As a homeowner, adding elements to your home that can increase your property’s value is the ultimate goal. From upgrading the kitchen to creating an entertainment space, there are many ways you can increase your property value. However, some home improvements don’t offer a return on investment (ROI). If you plan on selling your home in the future, it’s best to avoid certain remodeling projects. Here are five home renovations that can decrease your property value.
A Swimming Pool
A swimming pool won’t add much value to your home unless you live in a tropical or warm climate year-round—even if it’s an infinity or above-ground pool. Swimming pools require significant maintenance and come with an insurance bill, so many homebuyers don’t want to deal with this amenity. If you’re thinking about selling your home, save the pool blueprints for another property.
Built-In Electronics
Overly personalized home renovations can decrease your property value. Built-in electronics in your home can become dated and expensive to upkeep. Imagine someone trying to use a built-in TV set with a VCR from the 2000s in 2022—it’s unpractical. Refrain from adding built-ins and instead add a projector or TV that provides a movie theater feel.
Adding Too Much Carpet
While carpet is a popular choice for first-time homebuyers with families, carpeting your entire home is a no-go. Carpets wear down over time and quickly show damage. However, homebuyers are more likely to pay more for hardwood flooring than carpet. Hardwood and laminate floors make cleaning easy, and you won’t have to worry about stains or bare patches on the floor.
Over-the-Top Landscaping
Although landscaping and outdoor entertainment can increase your property value, overdoing it can cost you. Homeowners who opt for complex landscaping in the name of curb appeal often regret it when it turns away potential buyers. Having over-the-top landscaping may dissuade homebuyers because they don’t want to maintain it.
Instead, keep your yard simple to maintain, but don’t be afraid to add a few low-maintenance plants. You can also use water-permeable landscape fabrics to keep the yard looking fresh and extravagant.
An Excessive Amount of Wallpaper
Wallpaper has advanced through the years and is more popular than ever. This decorative element offers many colors, patterns, textures, and finishes, but you should avoid overdoing it. Wallpaper is very personal and may not appeal to most buyers. Removing it is time-consuming and messy, especially as the quality deteriorates over time. So, instead, you should paint the walls or limit wallpaper usage to select walls.
5 Home Renovations with the Highest ROI
What Home Renovations Have the Best Resale Value?