Investing in home renovations can seem like a great way to boost your property value, but certain upgrades don’t always pay off.
According to Forbes, the average home renovation costs around $41,600, but some changes can deter buyers and hurt resale value.
Here are seven home features that real estate experts advise against, Yahoo Finance reported.
1. Converting Your Garage to Living Space
Turning a garage into a den, office, or game room might seem appealing, but most buyers prefer it as a place to park. Garage conversions can cost around $18,000 and may lower your home’s appeal, especially in areas with limited parking.
2. Adding an ADU (Alternative Dwelling Unit)
While adding a separate living unit might generate rental income, it’s an expensive upgrade, with an average cost of $180,000. ADUs don’t guarantee a strong return on investment, as many buyers may not want the additional structure or rental property responsibilities.
3. Specialty Rooms
Transforming rooms into home gyms, libraries, or wine cellars can seem luxurious, but buyers often prefer flexible spaces they can personalize. Specialty rooms can limit buyer interest and add costs with little return on investment.
4. Over-the-Top Landscaping
Elaborate landscaping and custom hardscapes may look beautiful but can be costly to maintain. Potential buyers might be put off by high-maintenance yards and prefer simpler, manageable landscaping.
5. High-End Kitchens and Bathrooms
While updates in these areas are popular, going too upscale can hurt your chances with buyers who don’t want to pay a premium for features they may not need. Keeping renovations modest ensures they appeal to a wider range of buyers.
6. Swimming Pools
Pools can be divisive, as some buyers see them as high maintenance or a safety risk for young children. Installation costs range from $30,000 to $50,000, and many buyers may not want to shoulder the upkeep.
7. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
Carpeting throughout a home is less desirable than wood or laminate floors, which are easier to clean and maintain. Buyers often prefer hard flooring, and carpeting may turn away those looking for durability and ease of upkeep.
When investing in home improvements, prioritize features that add value without limiting buyer interest.
This article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.