The Evolving Mindset of Perth Homeowners
In today’s property landscape, more West Australians are choosing to upgrade rather than uproot. With real estate listings at record lows, stamp duty costs on the rise, and the complexities of relocating increasing, homeowners are embracing a longer-term perspective: future-proofing their homes instead of replacing them.
At Addstyle, over the past 37 years we’ve seen this shift firsthand. Families in 2025 are no longer renovating just for immediate lifestyle upgrades – they’re reimagining their homes to meet the needs of the next decade (and beyond). Whether it’s accommodating adult children, ageing parents, or creating a home that adapts to modern living demands, this trend is transforming the way Perth renovates.
As WA’s most awarded home renovation and extension company, we’ve been at the forefront of this evolution for more than 35 years. Here’s what’s driving the movement:
Why Perth Families Are Thinking Long-Term
1. The True Cost of Moving is Higher Than Ever
Relocating used to be a simple equation: outgrow your home, move to a bigger one. Today, that equation doesn’t add up.
Stamp duty, real estate commissions, marketing, settlement fees, and removal costs can easily exceed $80,000 on a $1 million home. Add to that the challenge of finding a suitable replacement in your desired area, and it’s clear why renovating has become the smarter financial choice.
2. Low Stock is Forcing Hands—and Inspiring Creativity
According to the Real Estate Institute of WA, at the time of writing, there are fewer than 4000 houses listed in Perth – down from more than 13,000 in 2019. For many families, staying put and investing in a high-quality extension or second storey is more achievable than battling a competitive property market.
3. The Multi-Generational Home is Back
Young adults are staying home longer. Some families are inviting ageing parents into the household. Others are preparing for a future where flexibility, privacy, and independence under one roof are vital.
Rather than moving, families are reconfiguring their existing homes to evolve with life’s stages—and ensuring they still work beautifully 10, 15, even 20 years down the line. Whether that’s an ancilliary dwelling such as this one in Menora or a home addition under the same roof, Perth families are making space to live longer together, under the same roof.
4. Homes Need to Work Harder Than Ever
The modern family home is no longer just a residence. It’s a workplace, a classroom, a retreat, and a social hub. That’s why we’re seeing growing demand for:
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Second living zones for teens or guests
- Expansive and well-equipt Alfresco Areas for year-round entertaining
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Multi-purpose living-areas that evolve with family needs
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Home offices and study nooks
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Kitchen and scullery expansions
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Self-contained additions with ensuite and lounge
What Does Future-Proofing a Home Actually Mean?
Future-proofing is about designing your home for longevity. It’s making smart decisions today that prevent limitations or regrets tomorrow.
Key Elements Include:
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Designing for flexibility – rooms that adapt over time such as playrooms come theatre rooms, come gyms.
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Realistically sized rooms in extensions – minor bedrooms that will can evolve from a single bed to a queen-sized
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Thermal and acoustic performance – aerated concrete floorbase in second storey additions for comfortable living
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Energy efficiency and smart tech – double-glazing is a popular upgrade
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Accessibility planning – for later-in-life mobility needs
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Staged construction planning – so you can remain in the home throughout works
How to Future-Proof Your Home the Right Way
✅ Choose a Design-Led Builder
Not all builders are created equal. At Addstyle, our process begins with collaborative and considered design. We consider the architecture, the lifestyle, and the long-term vision. We design as a team to collaborate on the best outcome for each client.
✅ Avoid Fast-Track Solutions
Speed is tempting, but often leads to regrets. Many budget builders offer “quick wins” that don’t stand the test of time. We’re regularly engaged to remove and replace previous extensions constructed by volume-focused and speed-based builders.
Choose a builder who takes the time to do it properly – from planning through to construction.
✅ Insist on Full Service
There’s no need to spend thousands on an independent designer who is paid regardless of whether the project proceeds. A full-service ‘design-and-build’ renovator will ensure that the design meets your requirements while providing up-to-date cost transparancy. Full service includes:
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Architectural design
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Planning approvals
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Council lobbying (if required)
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Interior desigm guidence
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Meticulous construction by trusted, quality trades and supervision
At Addstyle, we manage it all – so you don’t have to.
Build with the Future in Mind
Future-proofing is a shift in how smart homeowners are thinking about investment. Whether you’re preparing for children to stay longer, planning for multigenerational living, or simply want your home to grow with you, a strategic, design-focused renovation will reward you for years to come.
At Addstyle, we specialise in helping Perth families reimagine their homes – through expert guidance, architectural design, and award-winning execution.
Book Your Complimentary Consultation
If you’re considering a second-storey addition, extension, or full renovation, we invite you to book a complimentary consultation with one of our design consultants.
Let’s explore the potential in your home and help you stay where you love, while building for everything that’s still to come.
