8 DIY Upgrades That Instantly Devalue a House
Homeowners love to put their personal stamp on their space. It feels good to make a house your own. But not every do-it-yourself project adds value. In fact, some DIY upgrades can actually lower your home’s worth. If you’re considering selling or simply want to protect your investment, it’s wise to be aware of which changes can backfire. Here are eight common DIY upgrades that can instantly devalue a house—and what you should do instead.
1. Overly Personalized Paint Colors
Painting is one of the easiest ways to refresh a room. But bold, unusual colors can turn off buyers. Neon green, deep purple, or bright orange might fit your style, but most people want a blank canvas. When buyers see wild colors, they see extra work. They start thinking about the time and money it will take to repaint. Neutral colors, such as white, gray, or beige, appeal to a broader audience and make spaces appear larger. If you want to add color, use it in accents, such as pillows or artwork. This way, you keep your home’s value up and make it easier to sell.
2. DIY Flooring That Looks Unprofessional
Flooring is a big part of a home’s value. DIY jobs can go wrong fast. Uneven tiles, peeling laminate, or poorly installed carpet stand out. These mistakes make a house look cheap. Bad flooring can also cause safety issues, like tripping hazards. If you’re not experienced, it’s better to hire a pro. Quality flooring pays off when it’s time to sell. And if you do it yourself, take your time and follow instructions closely. Don’t cut corners. A sloppy floor job is one of the fastest ways to devalue a house.
3. Garage Conversions Without Permits
Turning a garage into a bedroom, gym, or office sounds like a good idea. But if you don’t get the right permits, you could be in trouble. Unpermitted work can cause problems when you sell. Lenders and buyers want to see that all changes are legal and safe. A garage conversion can also take away valuable parking or storage space, which many buyers want. If you’re set on converting your garage, check local rules and get the right permits. Otherwise, you risk lowering your home’s value and facing fines.
4. Removing Closets for More Space
Closet space is a big selling point. Some homeowners remove closets to make rooms feel bigger or to create a home office. But most buyers want storage. A bedroom without a closet might not even count as a bedroom in some places. This can negatively impact your home’s value and make it more challenging to sell. If you need more space, consider exploring other ways to declutter and organize. Keep closets in bedrooms, and add storage elsewhere if needed.
5. Cheap Kitchen Updates
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and buyers pay close attention to it. DIY kitchen upgrades can go wrong if you use cheap materials or skip important steps. Peel-and-stick countertops, painted-over cabinets without proper prep, or mismatched hardware can make the kitchen look worse, not better. These shortcuts don’t last and can make buyers question the quality of the whole house. If you’re updating your kitchen, focus on small, quality improvements. Replace old hardware, add a backsplash, or update lighting. For bigger changes, save up and do it right.
6. Removing a Bathtub
Many homeowners want a big, modern shower. But removing the only bathtub in the house can be a mistake. Families with young kids, or people who like to soak, want a tub. If your home only has showers, you limit your pool of buyers. This can lower your home’s value. If you want a walk-in shower, try to keep at least one tub in the house. This way, you appeal to more buyers and protect your investment. The National Association of Home Builders notes that bathtubs remain a top feature for many buyers.
7. Over-the-Top Landscaping
Curb appeal matters, but too much landscaping can be a problem. Elaborate gardens, ponds, or custom hardscaping can scare off buyers who don’t want the upkeep. High-maintenance yards can also be expensive to maintain. Simple, tidy landscaping is best. Stick to easy-care plants and clean lines. If you want to add features, make sure they’re easy to remove or maintain. This keeps your home appealing to the widest range of buyers and helps hold its value.
8. DIY Plumbing and Electrical Work
Trying to save money by doing your own plumbing or electrical work can backfire. Mistakes in these areas can cause big problems, from leaks to fires. Unpermitted or unsafe work can also make it hard to sell your house. Home inspectors will spot these issues, and buyers may walk away. Always hire licensed professionals for plumbing and electrical jobs. It’s safer, and it protects your home’s value. The National Fire Protection Association reports that faulty wiring is a leading cause of house fires.
Protecting Your Home’s Value Starts with Smart Choices
DIY projects can be rewarding, but not every upgrade is a good idea. Some changes can instantly devalue a house and make it harder to sell. Before you start a project, think about how it will affect your home’s value and appeal. Focus on quality, safety, and broad appeal. When in doubt, consult a professional or do your research. Protecting your investment is always worth the extra effort.
What DIY upgrades have you seen that can actually harm a home’s value? Share your stories or opinions in the comments.
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