Home Improvements That Add Little Value

If your house isn't brand new, you probably have a list of improvements you'd like to make. Renovating your home can increase its usability, coziness, and aesthetic appeal. And if you ever decide to sell the property, all of these criteria are critical. While some renovations are worth your time and money, some aren't, and if you decide to sell your property, you may be dismayed to realize that you won't recoup your investment. There is nothing wrong with making your ideal home a reality. But you have to be aware of the home improvements that do not add value.

Upgrades on utilities

You can't ignore the maintenance that comes with owning a home. It is critical to upkeep the boiler, plumbing, and electrical wiring in a home. You should invest some money in repairs, especially if they require to help you out. However, upgrades of these systems do not add value. They only keep it at the average comp. It's better to save your money and do something else, like getting a new coat of paint, if the systems in your house are already in good working order.

 Massive Landscaping Projects

 If you go overboard with landscaping, you'll waste your money and lower the value of your home. Spending on exotic plants, flowers, and trees will not add more value to your house. Instead, aim to remodel your backyard on a budget and find cheap ideas to spruce it up, as that's all you need. For example, you can lay down sod to make your lawn look lush and beautiful. Add some splashes of color with simple decorations, or paint your fence. These small details will surely add value to your property and attract potential buyers.

Lighting

When you're selling a house, you might think that it's okay to splurge out on things such as lights. After all, when you're preparing your house for sale , you're most likely doing it according to your own perception of what the buyer might want. And you're right to think about lighting! Buyers want homes with lots of light, especially if it comes from windows that face the sun. However, they will not pay for your pricey lighting enhancements. There is no need to spend large sums of money on fancy lighting fixtures that will not increase the value of your home. Replace expensive chandeliers and high-tech lights with more affordable options- pricier isn't always better!

Garage conversions

It can be tempting to upgrade the garage into an additional useable room, such as an office or another living area. In most cases, however, this isn't a worthy investment. Adding a room at the expense of a garage isn't something everyone wants to do. It might also be a huge undertaking. The number of other renovations you will have to do will be stressful enough. And what you want to do is make home renovation simpler, not more complex. You should find ways to ease the process with more straightforward and affordable touch-ups. Garage conversions are costly and lengthy home improvement projects that do not add significant value.

Incorporating a sunroom

Most of us love the spring season and the sunshine it brings. And if you're someone who likes building a sunroom might seem like a good idea. However, adding a sunroom won't be worth it in most cases. A sunroom addition is one of the projects with the most negligible influence on resale value. An aesthetic sunroom can help you attract buyers, but it's just one of those home improvements that do not add value. Instead of building one, brighten your walls and remove any drapes or curtains. This way, you will brighten up your home without an expensive sunroom construction. Not to mention how much time and energy you will manage to save by forgoing this time-consuming renovation project.

New floors

New floors can be pricey, and buyers may not like your material of choice. If you have wood flooring, have them sanded and coated instead of refinishing them. If your tiles are cracked, and you need to replace them, play it safe. Remember that your taste won't necessarily match the buyer's taste. So it's best to go with a neutral pattern without any flashy colors.

Wall-to-wall carpeting

Even though new carpeting is still a selling point in real estate listings, homebuyers may be put off by the prospect of having all of their rooms covered in it. Due to its ability to trap allergies and the chemicals used to manufacture it, carpeting is becoming less popular among families with children. Excessive carpeting in your home might lower the value of your property. Most buyers nowadays prefer the shine of hardwood floors. That being said, restoring or installing hardwood flooring is almost always preferable.

A swimming pool

Swimming pools are among the most common home improvement projects that do not add value. Pools are costly to install but no less expensive to maintain! A pool may deter prospective purchasers due to the additional costs and the safety hazards it presents. Buyers with pets or children, or older couples looking to retire will rarely go for a pool for these reasons. It's better to use the backyard space as a blank canvas for your potential buyers. Some of them will want space for their dogs or children to play. Others might wish to create a barbecue area to hang out in. Nevertheless, they will imagine the kind of space they want, which might increase their will to buy.

Final words

Some things you might think are desirable when, in reality, they do not add value to your home. We hope this guide has helped you identify those home improvements that do not add value. Think about that when you want to sell your house and before making any home improvements. If you plan to sell your home soon, it's best to keep it neutral. Do a minor touch-up here and there rather than splurge on unnecessary features. Happy remodeling!

Paul Burrowes, CRS, CCEC, SFR, NHCP, LHC, REALTOR® Licensed REALTOR® with over 15 years of experience and expertise. Commits to being on time and transparent. Acts as your consultant to ensure you make the best decisions to fit your transaction at every step in the process. Negotiates towards a low stress, win-win outcome. Handles all the details for you, ensuring the hundreds of steps in your real estate transaction go smoothly. Proudly serving Silicon Valley, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties! | DRE# 01955563 | (831) 295-5130 | paul@burrowes.com |