immediate relief. You’ll find more choices when you search Pierce County homes for sale, and it may be easier than you think to buy a home in Tacoma, buy a home in Puyallup, or buy a home in Orting.

Consider moving if:

• Your remodel would require major structural changes.

• You need multiple new rooms (office + bedroom + bonus).

• You want a different school zone or shorter commute.

• You prefer predictable timelines over living in a construction zone.

If you’re searching “real estate agent near me,” you want a guide who listens first. That’s our heartbeat. Learn more about how we serve families with grace, systems, and care: About The Barnard Group.

Cost, equity, and timing—how to compare

Here’s a simple framework we use with clients:

1. All-in Remodel Cost
   Get at least two bids and include permits, design, contingency, and temporary housing if needed. Add up the time cost of living in a project—because peace matters.

2. Move Cost
   Price likely sale value of your current home, potential purchase price for a bigger home, closing costs, moving expenses, and the interest rate impact. We’ll also map current inventory for Pierce County homes for sale and run total payment scenarios so you can see the real picture.

3. Value After Remodel vs. Value of New Home
   What is your home likely worth after work is complete? Compare that to the market for your next home in Tacoma, Puyallup, or Orting. In some cases, the equity lift from remodeling is strong. In others, low-stress buying beats months of chaos.

4. Lifestyle Fit
   Your time is precious. Will remodeling add stress during a busy season, or could a move bring immediate order and joy? Often the emotional “fit” makes the decision clear.

Neighborhood considerations

• Tacoma: Classic homes with character, strong block pride, and urban energy. If you love your street and have expansion potential, a remodel can shine. If you need turnkey space now, buy a home in Tacoma in a layout that suits you today.

• Puyallup: Family-friendly neighborhoods and newer floor plans. You’ll see strong options whether you expand or buy a home in Puyallup with a bonus room and main-floor office.

• Orting: Scenic, peaceful, and often more land. If you dream of space to breathe, you may buy a home in Orting that already offers what you’re trying to build.

How we walk you through it

At The Barnard Group, we put you first—always. We’ll:

• Review your goals, budget, and timeline.

• Connect you with trusted contractors for real-world bids.

• Provide a custom market analysis for your current home.

• Show you tailored options to invest in real estate in Washington and compare monthly payments.

• Lay out best- and worst-case timelines for both paths.

Clients often tell us this side-by-side gives them instant clarity—and relief. That’s why people call us the best realtor in Tacoma, the best realtor in Puyallup, and the best realtor in Orting. Titles don’t matter; your peace does. But we take pride in caring for you like family.

Real talk: common myths

• “Remodels always pay for themselves.” Not always. Some projects are for love, not ROI. We’ll help you weigh both.

• “Moving is too expensive right now.” Sometimes yes—but not always. With smart negotiation and the right product type, moving can be surprisingly efficient.

• “I’ll figure it out later.” Waiting can cost equity and energy. A quick consult now can prevent months of stress.

When you’re ready to explore, start with our Buying, Selling, and Investing pages, then reach out. We’ll build a tailored, step-by-step plan—no pressure, just wisdom, honesty, and heart for your family.

Ready to make your move? Call or text Josh Barnard at 253-677-5765 or visit BarnardGroupRE.com to get started.