5 Home Renovation Trends That Will Cost You When It’s Time to Sell
Thinking about updating your home? Renovation trends can be tempting, especially when you see them everywhere online. But not every popular upgrade will help you when it’s time to sell. In fact, some home renovation trends can lower your home’s value or make it harder to find a buyer. If you want to protect your investment, it’s essential to know which trends to avoid. Here’s what you need to know before you start your next project.
1. Over-the-Top Luxury Bathrooms
A spa-like bathroom sounds great, but going overboard can backfire. Features like oversized soaking tubs, high-end steam showers, and custom vanities can cost a lot. But most buyers don’t want to pay extra for these upgrades. Many people prefer a simple, functional bathroom that’s easy to clean and maintain. If you spend too much on luxury finishes, you may not recoup that investment when you sell.
In some cases, buyers see these features as unnecessary or even a hassle. Stick to classic updates like new tile, fresh paint, and modern fixtures. These changes appeal to a wider audience and are more cost-effective.
2. Removing Bedrooms for Bigger Spaces
Open floor plans are popular, but turning a bedroom into a larger living area can hurt your home’s value. The number of bedrooms is a key factor for buyers and appraisers. If you take away a bedroom, you limit your pool of buyers. Families, in particular, look for homes with enough bedrooms for everyone. Even if you love the extra space, most buyers want more rooms, not fewer. If you need more living space, look for ways to reconfigure without losing a bedroom. For example, you can use furniture or room dividers to create flexible spaces. Maintaining the original bedroom count helps preserve your home’s value.
3. Highly Personalized Design Choices
Bold colors, unique wallpaper, and custom-built-ins can make your home feel special. But these personal touches often turn off buyers. Most people want a home they can picture themselves living in, not one that feels like someone else’s vision. Highly personalized renovations can make it harder for buyers to see the home’s potential. You might love a bright red kitchen or a wall of built-in bookshelves, but buyers may see these as projects they’ll need to undo. Neutral colors and simple designs appeal to more people and make your home easier to sell. If you want to add personality, use decor that’s easy to change.
4. Converting the Garage to Living Space
Turning your garage into a gym, office, or extra bedroom might seem like a smart way to add space. But most buyers want a garage for parking and storage. In many areas, a garage is a must-have, especially in places with harsh weather. Removing it can make your home less attractive and lower its value. Even if you don’t use your garage, future buyers probably will. If you need more living space, consider finishing a basement or attic instead. These changes add usable space without taking away something buyers expect.
5. High-End Outdoor Features
Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and elaborate landscaping are trendy, but they don’t always add value. These upgrades can be expensive to install and maintain. Many buyers see them as extra work or worry about upkeep costs. In some climates, outdoor features get little use, making them less appealing. Simple, well-maintained yards are more attractive to most buyers. To enhance your outdoor space, focus on the basics, such as a clean patio, lush grass, and a few well-chosen plants. These updates are affordable and make your home look inviting. Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report shows that basic landscaping and curb appeal projects offer better returns than luxury outdoor features.
Think Before You Renovate: Protect Your Home’s Value
Home renovation trends come and go, but your home’s value is long-term. Before you start a project, ask yourself if it will appeal to most buyers or just to you. The best renovations are the ones that make your home more functional, comfortable, and attractive to a wide range of people. Avoiding costly trends like luxury bathrooms, removing bedrooms, or converting your garage can save you money and stress when it’s time to sell. Focus on updates that stand the test of time and keep your home’s value strong. Remember, simple changes often have the biggest impact.
What home renovation trend have you seen that you think hurts resale value? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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