Home improvement projects can be a great way to upgrade your living space, but not all projects are created equal. Some home improvement projects may cost you more than they’re worth in terms of time and money. Before taking on any project, it’s essential to research and make sure it will add value to your home. We’ve listed six home improvement projects that don’t add value.
Projects That Don’t Add Value: Installing a Pool
While pools can be fun and provide entertainment for your family, they don’t necessarily add value to your home. Pools are expensive to install and maintain, so you won’t get back what you put in if you decide to sell down the line. If your area isn’t known for year-round sun and warm weather, a swimming pool will likely cost more than you’ll get back in value.
Unnecessary Bathroom Upgrades
If your bathroom needs a refresh, give it some TLC. However, don’t waste money on unnecessary upgrades such as heated floors or fancy fixtures that won’t add to the value of your home. Stick with simple updates, like repainting walls and replacing old fixtures, to get the most bang for your buck.
Too Much Landscaping
Landscaping can be a great way to add curb appeal and make your home look more inviting, but it doesn’t always add value. Installing expensive plants and trees may seem like a good idea at first, but it won’t pay off in the long run if it’s too much work to maintain. Stick with low-maintenance landscaping that requires minimal upkeep.
Garage Conversions are Projects That Don’t Add Value
Garage conversions can be tempting, as they add additional living space to your home. However, if you’re planning on selling anytime soon, it’s best to avoid this type of conversion. Buyers tend to prefer having a garage for storage and parking, so converting it into a bedroom or office may cost you more than it’s worth.
Over-Remodeling
It’s understandable to want your home to look modern and up-to-date, but be careful not to go overboard with remodeling projects. If you plan on selling soon, don’t make changes that are too drastic or too personalized, as they may not appeal to potential buyers. Stick with timeless updates that won’t look dated in a few years.
Projects That Don’t Add Value: Too Many Add-Ons
Adding on to your home is great if you need additional space, but it can also be expensive. Before you start building, make sure the addition will add value to your home, such as increasing the square footage or adding a bedroom. Otherwise, you may spend more than you think without seeing any return on your investment.
Keep these tips in mind to ensure your home improvement projects will add value to your home. Doing some research beforehand can go a long way in avoiding costly mistakes. Now that you know what not to do, you can get started on the projects that will truly add value to your home.
Cowan Inspections Group offers home inspections to Park City and the surrounding areas of Utah. Contact us to schedule an appointment.