You don’t remodel a home in Santa Monica just to keep up. You do it to stand out. In a city where architecture, lifestyle, and market value are all part of the same conversation, the right renovation can turn a good property into a great one. Whether you're upgrading for yourself or prepping for resale, these home remodeling tips will help you avoid the noise and focus on what really works in this uniquely competitive coastal market.
1. Maximize Indoor-Outdoor Living
One of the most rewarding upgrades for Santa Monica homeowners is improving the connection between indoor and outdoor living. With the city’s mild coastal climate, outdoor spaces are an extension of your home, and remodeling with this in mind can dramatically transform how the space functions and feels.
Floor-to-ceiling glass doors, retractable walls, and continuous flooring materials that flow from inside to out can make your interiors feel more expansive and integrated with nature. Plus, these types of updates do more than just enhance your quality of life; they also appeal to buyers who value the relaxed, open-air Santa Monica lifestyle.
2. Choose Timeless Over Trendy
Design trends come and go, especially in style-forward markets like Santa Monica. But when it comes to remodeling, timeless choices typically win, both in resale value and long-term enjoyment.
Think warm neutrals, natural materials, and high-quality finishes. Subway tile, wide-plank oak flooring, and simple yet elegant fixtures tend to hold up across decades. If you want to play with trends, do it through paint, décor, or replaceable hardware, not major surfaces.
Timeless doesn’t mean boring. It means smart. Especially in a high-end market, thoughtful restraint often reads as elevated design.
3. Focus on Function in the Kitchen and Bath
Kitchens and bathrooms are the spaces that sell homes, and where remodeling investments can go furthest. In Santa Monica, where many homes are older, it’s especially important to bring these rooms up to modern standards while respecting architectural integrity.
In kitchens, open layouts with a central island are highly desirable. Consider energy-efficient appliances, innovative storage solutions, and lighting that can shift from bright task to ambient evening settings. For bathrooms, large walk-in showers, clean lines, and updated tile create a spa-like feel buyers love.
One of the most valuable home remodeling tips? Don’t overspend on luxury materials if layout or storage hasn’t been addressed. Flow and function matter just as much as finish.
4. Be Mindful of Local Regulations
Santa Monica has specific guidelines when it comes to permitting, zoning, and environmental impact, especially for larger renovations. Whether you’re building an ADU, expanding your square footage, or adjusting setbacks, always work with contractors and architects familiar with local rules.
Time delays due to permitting can be expensive, and failing to comply with city codes can affect future resale. Luckily, Margaux Glaser can recommend vetted local professionals who understand how to navigate Santa Monica’s approval process efficiently and legally.
5. Improve Energy Efficiency
In Santa Monica, sustainability has moved beyond trend status. It's a core part of how people live and what they expect from a home. Today’s buyers are looking for properties that reflect a commitment to energy efficiency, and the right upgrades can reduce your monthly costs while significantly increasing long-term value.
Simple changes like installing smart thermostats, upgrading to energy-efficient windows, and switching to low-flow plumbing fixtures make an immediate impact. If your roof is due for replacement, adding solar panels is a smart move, especially with state incentives still in play. And for older homes, improving insulation or updating the HVAC system can greatly enhance comfort and appeal.
These upgrades do more than check a box. They align your property with the values of modern buyers who prioritize thoughtful, eco-conscious living.
6. Don’t Forget Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, particularly in a walkable neighborhood like Santa Monica. Whether buyers are browsing online or doing a casual drive-by, the exterior of your home sets the tone.
That’s why fresh paint, updated light fixtures, drought-tolerant landscaping, and a well-designed entryway can go a long way. Consider replacing an outdated front door, adding custom house numbers, or installing subtle outdoor lighting for an elevated touch.
Curb appeal may not be a “remodel” in the traditional sense, but it’s one of the most impactful upgrades you can make.
7. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
When remodeling, it's tempting to take on several projects at once, but spreading the budget too thin can lead to underwhelming results. It’s often better to focus on one or two key updates and do them really well.
Santa Monica buyers have high expectations, and visible quality matters. Poor craftsmanship or low-end finishes stand out, especially when compared to nearby homes. Thoughtful, high-quality improvements will pay off in both appeal and durability.
8. Think Like a Buyer (Even If You’re Not Selling Yet)
Even if you're not planning to move anytime soon, it's wise to approach renovations with long-term value in mind. Will this update appeal to future buyers? Does it improve flow, light, or usability?
Local buyers are design-savvy, but they're also practical. They’re looking for homes that feel custom, but not overly personalized. This mindset can help you strike the right balance between expressing your style and making wise investments.
Ready to Remodel With Purpose?
If you’re considering upgrades and want guidance tailored to your neighborhood, goals, and timeline, Margaux Glaser offers trusted expertise and local insight that goes beyond the basics. Her deep understanding of what buyers want, paired with her eye for design and market value, makes her an invaluable partner for any Santa Monica homeowner looking to remodel strategically.
If you’re ready to get started, contact
Margaux Glaser today to learn more or schedule a consultation. Your dream home awaits!
