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The Perth property market of 2026 has reached a tipping point. With the median house price in the Perth metro area now exceeding $1.1 million, the dream of “trading up” to a bigger home is becoming a financial hurdle that many families are choosing to avoid.
At Sertorio Homes, we’ve spent over 45 years helping homeowners in suburbs from Subiaco and Cottesloe to Stirling, and Padbury realise that they don’t need a new address to get a new life. As specialists in high-impact second-storey additions and luxury extensions, we know that in 2026, the smartest investment isn’t a new mortgage, it’s the home you already own.
1. The Maths: Why Moving Costs You $100k+ in “Wasted” Equity
In 2026, moving house in Western Australia carries a massive hidden tax. If you sell your current home for $900,000 to buy a larger one for $1.3 million, you aren’t just paying the $400k difference.
The 2026 “Exit and Entry” Costs:
- WA Stamp Duty: On a $1.3M property, expect to pay approximately $58,000–$62,000.
- Agent Commissions: Selling your $900k home will cost you roughly $22,500 in fees.
- Marketing & Moving: Between styling your home for sale and hiring removalists, add another $8,000.
The Sertorio Perspective: That is nearly $100,000 gone before you’ve even bought a single stick of furniture. By choosing a custom home extension with Sertorio Homes, that $100k is reinvested directly into your property’s value. Instead of paying the government, you’re paying for a parents’ retreat, a modernised kitchen, or an award-winning alfresco.
2. Specialised Services for Perth’s Iconic Suburbs
Every suburb in Perth has a unique architectural “soul,” and at Sertorio Homes, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all designs. We tailor our services to the specific character of your neighbourhood:
- Character Home Extensions: We are experts at “seamless stitching”, adding modern living spaces to heritage homes in Mount Hawthorn, Menora, and Mount Lawley without losing the original ornate cornices or Jarrah flooring.
- Second Storey Additions: If you love your block in Attadale, Winthrop, or Carine but need more bedrooms, we build up. This allows you to capture city or ocean views while keeping your backyard for the kids.
- Bespoke Granny Flats: With the 2026 R-Code updates, we help Perth families build 1, 2, or 3-bedroom detached homes (Ancillary Dwellings) for multi-generational living or rental income.
- Full Home Renovations: From 1970s transformations in Padbury to luxury modernisations in Dalkeith, we handle everything from design to practical completion.
3. The 2026 “Smart Home” Standard
At Sertorio Homes, our 2026 projects are built for the future of Western Australia. Every extension we design targets 7-star energy efficiency as standard. We integrate:
- Advanced Glazing: To combat the harsh Perth summer heat.
- Smart Layouts: Using 3D-imaging technology to ensure your new spaces maximise the “Freo Doctor” breeze.
- Structural Integrity: With 45 years of experience, we know how to assess the foundations of older WA homes to ensure they can safely support a luxury second level.
4. Why the “Volume Builder” Model is No Longer Enough
You may have heard of the “price hike” stories hitting the Perth news. Because Sertorio Homes is a family-run business with a trusted network of long-term trades, we provide a level of stability that volume builders simply cannot match.
- Fixed-Price Contracts: We offer peace of mind with no hidden “surprises” mid-build.
- Direct Access: You aren’t just a job number. Our Managing Director, Bruce Sertorio, and our expert project managers are on the ground ensuring your vision is met.
- Award-Winning Craftsmanship: We are proud HIA and MBA award winners & finalists, recognised for our excellence in renovations and additions.
Frequently Asked Questions (2026 Perth Edition)
What areas does Sertorio Homes serve?
We specialise in the Perth Metro area and surrounding suburbs, with a high concentration of projects in the Northern Suburbs (Stirling, Carine, Mindarie), Western Suburbs (Subiaco, Nedlands, Cottesloe), and Southern Suburbs (Attadale, Kardinya, South Perth).
Can I stay in my home during the renovation?
Yes! Many of our clients in suburbs like Craigie and Leeming choose to stay in their homes while we build. We work around your family’s needs to ensure minimal disruption during your transformation.
How do I know if my house can support a second storey?
90% of existing homes will support second storey. Our team uses 3D architectural imaging to show you exactly how the new level will integrate with your existing home before we even apply for council permits.
Conclusion: Don’t Move, Transform.
In 2026, your home is your most valuable asset. Don’t let $100,000 of your hard-earned equity disappear into moving costs. Whether you’re looking to add an ensuite in Beechboro or a luxury family room and kitchen in Beldon, Sertorio Homes is the name Perth trusts for quality, honesty, and 45 years of local expertise.
Ready to see your home’s potential in 3D?
About Sertorio Homes
Established in 1979, Sertorio Homes is a family-owned and operated custom builder specialising in second-storey additions, luxury extensions, and character home restorations across the Perth metropolitan area. Led by Managing Director Bruce Sertorio, our team combines four decades of local building knowledge with cutting-edge 3D architectural imaging. From the initial feasibility study to the final handover, we provide fixed-price contracts and personalised site management to ensure your Perth home transformation is delivered with excellence.