🏡 Should You Renovate or Sell As-Is in Coolangatta?
Coolangatta is one of the most iconic coastal suburbs on the Gold Coast, drawing buyers from interstate and overseas with its beachfront lifestyle, walkability, and laid-back atmosphere. But when it comes time to sell your property in 2026, many owners ask the same question:
“Should I renovate before selling, or just list the home as-is?”
The answer depends on your property type, buyer expectations, and how competitive the local market is — and in Coolangatta, that varies from street to street.
📍 Coolangatta Market Snapshot (2026)
Median house price: $2,030,000
Median unit price: $1,142,500
12-month house price growth: +12.5%
Median time on market: ~52 days
Buyer profile: Lifestyle buyers, downsizers, Airbnb investors, prestige relocators
✅ Renovate If…
In Coolangatta, it makes sense to renovate before selling when:
You’re competing with renovated apartments or modern homes nearby
The kitchen or bathrooms feel dated or poorly maintained
Your target buyer wants a turnkey beach lifestyle (common in this area)
You want to stand out in a crowded complex or older street
High-impact updates that can add value:
Fresh white paint for a coastal feel
Modern kitchen handles, tapware, and lighting
Replacing tired flooring with timber or high-end vinyl
Updating bathroom vanities or adding frameless glass screens
Styling balconies or outdoor areas for lifestyle appeal
❌ Sell As-Is If…
You may be better off selling without renovations if:
The property is in an older block targeted by developers or flippers
It has stunning ocean views or direct beach access that drive value regardless of condition
Your buyers are investors or Airbnb operators who plan to upgrade themselves
You’re in a street where land value is the key drawcard
In many cases, Coolangatta buyers — especially from Sydney or Melbourne — are happy to renovate if the location is right.
⚠️ Don’t Overcapitalise
Renovating a beachfront or view-based property too heavily can actually backfire. Spending $80,000 on high-end fixtures may not return a dollar more if your buyer intends to personalise or completely update the property anyway.
Focus on clean, functional, well-presented — not over-designed.
📞 Selling in Coolangatta? We’ll Help You Decide Smartly
At Norton Real Estate, we know the Coolangatta market street by street — from Kirra Hill to Rainbow Bay. Whether you’re selling a lock-and-leave apartment, a holiday rental, or a prestige beach home, we’ll help you build a selling strategy that works.
We offer:
✅ Expert advice on what adds value (and what doesn’t)
✅ Full marketing with video, drone, twilight photos, and social media
✅ Access to interstate lifestyle buyers and investors
✅ Realty Assist – Pay on Settlement for styling and upgrade costs
📧 nortons.re@gmail.com
📞 Steven Norton: 0488 496 777
📞 Lawrence Norton: 0415 279 807
Let’s make sure your Coolangatta property is ready for the right buyer — without overdoing it.
⚖️ Disclaimer
This blog is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal, financial, or renovation advice. Always consult a qualified real estate professional before making decisions about upgrades or property sales. Norton Real Estate is not responsible for actions taken based on this content.