What are other Readers interested in?

Search

The Ultimate Guide to Value-Boosting Renovations for Illawarra Homes

Joel Hynes
Apr 7
3 min read

The $150,000 Question

Imagine this: Your neighbour lists their nearly identical 3-bedder in Wollongong for $150,000 more than yours. The catch? They renovated strategically last year, and the return on their investment was substantial.

As an Illawarra local who's seen countless homes transform (and some… questionable DIY attempts), I'll let you in on a secret: Not all renos are created equal.

In 2025's competitive market, the right upgrades can mean the difference between "For Sale" and "Sold!" in record time, putting you in the driver's seat of your property's value.

By the end of this post, you will be armed with the knowledge of which renovations deliver the biggest.

Bang for your buck in our region, you can make informed decisions about your property's value enhancement.

1. The Coastal Kitchen: Your Secret Weapon

(Budget: 25k–25k–60k | ROI: Up to 85%)

Why It Works

Illawarra buyers aren't just purchasing a house but a lifestyle. A recent LJ Hooker study showed 72% of local buyers prioritise kitchens with:

✔️ Stone benchtops (Caesarstone > marble for durability)

✔️ Soft-close drawers (the ultimate luxury touch)

✔️ A splashback that nods to coastal vibes (think: sea-green tiles or recycled timber)

Pro Tip

"Skip the butler's pantry unless you're in a $1.5 m+ home," advises Shellharbour renovator Mia Chen. In most Illawarra suburbs, buyers prefer open shelving for that breezy, beach-house feel."

2. The "Indoor-Outdoor Illusion"

(Budget: 15k–15k–40k | ROI: 70–90%)

Why Illawarra Homes Need This

Our region's #1 buyer complaint? "Not enough connection to outdoors." Fix it with:

Bi-fold or stacker doors (even 3-panel systems transform spaces)
A decked alfresco zone (Merbau timber > composite for local appeal)
Outdoor shower (game-changer for beachgoers – see Thirroul's $2.1m sale at 22 Park Rd)

True Story

A Warilla client added $290k to their sale price by converting a dingy sunroom into a flow-through living/dining space with Northern Views Realty.

3. The "Stealth Wealth" Bathroom

(Budget: 12k–12k–35k | ROI: 65–80%)

2025's Winning Formula

Walk-in showers (no more tubs unless it's a family home)
Matte black tapware (still trending, but pair with warm timber)
Heated towel rails (the unsung hero of winter sales)

What to Avoid

"Rainfall showerheads in water-restriction areas scream 'tone-deaf'," laughs Kiama plumber Dave O'Connor. "Go for water-efficient fixtures with WELS 4-star ratings."