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Writer's pictureLillian Derevitsky

Renovations That Don't Pay Off: Making Informed Choices for Your Home's Resale Value

Updated: Feb 10



Embarking on home renovations is an exciting journey, but not every upgrade ensures a positive return on investment when the time comes to sell. In this blog, we'll delve into common home updates that might not provide the optimal return in terms of resale value. By grasping these considerations, homeowners can make informed choices about where to strategically invest their renovation budget when preparing their homes for the market.




Over-the-Top Luxury Upgrades: While a touch of luxury can enhance your living space, going overboard with high-end materials and features may not translate into a resale value home renovations. Potential buyers might not be willing to pay a premium for ultra-luxurious finishes that cater to a specific taste. It's essential to strike a balance between quality and universal appeal.



white kitchen
Clean, well maintained home may translate into a higher resale value

A well-executed staging, on the other hand, fosters an emotional connection with potential buyers and yields a more favorable return on investment.




Hardwood Floor Consideration: When contemplating resale value home renovations, one aspect that might not be worth the investment is installing new hardwood flooring. While hardwood is a timeless and elegant material, the return on this investment might not be as significant as other renovations, such as painting, for example.



man installing hardwood floor
Refinishing or installing hardwood floors may not be a wise investment if your primary goal is to sell the house

However, if you have hardwood floors hidden beneath carpeting, it's a different story. Unveiling and showcasing the original hardwood floor can be a cost-effective and visually appealing way to enhance your home's charm. When well-maintained, can contribute positively to the overall aesthetic and resale value of your property.




In-Ground Pools: As enticing as a backyard pool may sound, the reality is that they often don't offer a substantial return on investment in terms of resale value home renovations. Maintenance costs, safety concerns, and limited usability in certain climates can make potential buyers hesitant. Moreover, some buyers may view pools as a liability rather than an asset, impacting the pool's perceived value.



Wood deck around the pool
As enticing as a backyard pool may sound, the reality is that they often don't offer a substantial return on investment


Extensive Landscaping Overhauls: While well-maintained landscaping can boost curb appeal, elaborate garden redesigns may not recoup their full cost in resale value home renovations. Potential buyers might appreciate a manicured lawn, but intricate features like expensive water features, exotic plants, or complex hardscaping may not provide a proportional increase in home value.



Pot with flowers
Well-maintained landscaping can boost curb appeal!


Roof Replacement: Another significant factor to consider when contemplating home renovations with resale value in mind is replacing the roof. While a new roof can be a compelling selling point, the decision to replace it should be based on its current state. A well-maintained and visually appealing roof enhances curb appeal and assures potential buyers that the property is structurally sound.



stone exterior
Addressing any minor repairs or maintenance issues might be a more cost-effective solution then full replacement .

However, if your roof has several years of life left and is in good condition, a full replacement may not be necessary. Addressing any minor repairs or maintenance issues might be a more cost-effective solution.




Driveway Replacement: In addition to the roof, the condition of your driveway plays a role in a potential buyer's first impression. Cracks, potholes, or an overall worn appearance can detract from your home's curb appeal. While a complete driveway overhaul comes with pricy tag, it might not be necessary. Investing in repairs or resurfacing can positively impact the overall presentation of your property.



House with black driway
Investing in repairs or resurfacing can positively impact


Highly Customized or Too Trendy Designs: Personalizing your space is enjoyable, but overly customized or excessively trendy designs might not appeal to the broader market in terms of resale value home renovations.



Colorful modern interior
Overly customized or excessively trendy designs might not appeal to the broader market.

Bold color schemes, unconventional layouts, or niche design choices can limit your home's attractiveness to potential buyers, potentially leading to a longer time on the market.




Conversion of Garage Space: Converting a garage into a gym, office, or extra living space might seem like a practical idea, but it's a renovation that often doesn't pay off. Many homebuyers prioritize functional garage space for parking or storage.  Repurposing this area may limit your pool of potential buyers and affect resale value.


attached garage in the modern home
Many homebuyers prioritize functional garage space for parking or storage


DIY or Shoddy Workmanship: While do-it-yourself projects can be rewarding, poorly executed renovations can detract from your home's value. Botched installations, shoddy workmanship, or non-professional finishes may turn off potential buyers, leading to lower offers and negotiation for additional repairs.



green ceiling
Poorly executed renovations can detract from your home's value



Making informed choices about home updates is crucial for maximizing your property's resale value. While certain renovations may not offer a direct financial return, they can still enhance your living experience. Striking a balance between personal enjoyment and potential resale value is key. Consulting with us , and considering market trends in your area can help guide your decision-making process, ensuring that your home renovations align with both your preferences and the broader market expectations.





smiling woman is sitting on red chair.
















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