🛠️ Should You Renovate or Sell As-Is in New Farm?
📍 What’s the Market Doing in New Farm?
New Farm remains one of the city’s strongest performers, with:
A median house price over $3 million
High buyer demand for character homes, riverfront apartments, and prestige townhomes
Buyers valuing walkability, lifestyle, and exclusivity
In this market, buyers are discerning, and presentation plays a huge role in your final result — but that doesn’t mean every home needs a top-to-toe renovation.
✅ Renovate If…
You should consider renovating before listing if:
The property has outdated kitchens or bathrooms that would put off prestige buyers
There are visible cosmetic issues like worn flooring or old fixtures
You’re targeting a high-end buyer who expects a move-in ready lifestyle
You’re selling a character home or Queenslander, and minor upgrades will protect or highlight its appeal
High-impact, prestige-friendly upgrades include:
Designer lighting
Neutral paint
Timber floor polishing
Modern bathroom fittings
Landscaping and styling for outdoor areas
These can significantly increase buyer interest and perceived value.
❌ Sell As-Is If…
Selling your New Farm property without major renovations may be smarter if:
It’s a development site or LMR-zoned block
The home has already been priced for a renovator or investor market
You don’t have the time, budget, or interest in updating
Buyers are likely to rebuild or significantly remodel anyway
In premium areas like New Farm, location often trumps condition — especially if the property sits on a wide block, has city or river views, or is walking distance to James Street or the Riverwalk.
⚠️ Be Careful Not to Overcapitalise
Even in high-value suburbs, overcapitalising is a real risk. If you spend $150,000 on renovations, make sure those upgrades actually boost your sale price — not just your style preferences.
Before renovating, always speak to a local agent who understands what buyers in your street are actually paying for.
📞 Selling in New Farm? Let’s Build the Right Strategy
At Norton Real Estate, we help New Farm sellers make confident decisions. Whether your property is a classic Queenslander, a boutique apartment, or a premium townhouse, we’ll help you decide whether to renovate, refresh — or list as-is.
We offer:
✅ Expert guidance on what adds value (and what doesn’t)
✅ Premium marketing including video, drone, and professional styling
✅ Access to qualified prestige buyers
✅ Realty Assist – Pay on Settlement for preparation and presentation costs
📧 nortons.re@gmail.com
📞 Steven Norton: 0488 496 777
📞 Lawrence Norton: 0415 279 807
Let’s make your next move in New Farm your smartest yet.
⚖️ Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal, financial, or renovation advice. Property values and buyer expectations can vary. Always consult a licensed real estate agent and/or financial adviser before making property-related decisions. Norton Real Estate accepts no responsibility for actions taken based on this content.