A home is about so much more than simply somewhere to live; it should look and feel welcoming, and perform every function you need it to in order to keep you comfortable, inspired, safe and content. Life can be stressful and challenging, and without the safe haven of home to relax and unwind in, it would be almost unbearable for many of us.

With this in mind, it’s important to try and make your home everything you want it to be, and this includes making it look attractive and welcoming from the outside, and stylish and functional on the inside. If your home isn’t performing well on either count, then it could be time to make some renovations, but how do you decide whether to start with the exterior, or interior?

Below are a few questions to answer when trying to decide whether to begin renovating the inside or outside of your home:

Is your home becoming unsafe?

Older properties may develop cracks in the walls, or the roof may begin to leak, for example. If the exterior of your home is in need of repair, then it makes sense from a safety perspective, to begin with an exterior renovation.

Do you want to sell your home or rent it out?

If so, then there may be both exterior and interior renovating work to be done. Buyers will almost always prefer to buy a property that doesn’t need a lot of work doing to it, and which is structurally safe and sound. Not only that, but first impressions do count, and what your property looks like from the outside can sway their opinion.

If the space inside your home is outdated, cramped or dingy, then renovating it to make it more stylish, comfortable and functional is going to appeal more to both buyers and renters.

Does your home feel like home?

While this type of feeling may be hard to describe in words, it’s one that we’re all familiar with, and when a home feels like a home, it can make coming back to it at the end of a busy or stressful day, hugely comforting. If your home doesn’t provide you with any comfort from an interior perspective, or you’re embarrassed to invite friends and family over, then it could be time to think about renovating the interior first, and making it feel more homely.

Still undecided?

If both the exterior and interior of your home are in need of some TLC, then whichever one you prioritize may come down to your budget. Renovations can be big or small, complex or straightforward, and it may be that you can afford to make some changes both inside and out.

The best way to decide is to sit down and make a list of what’s driving you crazy in your home, and what kind of renovation work would bring you the most benefit according to your funds. You can also talk things over with a local construction company, who will be well versed on the subject and can advise you from both a practical and financial standpoint.